San Francisco 49ers linebacker Patrick Willis confirms retirement
Tuesday 10 March 2015 20:15, UK
The San Francisco 49ers have confirmed the retirement of linebacker Patrick Willis, who spent his entire eight-year professional career with the franchise.
Having featured in three consecutive NFC championship games from 2011 to 2013 and selected for the Pro Bowl in each of his first seven years, the 30-year-old was widely expected to call time on his NFL career having struggled to recover from toe surgery last season.
"I gave this game everything I had," Willis said. "I've had the most amazing eight years of my life being a part of this organization.
"I know I no longer have it in these feet to go out there and give you guys that 'Wow.' It's my health first. I am leaving this with closure. This is not the end. It's just the beginning."
49ers CEO Jed York said in a statement: "On behalf of the entire San Francisco 49ers organization, my family, and our Faithful fans, I would like to thank Patrick for everything he has brought to this team and our community.
"Some of the greatest memories in the history of our franchise have come from his passion, dedication and sacrifice
"Patrick epitomizes everything you could ever want in a San Francisco 49er. What he brought to this team goes much further than his athletic abilities. His leadership and infectious love for the game helped propel this team.
"I consider myself very lucky to have grown up around some of the greatest players in the history of this franchise, and Patrick has certainly secured his place among that elite group of men. As a member of our family, Patrick holds a special place in our hearts, and we look forward to supporting him as he moves on from his playing career."
The 49ers selected Willis with the 11th pick of the first round in the 2007 NFL Draft.
He played in 112 games, all of them as a 49ers starter, over eight seasons and made 1,225 tackles, 20.5 quarterback sacks, eight interceptions including two returned for touchdowns, 16 forced fumbles, five fumble recoveries and 53 pass deflections.
