SAN FRANCISCO – A person with knowledge of the injury says San Francisco 49ers linebacker Patrick Willis will miss the remainder of the season and require surgery for a strained left big toe.
The person spoke on condition of anonymity Tuesday because the team hadn't announced details of Willis' status or any updates on what's next.
A seven-time Pro Bowler, Willis has missed the past three games for San Francisco (5-4) after injuring the toe in the third quarter at St. Louis on Oct. 13. He had 34 tackles and an interception this season for the Niners, who have reached the NFC championship game in each of the past three seasons.
This is a big loss to one of the NFL's leading defenses, though the 49ers are expected to have Aldon Smith back Sunday at the Giants.
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