This is an archived article that was published on sltrib.com in 2016, and information in the article may be outdated. It is provided only for personal research purposes and may not be reprinted.
Santa Clara, Calif. • Linebacker Michael Wilhoite signed a one-year deal with the San Francisco 49ers on Wednesday, nearly two months after the restricted free agent was tendered a contract.
He started all 12 games he played last season and 16 in 2014. The 29-year-old Wilhoite took on a greater role after five-time All-Pro Patrick Willis retired in March 2015 followed by fellow linebacker Chris Borland.
Wilhoite had 85 tackles, an interception and a pass defensed last season for the 49ers, who went 5-11 and missed the playoffs for a second straight year. He will play this season for new coach Chip Kelly, who replaced Jim Tomsula in January.