49ers star linebacker might walk away from $7.8 million in the prime of his career
Early Monday morning, ProFootball Talk's Mike Florio hinted that the 49ers had some surprising news coming later in the day, though he didn't reveal any details.
Willis, 30, has had a decorated career with the 49ers since being drafted 11th in the first round in 2007. He was named a First-Team All-Pro as a rookie and is a seven-time Pro Bowl player.
In 2014, Willis played only six games before missing the rest of the season with a toe injury.
According to spotrac.com, Willis would have earned more than $7 million in salary this season with about $800,000 in bonuses. His salary is not guaranteed for 2016, but if he were to keep playing, he would earn almost $8 million in salary with almost $2 million in bonuses.
Perhaps Willis' recent injuries have something to due with his unexpected retirement.
We'll update as more details emerge.