San Francisco 49ers "Patrick Willis could blaze path towards new defensive identity"

After ending last year on a positive note (a big win in Denver that eliminated the Broncos from the playoffs), the 49ers headed into the offseason with a ton of cap room and a strong desire to add an impact player on defense. The team aggressively pursued free-agent All-Pro linebacker Adalius Thomas, Steelers 36 Bettis Jersey
a versatile player who had a history with Niners head coach Mike Nolan (Thomas played under Nolan during the coach's tenure in Baltimore). Despite this connection, Thomas chose to sign with the New England Patriots. This failed attempt to land a marquee free-agent linebacker may actually have been a blessing in disguise. San Francisco lost out on the Thomas sweepstakes, but that paved the way for a brilliant new addition to the team. With the 11th overall pick of April's draft, the 49ers helped carve themselves a new defensive identity. When the Niners chose Ole Miss linebacker Patrick Willis, they secured an athletic, explosive playmaker who has great leadership skills and an unquestioned desire to succeed in the NFL. Nolan made it clear that Willis will be instrumental in the transition to a 3-4 defense. "I expect him to make an impact right away. In the third down area, I would expect him to be a starter right away," Nolan said. While at Mississippi, Willis achieved many accolades. He was the 2006 Butkus Award winner -- an honor issued to the nation's top linebacker. He led the highly competitive SEC in tackles. Off the field, Willis is active in community service and is often commended for his strong character. Willis will surely benefit from the tutelage of assistant head coach and Hall of Fame LB Mike Singletary, whose guidance will offset Willis' inexperience with the 3-4 (he played 4-3 in college). Willis should develop quickly because of his high football IQ, his speed and his ability to make instinctive plays. In addition to his amazing athletic abilities, Willis has a cool confidence about him. When asked by a reporter if he expects to start, Willis said, "Yes, sir; there is no doubt in my mind." With an aging Derek Smith parked in the middle of the team's defense, truer words have never been spoken. The 49ers are expected to challenge for a division title this season. The signing of cornerback Nate Clements (eight years, $80 million) and the acquisition of 4 Brett Favre Purple jersey
receiver Darrell Jackson are nice moves, but grabbing Willis will go down as the highlight of the 49ers' 2006 offseason. He's the type of player who has perennial Pro Bowler written all over him and can be the quarterback of the defense for the next decade. Securing the admirable work ethic and astounding athletic abilities of a guy like Willis is just one indication that 49ers are headed in the right direction. Keep track of Patrick Willis and the rest of the San Francisco 49ers