FILE - In this Aug. 7, 2012, file photo, San Francisco 49ers linebackers Aldon Smith (99) and Ahmad Brooks (55) reach for the ball during NFL football practice in Santa Clara, Calif. They are not only the biggest reason behind the 49ers' defensive success, they are a close bunch that has quickly become the new NFL standard for linebackers. Meet Patrick Willis, NaVorro Bowman, Aldon Smith and Ahmad Brooks. (AP Photo/Jeff Chiu, File)

FILE - In this Sept. 11, 2011 file photo, San Francisco 49ers linebackers Patrick Willis (52),backer NaVorro Bowman (53), and defensive tackle Ray McDonald (91) tackling Seattle Seahawks running back Marshawn Lynch (24) during the first quarter of an NFL football game in San Francisco. They are not only the biggest reason behind the 49ers' defensive success, they are a close bunch that has quickly become the new NFL standard for linebackers. Meet Patrick Willis, NaVorro Bowman, Aldon Smith and Ahmad Brooks. (AP Photo/Paul Sakuma, File)