SAN FRANCISCO (AP) - The San Francisco 49ers signed free agent safety and special teams standout C.J. Spillman to a three-year contract extension Tuesday that takes him through the 2014 season, another move to keep the secondary intact for the reigning NFC West champions.
"I think we're going to try and keep it going," Spillman told the team's official website, referring to the playmaking special teams unit. "It brought a different light to the game and from what I've seen, people were really into those plays."
Spillman, whose deal is worth a reported $6 million with $1.8 million in guaranteed money, has become a reliable tackler on special teams since the 49ers claimed him off waivers on Oct. 12, 2010. Last year, Spillman tied for second in the NFL with 14 special teams tackles. He is part of a secondary also featuring safety Dashon Goldson, who received the franchise tag Friday.
"C.J. is a high-energy, productive player with a strong team-first mentality who is still developing," 49ers general manager Trent Baalke said. "We are pleased to come to terms with C.J. for another three years, and look forward to his continued contributions to our organization, both on and off the field."
San Francisco made the formal announcement Tuesday regarding Spillman, who tweeted Feb. 24 that he was staying put with the Niners after agreeing to terms on the new deal.
"Well Ladies and Gents looks as if I'm back in the Bay! Can't wait to get back to work and get going," he said then.
Safety Donte Whitner signed a three-year contract before last season with the 49ers. He was another key presence during San Francisco's 13-3 season under first-year coach Jim Harbaugh, who helped the organization end an eight-year playoff drought and stretch without a winning record. The Niners lost in overtime of the NFC championship game to the eventual Super Bowl champion New York Giants.
