The San Francisco 49ers have lost yet another defensive star to injury.
Inside linebacker Patrick Willis was forced from Monday's game versus the St. Louis Rams with a toe injury. He was ruled out for the night late in the third quarter. Willis was later spotted on the sideline in street clothes with a walking boot on his left foot, per The Sacramento Bee.
After the game, Willis blamed the injury on the turf and said he would know the severity of the injury Tuesday, per the Bay Area News Group.
First-round rookie defensive back Jimmie Ward suffered a quadriceps injury Monday night and was also ruled out, as was Mike Iupati (concussion). Wide receiver Stevie Johnson took a knee to his glute on the onside kick, but said the injury isn't serious.
Entering the game, Willis was one of a handful of NFL linebackers to have played every snap this season. Rookie Chris Borland has come on to replace the five-time All-Pro.
With fellow All-Pros NaVorro Bowman and Aldon Smith already out, a lengthy Willis absence would be a big blow to a Vic Fangio defense also playing without cornerback Tramaine Brock and nose tackle Glenn Dorsey.
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