Report: San Francisco 49ers Re-Sign OLB Ahmad Brooks to 6-Year Deal

NFL.com's Jason La Canfora is reporting that the San Francisco 49ers and free-agent outside linebacker Ahmad Brooks have inked a six-year deal that will solidify their front seven for years to come.

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Congrats to #49ers OLB Ahmad Brooks who just signed a six-year contract extension that keeps him in red & gold through 2017

— Bob Lange (@49ersPR) February 28, 2012"

 

 

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I am surprised at this news, to say the least. I had previously stated that I thought the 49ers might let Brooks test the free-agency market due to the fact I thought he might be too expensive.

Apparently, the 49ers feel Brooks is worth $7 million per year. It's hard to say he isn't. 

Brooks has improved every single year he has worn a 49ers jersey. He is rock-solid in run support, setting the edge to allow the secondary to fill the gaps on stretch plays.

He is also a streaky pass-rusher who has been known to strip the ball on occasion, and in his three years as an outside linebacker for the 49ers, Brooks has collected 18 sacks and six forced fumbles. 

With the recent news from the 49ers front office that Aldon Smith is expected to start at outside linebacker, the 49ers will once again feature the meanest, toughest, strongest and fastest front seven in the NFL.

This news also changes my perspective on San Francisco's draft needs. I had previously thought the team could be looking to draft an outside linebacker in the second round.

Brooks' return gives the 49ers more flexibility to pursue another position of need unless a player too good to pass up is still on the board when they pick. 

I have nothing but good things to say about this latest move by Trent Baalke and the 49ers front office.

Retaining Brooks will only strengthen an already dominant defense, and the 49ers can now focus on re-signing the rest of their own free agents and picking the best players available in the 2012 NFL draft.

Follow @JesseReed78