49ers’ Patrick Willis announces retirement after 8 seasons

San Francisco 49ers inside linebacker Patrick Willis reluctantly walked away from football on Tuesday, announcing his retirement from the NFL at age 30.

The seven-time Pro Bowl selection said foot injuries forced him to end his career after eight productive seasons.

“If I had anything left in these feet — you’ve all seen me, I broke my hand on a Sunday, had surgery on a Monday and played with a cast on Thursday — but it’s something about these feet,” Willis said. “When you don’t have feet, for me, that’s what has made me who I am.”

Willis remains passionate about the game, but he was concerned about his long-term well-being.

“Football has been everything to me and it’s provided an amazing platform to me,” Willis said. “It’s my health first.”

Willis was named to the Pro Bowl in seven of his eight seasons since he was drafted 11th overall in 2007. He was Defensive Rookie of the Year and a six-time All-Pro.

“On behalf of the entire San Francisco 49ers organization, my family, and our Faithful fans, I would like to thank Patrick for everything he has brought to this team and our community,” 49ers CEO Jed York said in a prepared statement. “Some of the greatest memories in the history of our franchise have come from his passion, dedication and sacrifice.

“Patrick epitomizes everything you could ever want in a San Francisco 49er. What he brought to this team goes much further than his athletic abilities. His leadership and infectious love for the game helped propel this team.”

Willis had 950 career tackles with 20 1/2 sacks and eight interceptions.

Willis ended the 2014 season on injured reserve and rookie Chris Borland outperformed expectations, delivering 107 tackles and two interceptions. Borland will be in the starting lineup alongside NaVorro Bowman in 2015.

“I’ve given this game everything I had,” Willis said.