San Francisco 49ers linebacker Patrick Willis to 'retire from the NFL'

San Francisco 49ers linebacker Patrick Willis is reportedly ready to announce his retirement from the NFL.

The 30-year-old has been an integral part of the 49ers' defense since arriving in the league as a first-round Draft pick in 2007, and has been a consistent fixture in the All-Pro teams, receiving five berths in his eight-year career.

Willis appeared in just six games during the 2014 campaign as he was hampered by a toe injury, which forced him onto his side's injured-reserve list after undergoing surgery.

However, the linebacker is poised to announce his retirement from the game on Tuesday for unknown reasons, despite previously stating that he wanted to remain in the NFL for another five years, according to reports.

Willis has recorded 950 tackles, 20.5 sacks and eight interceptions in his eight years in the league.