NaVorro Bowman extension: Pairing with Patrick Willis great news for 49ers

With the San Francisco 49ers signing linebacker NaVorro Bowman to a five-year, $45.25 million contract extension on Tuesday, the team has a pair of All-Pro linebackers under contract through 2016 and all four of its starting linebackers under contract through 2015.

SB Nation's own David Fucillo of Niners Nation is ecstatic.

This is of course is phenomenal news, as it means the 49ers will have their pair of All-Pro linebackers sticking together for years to come. Last I checked, Patrick Willis is signed through 2016. The team has already re-worked his deal at least once to clear up cap room next year. He took a big boost in pay this year so the team could have a decreased cap number next season.

Bowman is signed through the 2018 season, Willis through 2016, Ahmad Brooks is under contract through 2017 after inking a six-year deal in February, and NFL sack leader Aldon Smith could be next in line for a healthy extension to his rookie contract.

Thanks to their stellar linebacking corps, the 49ers defense is second-best in the league in total yards allowed, surrendering just 278.4 yards per game and ranks second in passing yards allowed and fourth in rushing yards allowed.