Patrick Willis had surgery today.
And judging by the smile on his face, it was a successful one.
The 49ers linebacker had surgery on the toe problem that landed him on season-ending injured reserve.
“Surgery went well thank u all for the support and heartfelt wishes. Determined to get back on that field and be better than ever. Road back starts now! #alwaysbelieve,” he wrote on Instagram.
This has been an upside down year for the 49ers in many respects, and losing Willis will be tough.
Rookie replacement Chris Borland has played solidly, but things aren’t the same without their leader in the middle, as the 49ers scrap for a playoff berth.