Breaking Down The 49ers roster: Linebackers

My complete break down of the San Francisco 49ers roster is almost complete, here it continues with a look at a linebacker crew that is undoubtedly one of the best in the NFL.

The linebackers proved yet again to be the heart and soul of the 49ers' defence, with NaVorro Bowman in particular enjoying a magnificent season.

Bowman's campaign ended, undeservedly, in a horrendous knee ligament injury sustained in the NFC Championship game loss to the Seattle Seahawks, and negating the impact of his potential absence could be a significant problem for the 49ers.

That devastating blow came at the end of a year that had seen Bowman record 145 tackles, five sacks, two interceptions and four forced fumbles and score the final touchdown at Candlestick Park.

It remains to be seen whether Bowman will be healthy for the start of the 2014 campaign, and San Francisco will need a contingency plan should he be unable to play by the time the season opener comes around.

Nick Moody and Michael Wilhoite will likely feature in that contingency plan. Wilhoite is an exclusive rights free agent in the off-season but should be retained following a pair of strong performances in his two starts in 2013.

Meanwhile, Moody - a former safety converted to linebacker - played predominantly on special teams in his rookie season with the 49ers.

Moody and Wilhoite's experience is limited, however, San Francisco are unlikely to take a linebacker in the early rounds of the draft, meaning that the duo could well get the chance to split time and attempt to fill the void left by Bowman.

The issue of how to replace Bowman is the only real concern plaguing the 49ers' superb linebacking corps heading into the off-season.

Patrick Willis enjoyed another strong year in 2013, a season in which Ahmad Brooks arguably established himself as one of the top outside linebackers in the NFL.

Aldon Smith overcame his well-documented off-the-field problems to make an impact in the latter stages of the campaign and appears set to receive a contract extension in the near future.

Dan Skuta and Corey Lemonier also made positive contributions in rotation and, with all of the Niners' linebackers poised to stay with the team in 2014, this is a group that should be among the best in the league again next season.