Patrick Willis out for season

— -- San Francisco 49ers linebacker Patrick Willis will miss the remainder of the season and require surgery for a strained left big toe, according to multiple reports Tuesday.

A seven-time Pro Bowler, Willis has missed the past three games for San Francisco (5-4) after injuring the toe in the third quarter at St. Louis on Oct. 13. He had 34 tackles and an interception this season for the Niners, who have reached the NFC championship game in each of the past three seasons.

This is a big loss to one of the NFL's leading defenses, though the 49ers are expected to have Aldon Smith back Sunday at the Giants.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.