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Lance Briggs to visit LB-needy San Francisco 49ers

The San Francisco 49ers continue the search to replenish their depleted linebacking corps.

Veteran Lance Briggs has a visit scheduled with the Niners on Monday, NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport reported on Saturday.

The 34-year-old spent his first 12 NFL years with the Chicago Bears helping anchor some dominant defenses in the Windy City, including a trip to Super Bowl XLI.

Briggs played just eight games in 2014 before being placed on injured reserve with a groin injury. Despite missing large chunks of the past two seasons, the linebacker told ESPN.com he can "still perform at an elite level" as he looks to continue his career.

The 49ers' linebacking unit went from a strength a year ago to one that is desperate for help after the retirements of Patrick Willis and Chris Borland. NaVorro Bowman is returning from an ACL injury and Michael Wilhoite is the only inside 'backer on the roster who started 16 games last season.

Briggs grew up in Elk Grove, California -- about two hours from the Niners' current home in Santa Clara -- and was a 49ers fan in his youth. The linebacker also opened a restaurant in Elk Grove last year.

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