Introduction
Michael Wilhoite (born December 7, 1986) is an American football linebacker for the San Francisco 49ers of the National Football League (NFL). He played college football at Washburn University where he played six different positions, including linebacker and safety. He was originally signed as an undrafted free agent by the Omaha Nighthawks of the United Football League (UFL) in 2011.
Early years
Prior to playing in the NFL, his coaches would use him at other positions due to his athleticism, which also included quarterback in high school. He had played six different positions in total during his college career.
Professional career
Omaha Nighthawks
After going unselected in the 2011 NFL Draft, Wilhoite signed with the Omaha Nighthawks and spent the entire 2011 UFL season with them.
San Francisco 49ers
On December 14, 2011, Wilhoite was signed to the practice squad of the San Francisco 49ers.
He was waived for final roster cuts before the start of the 2012 season, but was signed back to the practice squad on September 1, 2012. After being on the practice squad for twelve weeks in 2012, he was promoted to the active roster. He finished with 11 tackles and made several key plays on special teams during the 49ers run to Super Bowl XLVII.
He then remained part of the 49ers active roster the next season.
Set to be a restricted free agent, Wilhoite was offered a tender by the 49ers on March 12, 2014. He signed his tender on April 21.
On March 8, 2016, 49ers decided to tenedered a one-year contact with Wilhoite.