SANTA CLARA, Calif. — The San Francisco 49ers signed linebacker NaVorro Bowman to a four-year contract extension through the 2022 season Wednesday.

The 28-year-old Bowman missed the 2014 season after a devastating left knee injury during the NFC championship game, then returned last year and led the NFL with 154 total tackles. He also had 2 1/2 sacks and two passes defenced, earned first-team All-Pro honours and was a Pro Bowl selection.

"The support I've received from my family and friends throughout my life, especially through the adversity of the past few years, has meant so much to me," Bowman said in a statement released by the team. "I can't wait for the season to start and play in front of the best fans in the NFL."

The 6-foot, 242-pound linebacker was drafted in the third round in 2010 out of Penn State.

"Over the last six years, NaVorro has become a cornerstone of our organization and securing his future in the Bay Area was a priority for us," general manager Trent Baalke said.

___

AP NFL website: www.pro32.ap.org and www.twitter.com/AP_NFL