Lions sign ex-49ers LB Nick Bellore

The Detroit Lions have announced the signing of former San Francisco 49ers linebacker Nick Bellore.

Bellore was signed by the New York Jets as an undrafted free agent out of Central Michigan in 2011. He spent four seasons with the Jets where he appeared in all 64 games – primarily on special teams. Bellore led the Jets in special teams tackles in each of his first three seasons with the team.

In April of 2015, Bellore signed a two-year contract with the 49ers in the wake of the retirements of linebackers Patrick Willis and Chris Borland. Last season, he appeared in 14 games and started a career-high 10 games. During that time, he had 83 tackles, five passes defended, a sack, an interception, and a fumble recovery.

On December 19, Bellore was placed on injured reserve after suffering an elbow injury the day before against the Atlanta Falcons.