Borland has decided to retire because of concerns about the long-term effects of repetitive head trauma, ESPN reports. "I just honestly want to do what's best for my health," Borland said. "From what I've researched and what I've experienced, I don't think it's worth the risk." Borland is just 24 and hasn't had major head trauma in the past few years, so he decided to retire solely based on concerns about his long-term health. He says he had just two diagnosed concussions, both before college, although he says he suffered a undiagnosed concussion last year in training camp that got him concerned over his health. Borland's retirement is a major blow to the 49ers' defense that saw Patrick Willis also retire last week.

With Patrick Willis' retirement, Borland is in line to start for the 49ers at middle linebacker in 2015. Prior to Willis' retirement, there was concern regarding whether or not the rookie sensation would see regular playing time in 2015. Now that he is guaranteed a starting spot, Borland should be considered a lock (barring injury) for 100-plus tackles this season, making him an intriguing option in IDP leagues.

Borland (ankle) was placed on season-ending IR on Saturday, NFL.com reports. Borland's ankle injury will cost him the last two games of his rookie season, but it was still a smashing success of a debut for the third-round pick, who showed the ability to pile up tackles at a rate faster than any other linebacker in the league. Unfortunately for his 2015 IDP prospects, NaVorro Bowman (knee) and Patrick Willis (toe) figure to reestablish themselves as starters in the offseason, health permitting.

Borland (ankle) is out fr Sunday's game against San Diego. Borland's absence leaves the 49ers incredibly thin at inside linebacker, especially with Michael Wilhoite (hip) questionable. Nick Moody and Desmond Bishop are next in line.

Borland (ankle) didn't take part in practice Thursday, the 49ers' official site reports. With two absences from practice in his back pocket this week, Borland's availability for Saturday's game against the Chargers is certainly in question. Alas, IDP owners still involved in the fantasy postseason should continue to watch his status closely, as he's averaged 12.9 tackles per game over the last seven contests.

Defensive coordinator Vic Fangio said Tuesday that "it would be a stretch right now" to expect Borland to play again this season. Borland has tallied an astounding 102 tackles (79 solo) in eight games since Week 7, but his impressive rookie season may be over. Nick Moody is the favorite to replace Borland in the starting lineup, though Desmond Bishop -- who was just signed Tuesday -- could see some snaps in his place as well.

Borland collected six tackles (three solo) before having to exit Sunday's loss to the Seahawks with an apparent ankle injury. Borland suffered the injury in the second half and tried to play through it, but was visibly limited and had to remove himself from the game. The severity of the injury is unknown, so it is tough to say whether or not Borland will be able to suit up this week against the Chargers.

Borland collected 14 tackles (12 solo) in Sunday's loss to the Raiders. Borland continues to rack up the tackles at a tremendous clip. He didn't slow up after winning NFC Defensive Rookie of the Month in November, turning in another double-digit tackle performance to start the month of December. He doesn't get to the quarterback often, but owners aren't complaining so long as Borland continues to pile up tackles.

Borland racked up 16 tackles (all solo) in Thursday's loss to the Seahawks. Borland was the lone bright spot for a 49ers team that failed to show up for its Thanksgiving matchup with the Seahawks. He led the team in tackles for the fifth consecutive week, and it was his fourth double-digit tackle performance through six starts this season. He has been an IDP machine since entering the starting lineup and should continue to be rolled out there on a weekly basis.

Borland tallied eight tackles (six solo) in Sunday's win over the Redskins. Borland wasn't as impressive as he was last week when he won NFC's Defensive Player of the Week honors, but he still put together a solid effort. With a matchup against the run-heavy Seahawks on Thanksgiving, Borland should be a must-start in IDP leagues.