The San Francisco 49ers may need Patrick Willis to be flexible with his inside linebacker position as they play the first part of the season without NaVorro Bowman.

The 49ers aren't sure who will take Bowman's spot in the starting lineup.

If Michael Wilhoite wins the job, Willis will switch to the "Mike" linebacker, but will remain as the "Jack" linebacker if Chris Borland starts.

“Honestly, I’ve always been a team player,” Willis said, via CSNBayArea.com. “Whatever is going to be best for the defense is whatever coach Vic [Fangio] decides. I’m going to play my very best at either/or. Right now, I’m preparing to play the ‘Mike,’ but if it happens I have to go back to ‘Jack,’ that’s where I’ve played these last three years, so I can hold it down there.”