Justin Smith headed for surgery after worst game of the season

The 49ers DE Justin Smith had his worst game of the season on Sunday. (US Presswire)

The man known as “Cowboy” wasn't going to miss the Super Bowl.

But maybe Justin Smith should have sat out. Limited by a partially torn left triceps, the 49ers' defensive end had his worst game of the season, according to the analytical website Pro Football Focus. Smith finished with three tackles -- with no quarterback hurries, hits or sacks -- and was outplayed by Ravens left guard Kelechi Osemele, PFF said.

Now comes word, via CSNBayArea.com, that the 33-year-old Smith will undergo surgery this week and need three months of rehab.

The four-time Pro Bowler suffered the injury Dec. 16 against New England and missed the rest of the regular season. He returned for the playoffs wearing a brace on his left arm.

After Smith was hurt and stopped drawing extra attention, outside linebacker Aldon Smith stopped dominating. Aldon Smith had 19.5 sacks in the first 13 games but didn't get another until Sunday when he had a sack and a quarterback hit.

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