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Ex-49ers Patrick Willis, Justin Smith get their Hall of Fame chance

YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio – Bronzed busts of the game’s all-time greats shine inside the Pro Football Hall of Fame, located an hour drive past peaceful farms southwest of here.

Which 49ers are heading their next — for induction, that is?

The Hall of Fame on Thursday announced the Class of 2020 modern-era nominees, and former 49ers Patrick Willis and Justin Smith are among them in their first year of eligibility.

Other ex-49ers nominated include Jeff Garcia, Ricky Watters, Brent Jones, Bryant Young, Merton Hanks, Tim McDonald, Kevin Gogan, Isaac Bruce, Takeo Spikes, David Akers and Gary Anderson.