SANTA CLARA, Calif. - The San Francisco 49ers signed two-time Pro Bowl linebacker Takeo Spikes on Sunday, hours after waiving former starter Brandon Moore.

The Washington County alum is expected to start alongside Patrick Willis, the NFL's reigning defensive rookie of the year, at strong inside linebacker in the team's 3-4 defense.

"It's going to be one of the strongest linebacking corps in the middle with him and Patrick," said defensive end Justin Smith, who teamed with Spikes for two seasons in Cincinnati.

"Great guy. As far as football goes, he's just a leader. He's got that quality about him. He knows his stuff. He pays attention to his film study. He's prepared. He's the type of guy you need on a defense. That's a plus."

Spikes spent 10 seasons with the Bengals, Buffalo Bills and Philadelphia Eagles. His season with the Eagles last year ended with a torn rotator cuff in the 14th game. He finished with 85 tackles, including 63 solo stops, and one sack.

Moore started 10 games in 2005 and 11 in 2006, when he led the team in tackles with 114 and sacks with 6½. He lost his starting job last year.

"I think the biggest thing is we've gotten better since then, from a personnel standpoint," 49ers coach Mike Nolan said of Moore's 2006 season. "Obviously (with) Patrick Willis inside, that exposes the guys next to (him) a lot."

Jeff Ulbrich started the 49ers' exhibition opener Friday night against the Oakland Raiders at inside linebacker next to Willis. Rookie Larry Grant is behind Ulbrich on the depth chart while Dontarrious Thomas, a free-agent pickup, is behind Willis.

Thomas had a team-leading eight tackles in his 49ers debut. He primarily played special teams with the Minnesota Vikings last year.

"I think it showed some glimpses of what I can do," Thomas said. "I'm still learning the defense. It was a solid game."