Patrick Willis shocked the NFL world when he announced his retirement from professional football in March. He turned heads again on Wednesday, when his next professional endeavor was revealed.

[REWIND: Patrick Willis announced retirement]

Willis, 30, is the new executive vice president of strategic partnerships for the media, entertainment, and sports sectors for Open Source Storage after buying into the Silicon Valley-based technology company.

The company released the following press release:

Open Source (News - Alert) Storage™, a Silicon Valley-based technology company, appointed Patrick Willis, EVP, Strategic Partnerships for the media, entertainment, and sports sectors. His appointment comes as Open Source Storage increases its focus on disruptive technologies.

This marks a change for Mr. Willis as he transitions from a National Football League (NFL) career to leading disruptive technology partnerships for Open Source Storage. Mr. Willis said, "I have always had an interest in technology and innovation, and similar to my love for football, felt a passion for open source. I want to be a part of history in the making as I am fascinated with Eren Niazi's brilliant visions: pat, present and future. This amazing opportunity allows me to connect my sports passion with the next chapter in my life, in business and technology."

Mr. Willis is an owner in Open Source Storage.

Eren Niazi, Founder & CEO of Open Source Storage said, "Patrick brings significant value to our executive team. His appointment reflects an emphasis on expanding open source technologies as a disruptive force in the media, entertainment, and sports sectors. We are fortunate to have someone with Patrick's deep understanding of the sports industry and passion for open source technologies to help drive our firm's technology growth."

Open Source Storage is the original visionary and creator of the open source storage movement. Founded in 2001 by Eren Niazi with his innovation of an enterprise world run by open source storage. Open Source Systems specializes in disruptive technology to handle large software deployments and reduce your technology costs by up to 50%.

Open Source Storage has been implemented in Fortune 500 companies, federal agencies and startups around the world. Governments worldwide have mandated use of open source technologies.

Willis played eight NFL seasons for the 49ers and was named to the Pro Bowl in each of his first seven seasons. The five-time All-Pro's 732 career tackles ranks first in 49ers history, 11 more than Hall-of-Famer Ronnie Lott's 721.