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Fred Warner

Fred Warner Player Profile

Summary

Fred Warner is widely regarded as one of the best linebackers in the NFL, known for his elite coverage ability, range, leadership, and football intelligence. Coming out of BYU, he was recognized for his versatility — often lining up as a hybrid linebacker/safety in college, giving him rare coverage instincts for his position. Since being drafted in the third round of the 2018 draft (pick 70), Warner has evolved into the cornerstone of the San Francisco 49ers defense and a consistent All-Pro performer.

Warner’s athleticism, quick processing, and communication skills make him a defensive quarterback, responsible for aligning the front seven and adjusting coverages. He’s one of the few linebackers who can match up effectively against tight ends, running backs, and even slot receivers in man coverage.

Strengths

  • Coverage Skills: Exceptional in both man and zone; frequently drops deep into coverage and reads quarterbacks like a safety. Ranked among the league’s top coverage linebackers every season since 2020.
    (Source: PFF)

  • Football IQ & Leadership: Recognized as the “voice” of San Francisco’s defense; quickly diagnoses plays and directs teammates pre-snap.
    (Source: NBC Sports Bay Area)

  • Range & Speed: Sideline-to-sideline pursuit ability with fluid hips and acceleration that allow him to close space rapidly.

  • Tackling & Angles: Reliable tackler who takes efficient pursuit angles and rarely misses open-field stops.

  • Durability: Has started nearly every game since entering the league — dependable and physically resilient.

  • Versatility: Comfortable blitzing, dropping in coverage, or playing downhill against the run — a true three-down linebacker.

Weaknesses

  • Shedding Blocks: At times struggles to disengage from larger offensive linemen at the second level when isolated.
    (Source: NFL.com Scouting Report)

  • Aggressiveness vs. Run Fakes: Occasionally overcommits to play-action or misdirection due to his aggressive instincts.

  • Limited Sack Production: While effective on blitzes, he’s not often used as a primary pass-rusher and thus doesn’t produce high sack totals.

  • Early Career Tackling Consistency: Early in his career (2018–2019), Warner occasionally took poor angles or missed tackles in space, though this has largely improved with experience

Fit & Outlook

Fred Warner has solidified himself as the premier off-ball linebacker in football, combining intelligence, athleticism, and leadership in a way few modern defenders can. His command of the 49ers’ defense and ability to neutralize both run and pass threats make him a perennial All-Pro candidate and the prototype for the new era of NFL linebackers.