Fred Warner is having a phenomenal season. The San Francisco 49ers linebacker is among the best defensive players in the NFL, showcasing significant playmaking ability through the team's first two games.
Warner has already recorded 12 tackles, including one for a loss, along with a sack, an interception, two passes defensed, and three forced fumbles. This weekend, Los Angeles Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford knows he must be cautious with his ball placement as Warner roams the middle of the field.
During a press conference this week, Stafford was asked to sum up the 49ers' star linebacker in one word.
"One word? I don't know. There's a bunch," Stafford responded, per a team transcript. "He is a really good player. He's obviously a really intelligent football player, understands what's going on around him, how he fits into the scheme of their defense [and] what offenses are trying to do to try to attack their defense.
"He's a relentless competitor. You see him flying around all over the place, making plays. He is hunting up a special route and then knocks the ball out last week on the one-yard line. He's relentless [and] continues after the ball no matter what the situation is. [He's a] big-time competitor and a really good linebacker."
Warner's teammate, defensive end Nick Bosa, acknowledges that the linebacker elevates the entire defense by setting a high standard for preparation and performance.
"It kind of just makes us want to do better ourselves because you know if you do your job and get it turned back or whatever the situation is, he's going to be there," Bosa said. "So it's definitely motivation. If we could all play closer to how he's playing, then we'll be just all right."
When asked about his impressive 2024 campaign, Warner remained modest.
"I have yet to see anybody, especially myself, play a perfect game," Warner said. "There's plays I still do want back. ... It's just about trying to play as hard as I can and making the plays for my teammates whenever they are there."
