For those of you who know me, I love this game of football. When I played, I started as an offensive lineman. Then, I moved to the defensive side of the ball and I didn’t look back. I’ll forever be a defensive guy. Anytime I can talk about a defender, I’ll always be happy. In the NFC West, there’s many stars playing defense. Bobby Wagner is one for the Seattle Seahawks. In Los Angeles, both Jalen Ramsey and Aaron Donald are stars for the Rams. Staying in California, the 49ers have quite a few big names such as Nick Bosa and Arik Armstead. In the last year or two, one guy has truly stood out to me on the San Fran defense. His name is Fred Warner. Today, the 49ers hav rewarded him with a nice contract extension. A five-year deal worth $95 million and $40 million guaranteed.
Fred has become one of the three best inside linebackers in the game today. To be a great linebacker, you must have that motor. His is always revved up. Fred has the natural ability to get to the football. Whether he’s coming in on a blitz, shedding blocks or going over the top of defenders, he will find his way to the ball by any means. Not only has Fred shown he can get to the football, he can also strip the ball out of the opponent’s hands. His instincts stand out to me. He’s always aware, he knows where he needs to be to make that big play and if you don’t contain him, he’ll wreck your game plan offensively. Fred’s ability to get to the football also applies to his pass coverage. He can read coverages with the best of them and with that strong nose for the ball, he’ll come in for the interception. In college, Fred was an outside linebacker mainly like a nickel safety. He knows how to attack passing lanes. Fred does it all. He’s a true playmaker that does what he can to help his team.
In a few short seasons, Fred has become the heart and soul of this 49ers team. I still feel he’s one of the more underrated players in football today. I love the effort he plays with every week. He leaves everything all on the field. With this contract extension, he becomes the highest-paid inside linebacker in the NFL. I’m glad the 49ers extended him. He’s a big part of that defense.
