Home / Sports / Key 49ers Defender Sidelined for Divisional Round
Key 49ers Defender Sidelined for Divisional Round
16 Jan
Summary
- Fred Warner's injury status uncertain for Seahawks game.
- 49ers opening practice window, not activating him yet.
- Warner's absence highlights team's ongoing injury struggles.
Linebacker Fred Warner, a cornerstone of the San Francisco 49ers' defense, has been ruled out for Saturday's divisional playoff game against the Seattle Seahawks. The team opted not to activate him from injured reserve, despite opening his practice window following an ankle injury sustained in Week 6. This decision means Warner, a four-time first-team All-Pro who had not missed a game in his previous seven seasons, will continue to be sidelined.
Warner's unavailability further compounds the 49ers' season-long battle with injuries, which has seen key players like Nick Bosa and George Kittle also miss significant time. The team has utilized a rotation of linebackers, including mid-season signee Eric Kendricks and rookie Nick Martin, to compensate for Warner's absence. This depth will be tested once again against a formidable Seahawks offense.
While Warner will not be available for the immediate playoff push against Seattle, his practice window's opening offers hope for his return in subsequent rounds, potentially for the NFC championship game or even the Super Bowl. The 49ers have 21 days to activate him, keeping the possibility of his crucial presence alive should they advance.
