49ers coach reveals what sets Fred Warner apart as the NFL’s top linebacker

Fred Warner finished the 2023 season as Pro Football Focus' highest-graded linebacker, demonstrating his ability to excel in every aspect of the game. The San Francisco 49ers benefit from Warner's rare combination of physicality and instinct, making him indispensable on the field.

Several younger players aspire to be what Warner is for the 49ers—a dominant defensive presence and a leader who sets the standard for excellence both on and off the field.

"What makes Fred unique is he's a machine," defensive coordinator Nick Sorensen told reporters after Wednesday's practice. "I think he's the best linebacker in the NFL, and he does it every single day. He's so consistent. He's a leader, he plays fast, he plays physical, he attacks the ball, he's a good tackler, he's good in coverage. I mean, to me, he's complete."


Sorensen isn't just talking about Warner's performance in games against opposing offenses. He witnesses the same mentality and intensity during practices when no one is keeping score.

"He practices like that every single day," Sorensen continued. "That's why I referenced that he's kind of like a machine. It's just an every-single-day thing with him, and he's trained, and it's very serious."

Sorensen added that, in his experience, the players who excel are highly dedicated, have a clear plan, and work the hardest. Warner clearly embodies those qualities.

Warner finished last season with 132 tackles, six tackles for a loss, five quarterback hits, a career-high four interceptions, 2.5 sacks, 11 passes defensed, and four forced fumbles, earning both Pro Bowl and All-Pro honors for the third time in his career.

While these accolades are impressive, Warner has loftier aspirations.

"My number one goal in this league is to win a championship, do it for this fan base, this organization, bring us back to where we need to be," Warner said last week. "And I know, as long as I'm just being the best version of myself, I'm going to continue to try and help give us the best chance to do that."

Warner emphasized that the 49ers have everything needed to reach their ultimate goal. The team just has to put in the work, as talent alone will only get you so far.

Warner and the 49ers' Super Bowl run begins on September 9, when they open the regular season at home against the New York Jets.