After two grueling years of contract disputes during training camp sessions, the San Francisco 49ers have decided to play it safe this term. Locking in their star players early, they’re now in the clear for avoiding major contract disputes. The most recent news came as they signed All-Pro Fred Warner for a three-year extension, a decision that rocked the football world.
The $63 million deal not only gives the star linebacker a solid deal until the end of the 2029 season, but it also makes him the highest-paid off-ball linebacker in NFL history. The deal provides a guaranteed $56 million and is Warner’s third extension with the 49ers. This extension ensures San Francisco has a star-studded lineup when it’s time to head onto the field.
Fred Warner wasn’t the only player to receive an early-season extension. The 49ers signed a five-year extension with quarterback Brock Purdy for $265 million and a four-year deal with George Kittle, valued at $76.4 million. Definitely something that goes in the team’s benefit, considering its rocky history with contract disputes and player inconsistencies.
The All-Pro linebacker’s previous extension was in 2021 for five years at $95 million, but the $21 million per year puts him over the top. He beats out Smith’s $20 million annual income by a slight margin to become the highest-paid off-ball linebacker.
Is Fred Warner Worth It?
It’s true, it’s a lot of money for one player. The question a lot of you are asking: Is he worth it? Well, his stats back him up. Fred Warner has been a first-team All-Pro since the 2022 season, all through ‘23 and ‘24. His defensive capabilities make for an impenetrable wall in the 49ers’ backline.
With four first-team All-Pro selections, Warner only ranks below Tyreek Hill and Bobby Wagner, who have five and six selections, respectively. That’s enough about rankings, though, let’s delve into his post-match statistics.
Warner had 131 tackles, five tackles for loss, two interceptions, seven passes defensed, and four forced fumbles last season. This all took place with him playing on a broken ankle most of the season. His past match history doesn’t disappoint either. 10 sacks, 10 interceptions, 15 forced fumbles, six fumble recoveries, 36 tackles for loss, and 53 passes defensed is something very few players can boast about.
Regardless of his ankle injury, Fred Warner has only missed a single match in the past seven seasons, a feat rarely seen. He’s one of only three active players in the league who have been able to get at least 10 sacks. So, to answer the burning question, yes, Fred Warner is worth every penny.
