The San Francisco 49ers have continued to solidify their core roster by extending linebacker Fred Warner’s contract, completing a series of significant offseason deals. Following lucrative extensions for quarterback Brock Purdy and tight end George Kittle, Warner’s new agreement marks the final major contract to address.
The 49ers and Warner agreed to a three-year, $63 million extension, securing his services through the 2029 season. This move reinforces the team’s commitment to maintaining a strong defensive core alongside their offensive investments.
Warner’s Extension Adds Security, Eases Cap Burden, Avoids Past Contract Drama Issues
Warner’s extension restores him to the top of the league’s off-ball linebacker pay scale at $21 million per year, with $56 million guaranteed. His previous five-year, $95 million contract had two years remaining but lacked guaranteed money. The restructured deal adds security for Warner while helping the team strategically manage its salary cap.
Under the prior deal, Warner would have carried high cap hits in 2025 and 2026—$29.17 million and $26.71 million, respectively, which are expected to drop significantly due to the new terms.
Fred Warner (NFL)Unlike more complex negotiations in recent years with stars like Nick Bosa and Trent Williams, Warner’s extension process was smooth and proactive. Because he still had two years left on his original contract, the deal mainly involved reallocating money, adding guarantees, and easing cap pressures. Warner expressed confidence earlier in the offseason that a deal would get done, reflecting his trust in the team’s approach and making this extension less contentious than others in recent franchise history.
Warner’s Toughness Shines Through Injury, Ensuring Defensive Stability for Upcoming Season
Despite dealing with a fractured ankle during the final 13 games of the 2024 season, Warner maintained elite performance levels, earning his fourth first-team All-Pro nod. He played through the injury with the help of painkillers but did not require surgery and reported feeling fully healthy during the start of the offseason program. His continued excellence and durability further justify the team’s investment, affirming his status as a cornerstone of the defense.
With extensions for Warner, Purdy, and Kittle completed before organized team activities (OTAs), the 49ers enter the preseason with a rare sense of contractual stability. This contrasts with previous offseasons, where key players missed significant time due to ongoing negotiations. After a disappointing 6-11 finish in 2024, the team is now positioned to focus fully on football operations and prepare for a rebound campaign without the distraction of high-profile contract holdouts.
