It's hard to find an active linebacker with the skillset and accolades to match the San Francisco 49ers' Fred Warner.
With four First-Team All-Pro appearances in his career, there's a case to be made that Warner is the best defensive player in the league.
On Monday, the 49ers showed just how much they believe in the former BYU star, signing him to 3-year, $63 million contract extension, as reported by ESPN's Adam Schefter.
This deal makes Warner the highest-paid linebacker in the NFL.
ESPN Sources: Four-time All-Pro LB Fred Warner and the 49ers reached agreement on a three-year, $63 million contract extension that includes over $56 million in guaranteed money that makes him the NFL’s highest-paid linebacker. It marks the second time in his seven-year NFL… pic.twitter.com/L4GHK7h4Vy
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) May 19, 2025
This deal is the latest in a series of extensions by the 49ers. Last Friday, San Francisco signed third-year quarterback Brock Purdy to a five-year, $265 million extension. Earlier in the offseason, George Kittle agreed to stay in The Bay when he signed a 4-year, $76.4 million contract extension.
While the 49ers finished with a disappointing 6-11 record after an injury- riddled season, Warner was one of the lone bright spots for the team.
Warner tallied 131 tackles and snagged two interceptions, one of which he returned for a touchdown. He earned his third straight First-Team All-Pro.
This move is important for a team that wants to stabilize its defense on its climb back to the top of the NFC.