Fred Warner trusts new defensive coordinator Raheem Morris and praises rookie Upton Stout and lineman Mykel Williams, highlighting the 49ers' resilient culture.
The San Francisco 49ers have been busy on the media circuit this week, with several players making appearances to discuss the state of the team ahead of the offseason. Linebacker Fred Warner sat down with SB Nation’s Jeanna Kelly and offered thoughtful insight into the 49ers’ culture, the arrival of new defensive coordinator Raheem Morris, and the development of some of San Francisco’s key contributors.
Thoughts on Raheem Morris
While Warner didn’t dive into scheme specifics, his confidence in the hire was clear. Warner emphasized trust in the organization’s process and pointed to the continuity of leadership at the top as a major reason for optimism moving forward.
For Warner, the presence of Kyle Shanahan remains the stabilizing force, and any coordinator brought in under that umbrella is set up to succeed.
Lessons learned while sidelined
Warner explained that his time away from the field gave him a different perspective on the team’s resilience.
Being removed from the weekly grind allowed him to see just how strong the 49ers’ culture truly is. According to Warner, it’s one thing to believe in standards and accountability when everything is going well but it’s another thing entirely when injuries pile up and players are asked to step into significant roles with little margin for error.
Despite those challenges, Warner said the team continued to find ways to win, reinforcing his belief that San Francisco has one of the strongest cultures in the NFL.
A rookie who stood out
When asked which defensive player impressed him most during his absence, Warner didn’t hesitate.
Rookie nickel cornerback Upton Stout earned high praise from the All-Pro linebacker. Warner highlighted Stout’s competitiveness, toughness, and football character, noting that while Stout may not be the biggest player on the field, his effort and approach stand out every snap.
Warner described Stout as someone who plays the game the right way and made it clear he loves having him as a teammate..
Confidence in Mykel Williams
Warner also shared his thoughts on defensive lineman Mykel Williams, explaining why 49ers fans should feel encouraged about his future.
Williams’ background at Georgia helped prepare him for the NFL, particularly in terms of technique and physicality. Warner pointed out Williams’ strength at the point of attack and versatility along the defensive line, noting that his run defense is already ahead of schedule.
As for rushing the passer, Warner believes that part of Williams’ game will continue to develop, making him a well-rounded and impactful player moving forward.
On the substitution debate
Asked about the ongoing conversation surrounding substitutions and injuries, Warner took a measured approach.
He acknowledged the topic has become popular due to the number of injuries the team dealt with at key positions, but stopped short of placing blame or drawing firm conclusions. Warner suggested that there isn’t enough evidence yet to make a definitive call.
Rehab update
On a personal note, Warner shared that his rehab is going extremely well.
He said he’s feeling like himself again after a difficult injury that occurred at an unfortunate moment. Thankfully, the surgery went smoothly, and Warner credited the medical staff for getting him back on track. His tone made it clear that he’s confident in where he’s at physically as he looks ahead.
For the 49ers, Warner’s comments reinforced that the 49ers organization has strong leadership, belief from the locker room, and optimism about both the present and the future of the defense.