Fred Warner signs $63 million extension, becomes highest-paid off-ball linebacker in NFL

Fred Warner signed a three-year, $63 million extension with the San Francisco 49ers, becoming the highest-paid off-ball linebacker in NFL history.
The deal includes more than $56 million guaranteed and keeps Warner under contract through the 2029 season.

General manager John Lynch praised Warner's leadership and impact, stating, "Fred's leadership is exemplary and his approach to his craft is contagious. Fred sets the tone for our entire team with the consistency, speed and physicality with which he plays."

Warner, drafted in the third round in 2021, has developed into one of the NFL's top defensive players. He has earned first-team All-Pro honors in four of the past five seasons, including the last three consecutively.

Despite playing much of last season with a broken ankle bone, Warner recorded 131 tackles, five tackles for loss, two interceptions, seven passes defensed, and four forced fumbles.

He is widely regarded as the best middle linebacker in football and a defining figure of the modern MLB role. Analysts note he "runs the defense," is the best coverage linebacker in football, and perhaps in history.

This extension reflects Warner's elite status and critical role in the 49ers' defense moving forward.

San Francisco 49ers linebacker Fred Warner signed a three-year, $63 million extension, making him the highest-paid off-ball linebacker in NFL history. The deal includes over $56 million guaranteed and keeps Warner with the team through 2029, recognizing his leadership and elite defensive performance.