Fred Warner is making waves even on his very first day back from injury.
This week, the San Francisco 49ers activated the practice window for their star linebacker, allowing him to participate in walkthroughs and get back on the field as he works to recover from a dislocated and fractured ankle. However, head coach Kyle Shanahan has indicated that it’s unlikely Warner will return this week. The 49ers are hopeful he can make it back if they progress to the NFC Championship Game, which was initially seen as the earliest possible timeline for his return.
Ultimately, the decision regarding his return will rest with the medical team, but Warner is mentally prepared and excited to rejoin his teammates on the field. "I’m ready whenever they’re ready," Warner expressed during an appearance on The Ryen Russillo Show. "There are some T's that need to be crossed and I's dotted. If it were solely my choice, I’d be out there this weekend, but that’s not how it works. I must ensure that all necessary checks are completed, and everyone must give me the green light before I can step back onto the field. But I’m pushing hard. I’m back into full football drills, so we’ll just have to wait and see."
Despite his absence on the game schedule, Warner's influence is already being felt throughout the team. Defensive coordinator Robert Saleh spoke to the media on Wednesday, noting that Warner has already begun to inject 'pure energy' into practices, even during walkthroughs.
"Just pure energy," Saleh remarked about Warner’s presence. "Fred is the ultimate energy-giver, and having him out there is fantastic. While yesterday’s practice was more subdued, today’s higher tempo will certainly be exciting to watch with him running around again."
Warner's teammates are also catching on to the shift in dynamics thanks to his return. Wide receiver Demarcus Robinson shared that the team's energy noticeably rises with Warner back on the field. "You can definitely feel his presence more," Robinson commented on Tuesday, according to NBC Sports Bay Area. "He brings great energy, especially in the stadium, getting the crowd hyped before games. Having him here with us during practice, seeing him move around, really boosts our spirits."
Defensive tackle Kalia Davis echoed this sentiment, admitting he felt an inexplicable change upon seeing Warner back for the first time. "I honestly didn’t notice him until later on, but I could sense something different. I felt an aura. Then I turned around and thought, ‘Wait, he’s wearing a jersey?’ It’s undeniably uplifting, for sure."
While Warner may not be participating in the field this week, his return has already sparked a renewed sense of energy within the 49ers' facility. This excitement is sure to amplify when the team intensifies their training sessions on Wednesday.
