Fred Warner Injury Update: 49ers Star Out for Season After Dislocated Ankle vs. Buccaneers

San Francisco 49ers linebacker Fred Warner suffered a season-ending injury during Sunday’s 30-19 loss to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Head coach Kyle Shanahan confirmed after the game that Warner dislocated his ankle — and likely fractured it — marking a devastating blow to the 49ers’ defense.

The injury occurred in the first quarter when Warner was rolled up on during a 10-yard run by Buccaneers running back Rachaad White. Warner was carted off the field and did not return. Following the game, Shanahan revealed that Warner will undergo surgery and miss the remainder of the 2025 NFL season.

Kyle Shanahan Confirms Season-Ending Injury for Fred Warner

Shanahan did not sugarcoat the severity of Warner’s injury during his postgame remarks. “Dislocated, think it broke, too. So, will end up having surgery,” Shanahan told reporters. “It’s big. I mean, any time you lose one of your best players, also a huge leader, so obviously a huge blow.”

Warner, 27, has been the heart and soul of San Francisco’s defense since being drafted in 2018. He’s a three-time First-Team All-Pro and widely regarded as one of the best linebackers in the NFL. Losing him midway through the season leaves a major void in both leadership and on-field production for the 4-2 49ers.

This injury adds to San Francisco’s growing list of star players sidelined in 2025. Defensive end Nick Bosa was previously ruled out for the year, and now Warner joins him, forcing the team to rely on depth players to keep their postseason hopes alive. Shanahan expressed confidence in backup Tatum Bethune, who is expected to take over Warner’s role moving forward. “He’s got a good foundation. Got a lot of faith in Tatum. He’s the next man up and he’s going to have to do it throughout the year,” Shanahan added.

What Warner’s Absence Means for the 49ers’ Season

Warner’s injury could dramatically alter the 49ers’ defensive identity. Through six weeks, San Francisco ranked among the top five in total defense, with Warner anchoring the unit’s communication and coverage schemes. Without him, the team may struggle against both the run and the pass — areas where his instincts and leadership have been vital.

The timing of the injury is particularly damaging. The 49ers are chasing another deep playoff run after falling short in the NFC Championship Game last season. At 4-2, they remain firmly in contention, but the loss of Warner could shift the balance of power in the NFC. Key matchups against conference rivals loom in the coming weeks, and how the defense adapts without its captain will likely define San Francisco’s postseason fate.

For now, Warner faces a long recovery process following surgery. While the team has not released an official timeline, most players dealing with a dislocated and broken ankle require several months of rehab — making a return this season virtually impossible.

Fred Warner’s injury update is a devastating setback for San Francisco’s playoff aspirations. As one of the NFL’s elite linebackers, his absence leaves a massive hole on defense — and the 49ers’ ability to overcome it will determine how their 2025 campaign unfolds.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: What happened to Fred Warner?

Fred Warner dislocated his ankle during the first quarter of the 49ers’ Week 6 loss to the Buccaneers. Head coach Kyle Shanahan confirmed he will have surgery and miss the rest of the season.

Q2: How long will Fred Warner be out?

Warner is expected to miss the remainder of the 2025 NFL season. Recovery from a dislocated and broken ankle typically takes several months.

Q3: Who will replace Fred Warner in the 49ers’ defense?

Backup linebacker Tatum Bethune is expected to step into Warner’s role for the rest of the season, according to Kyle Shanahan.

Q4: How does Fred Warner’s injury affect the 49ers?

His absence significantly weakens San Francisco’s defense and leadership. The 49ers must rely on depth players and adjust their defensive schemes to stay competitive.

Q5: Has Fred Warner suffered major injuries before?

Warner has been relatively durable throughout his career, missing very few games since his 2018 debut. This is his most serious injury to date.