San Francisco 49ers linebacker Fred Warner has returned to practice after a severe ankle injury sidelined him since October, raising hopes he could play in Saturday's divisional round matchup against the Seattle Seahawks. Warner, limited in back-to-back sessions, expressed optimism about his recovery while emphasizing a cautious approach. His potential availability bolsters a defense hit by injuries, including tight end George Kittle's season-ending Achilles tear.
Fred Warner's ankle injury in Week 6 against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers initially ended his season, but the four-time All-Pro has made a remarkable recovery. The linebacker, who underwent surgery after teammate Ji'Ayir Brown rolled up on his leg, returned to practice Tuesday—three months ahead of expectations. "We're taking it day by day," Warner said Wednesday. "I feel amazing. Just so grateful, blessed to be back."
Warner has been limited in consecutive practices, joining defensive end Yetur Gross-Matos (knee), receiver Ricky Pearsall (knee), guard Dominick Puni (ankle), defensive end Keion White (groin, hamstring), and linebacker Dee Winters (ankle) as limited participants. Safety Ji'Ayir Brown (hamstring) and linebacker Luke Gifford (quad) did not practice. Defensive coordinator Robert Saleh praised Warner's energy: "Fred's the ultimate energy-giver, so just having him out there is awesome."
The 49ers face a Seahawks team where offensive tackle Charles Cross (hamstring, knee) was downgraded to limited, alongside linebacker Tyrice Knight (shoulder) and corner Tariq Woolen (oblique). Linebacker Ernest Jones missed practice due to illness. Warner's absence contributed to early-season struggles, but San Francisco allowed just 19 points to Philadelphia in the wild-card round. A return would add leadership and playmaking to a defense surrendering 19 points in its last outing.
Elsewhere, Buffalo's Josh Allen (foot, knee, right finger) practiced fully, while Houston's Nico Collins (concussion) sat out. New England's Christian Gonzalez (concussion) was limited. These updates set the stage for a pivotal weekend, with Warner's status a key storyline for the injury-plagued 49ers.