Fred Warner Embraces 49ers' Defensive Shift with Raheem Morris at Helm
San Francisco 49ers linebacker Fred Warner has made it clear that he is fully behind the team's latest coaching decision, while also emphasizing that players had no direct involvement in the process. In a candid discussion on The Pat McAfee Show, Warner shared his enthusiastic support for the hiring of Raheem Morris as the new defensive coordinator, following the departure of Robert Saleh.
Warner's Confidence in Morris' Leadership and Experience
Warner, who missed most of the 2025 season due to an ankle injury, is now focused on the future and believes Morris brings exactly what the 49ers need. "I love the hire," Warner stated emphatically. "We're not mad at all. We love the hire, man. All I hear is great things about Raheem. Wherever he's been, it sounds like he's been beloved everywhere he's been." He highlighted Morris' reputation across the league, noting that the positive feedback alone gives him confidence heading into the 2026 season.
From Warner's perspective, Morris offers a blend of experience, trust, and a clear defensive philosophy that aligns with the 49ers' long-standing beliefs. He expressed eagerness to sit down with Morris and discuss the strategic plans for the defense, indicating that the timing feels right for a fresh voice, especially with several key defenders expected to return to the field.
Upholding the 49ers' Defensive Identity
Warner also delved into the core identity of the 49ers defense, which has traditionally relied on a 4-3 system. He explained that this approach allows the defensive line to attack aggressively from the start, while the secondary plays with speed, vision, and intensity. "And we've always run a 4-3 defense of just telling the D-ends and the D-line to get off the rock and letting the backend just kind of play with vision and ball out, break, play fast, play violent. And I expect nothing less going forward," Warner affirmed, underscoring his commitment to maintaining this aggressive style under Morris' guidance.
Lessons from Injury and Praise for Team Culture
The linebacker's 2025 season was cut short after he suffered an ankle injury against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in October, limiting him to just six games. However, this setback provided Warner with unexpected insights. In an interview with SB Nation writer Jeanna Kelly, he reflected on what he learned while observing from the sidelines. "Honestly, you learn a lot when you're behind the scenes and not watching from the sideline," Warner shared. "I think we have one of the best cultures and standards of any team in the entire NFL, and you really learn that when you go through hard times as we have."
Warner also praised head coach Kyle Shanahan for keeping the team competitive despite injuries to key players. With his own return alongside stars like Nick Bosa and Mykel Williams, expectations are soaring as Morris steps into his new role. Warner's positive outlook and detailed analysis suggest a promising season ahead for the 49ers' defense, blending veteran leadership with a renewed sense of purpose.
