Posted on Jan 13

49ers open practice window for Warner ahead of playoff game vs. Seahawks

Posted Jan 13, 2026

The San Francisco 49ers are preparing for a crucial playoff matchup against the Seattle Seahawks while managing a range of injuries, notably with linebacker Fred Warner's potential return from a serious ankle injury.

Why it matters: The availability of Fred Warner could significantly impact the 49ers' defensive capabilities as they face a formidable opponent in the NFC playoffs.

Warner was instrumental in the 49ers' defensive scheme prior to his injury, which included a dislocated and fractured right ankle sustained on October 12 against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
His skill set is vital in a modern 3-4 defense, where his ability to cover ground and diagnose plays quickly has made him a cornerstone of San Francisco’s defensive unit.

What’s new: Warner’s practice window has officially opened, giving him the opportunity to return to full participation ahead of the playoffs.

Coach Kyle Shanahan noted that the team is cautiously optimistic about Warner’s recovery, stating, “Hoping he can be ready for next week.”
While he has not fully participated in practices yet, Warner has been engaged in walk-throughs, indicating a positive trajectory toward playing.

Yes, but: Despite the excitement surrounding Warner’s potential return, the 49ers also have significant concerns regarding other key players.

Tight end George Kittle is scheduled for surgery on his torn right Achilles, which will land him on injured reserve.
Additionally, left tackle Trent Williams is dealing with a hamstring injury, which could affect the protection for quarterback Brock Purdy as the playoffs approach.

What to watch: The health status of various players will play a pivotal role in determining the 49ers' effectiveness against the Seahawks.

Alongside Warner and Kittle, wide receiver Ricky Pearsall, who has missed recent games due to knee and ankle issues, and defensive lineman Keion White, among others, are battling injuries that could alter game strategies.
The 49ers’ depth at each position will be tested as they navigate this critical phase of the season.

The bottom line: The 49ers must balance the urgency of their playoff aspirations with the need to ensure player health and readiness.

Coach Shanahan emphasized the importance of medical protocols in making decisions about player participation, saying, “You can't always think with your heart and emotionally.”
As the team prepares to take on the Seahawks, how effectively they manage these injuries could determine their success in the playoffs.

Zoom out: As the NFL playoffs draw near, teams across the league are grappling with injuries that could shape the postseason landscape.

For the 49ers, the outcome of their upcoming game may hinge not only on the performance of their healthy stars but also on the effectiveness of those returning from injury like Warner.
This dynamic reflects a broader trend within the league, where maintaining player health becomes just as crucial as game strategy during high-stakes moments.

49ers open practice window for Warner ahead of playoff game vs. Seahawks

Alex Parker

Posted Jan 13, 2026

Why it matters: The availability of Fred Warner could significantly impact the 49ers' defensive capabilities as they face a formidable opponent in the NFC playoffs.

Warner was instrumental in the 49ers' defensive scheme prior to his injury, which included a dislocated and fractured right ankle sustained on October 12 against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

His skill set is vital in a modern 3-4 defense, where his ability to cover ground and diagnose plays quickly has made him a cornerstone of San Francisco’s defensive unit.

What’s new: Warner’s practice window has officially opened, giving him the opportunity to return to full participation ahead of the playoffs.

Coach Kyle Shanahan noted that the team is cautiously optimistic about Warner’s recovery, stating, “Hoping he can be ready for next week.”

While he has not fully participated in practices yet, Warner has been engaged in walk-throughs, indicating a positive trajectory toward playing.

Yes, but: Despite the excitement surrounding Warner’s potential return, the 49ers also have significant concerns regarding other key players.

Tight end George Kittle is scheduled for surgery on his torn right Achilles, which will land him on injured reserve.

Additionally, left tackle Trent Williams is dealing with a hamstring injury, which could affect the protection for quarterback Brock Purdy as the playoffs approach.

What to watch: The health status of various players will play a pivotal role in determining the 49ers' effectiveness against the Seahawks.

Alongside Warner and Kittle, wide receiver Ricky Pearsall, who has missed recent games due to knee and ankle issues, and defensive lineman Keion White, among others, are battling injuries that could alter game strategies.

The 49ers’ depth at each position will be tested as they navigate this critical phase of the season.

The bottom line: The 49ers must balance the urgency of their playoff aspirations with the need to ensure player health and readiness.

Coach Shanahan emphasized the importance of medical protocols in making decisions about player participation, saying, “You can't always think with your heart and emotionally.”

As the team prepares to take on the Seahawks, how effectively they manage these injuries could determine their success in the playoffs.

Zoom out: As the NFL playoffs draw near, teams across the league are grappling with injuries that could shape the postseason landscape.

For the 49ers, the outcome of their upcoming game may hinge not only on the performance of their healthy stars but also on the effectiveness of those returning from injury like Warner.

This dynamic reflects a broader trend within the league, where maintaining player health becomes just as crucial as game strategy during high-stakes moments.