The San Francisco 49ers could be getting some major help back in 2025, or rather, in 2026, but during the NFL playoffs.
With a spot already clinched, the 49ers are eyeing a first-round bye, which could put them just one win away from the NFC Championship game. If that happens, the 49ers might be without their best defender for just one game instead of multiple.
According to NFL insiders Ian Rapoport and Mike Garafolo, the 49ers could be getting linebacker Fred Warner back in the playoffs. Specifically, a cameo in the NFC Championship game or Super Bowl could be in the cards for Warner.
49ers could get Fred Warner back for deep playoff run
"Sources informed of Warner's situation say there is a chance that Warner's rehab could be going well enough for him to make a cameo in the NFC Championship game if San Francisco is a participant or more likely Super Bowl LX, should it win the conference title," Rapoport and Garafolo report.
This would be a stunning return for Warner, who suffered a brutal dislocated and fractured ankle earlier this season. While there is some hope, these two NFL insiders make it clear about a potential Warner return.
Warner, if he were to return, would likely make his debut coming off a brutal injury in the Super Bowl. But, overall, the 49ers' linebacker returning is unlikely despite this report.
However, while Warner making a postseason appearance is unlikely, it's not impossible. San Francisco might be getting their superstar linebacker back this season, despite an expected season-ending injury.
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Even if this does nothing other than spark extra motivation for the 49ers, Warner's injury recovery going this well is some incredible news.
Warner could wind up not returning for the 49ers this season, even if they make the Super Bowl, but if his recovery is going this well, then his status for 2026 is all but certain.
There's a chance that Warner could return for the 49ers this playoffs, and while it's incredibly unlikely, it's not an impossible scenario.
49ers fans and personnel shouldn't bank on Warner returning this season, but the small chance he does have for a return is an exciting proposition heading into the playoff hunt.
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