Tampa, FL — October 12, 2025 — San Francisco 49ers linebacker Fred Warner suffered a gruesome, season-ending right ankle injury during Sunday’s game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, but he remained in high spirits and promised fans he will return stronger than ever.

Warner, 28, collided with teammate Ji’Ayir Brown and Buccaneers’ Rachaad White in the first quarter, resulting in a broken and dislocated ankle. He was carted off the field but appeared to smile despite the severity of the injury.

“Some ask why I was able to smile on the cart heading in, and it’s because (aside from the shock) I have complete peace in knowing God’s plan is so completely perfect and I’m exactly where I’m supposed to be,” Warner wrote on Instagram the following day.

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Reflecting on the Injury

Warner shared that he had experienced eight seasons free of major injuries and sees this setback as an opportunity to inspire others through his recovery.

“I’ve had the privilege of being able to have a very healthy 8 seasons, and now it’s time to inspire through the comeback I’m bout to have. It will be LEGENDARY and right on time God willing,” he added.

The linebacker also thanked fans, family, and friends for their support, noting the outpouring of prayers meant “the world” to him.

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Team Reaction

Head coach Kyle Shanahan called Warner’s injury “a huge blow” to the 49ers, praising him as “one of our best players” and “a huge leader.”

Teammate Ji’Ayir Brown, who was involved in the collision, said:

“Seeing him go down, a guy that doesn’t go down, you know what I mean? It’s draining. Everybody felt that.”

Warner’s wife, Sydney Warner, shared his Instagram post on her Stories, adding, “It’s God’s plan always. Keep the faith.”

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Looking Ahead

While Warner will miss the rest of the 2025 season, he remains optimistic about his rehabilitation and eventual return. The veteran linebacker is expected to undergo surgery soon, followed by an extensive recovery process.

“I have complete peace in knowing God’s plan is perfect. Time to inspire through the comeback,” Warner said.