SF 49ers: 3 silver linings from otherwise ugly Week 9 loss to Packers

SF 49ers Takeaway No. 3: Fred Warner is still a beast

This is a surprise to no one, but linebacker Fred Warner showed zero signs of being discouraged by the seemingly inevitable outcome. Even as the SF 49ers were watching their deficit increase at a regular basis, Warner was all over the field and making plays.

Sure, his stat line read 13 combined tackles with one for a loss. But it sure felt and looked like he was everywhere else all over the field.

What stands out here, though, is Warner maintained his physical presence and hustle at a time where less-dedicated players would have done the proverbial “give-up” pose on the defensive side of the ball. Perhaps he’s playing for what will be a well-deserved extension next season, or at least a Pro Bowl or All-Pro nod by the season’s end.

But what’s important here is Warner setting both the tone and example for the rest of San Francisco’s defense.

That isn’t lost on the players, coaching staff or fans.