The San Francisco 49ers are short-handed at inside linebacker, but it has provided a huge opportunity rookie Fred Warner. The third round pick moved into the starting lineup with Reuben Foster’s suspension, and has become the leader of the middle of the defense with Malcolm Smith sidelined with a hamstring injury.
Warner has received plenty of praise for his football intelligence, moving into the MIKE role in his debut. He handles the play-calls, receiving them from the defensive coaching staff and getting the defense in position. In Week 1, he handled that, while also leading the team in tackles and forcing a fumble.