The San Francisco 49ers aren't ruling out the possibility that star linebacker Fred Warner could return this postseason. Warner suffered a dislocated and fractured right ankle in Week 6, and early expectations were that he wouldn't play again until next year. Now, that timeline may not be set in stone.

San Francisco can boost its chances of a deep playoff run by winning its final two regular-season games. Two victories would clinch the NFC West, secure home-field advantage, and give the 49ers a first-round bye—extra time that could help Warner inch closer to a return.


The All-Pro defender recently hinted that he's not giving up on the idea.

"Never say never. We shall see," Warner said during a podcast appearance.

49ers general manager John Lynch joined Bay Area radio station KNBR on Friday and confirmed that Warner's recovery is trending better than expected. Lynch was asked whether Warner could play if the 49ers reach the NFC Championship Game or Super Bowl.

Lynch made clear the team is focused on Sunday night's game against the Chicago Bears and not looking too far ahead, even with a playoff berth already secured. Still, he acknowledged Warner is pushing the limits of his recovery.

"But what I can tell you is Fred's been working incredibly hard," Lynch said. "He's been attacking it in every which way, and he's making really good progress. I've said this consistently: it would be well ahead of the original timeline that we were given. But Fred kind of has the ability to move the doctors, because they're going to put objective measurements out there where, if you can reach these, you can get there. And Fred has continually done that."


Warner's relentless work is causing the team and medical staff to keep an open mind.

"I think it's made a lot of people kind of reexamine, 'Okay, would this be possible?' and I think that's a great thing," Lynch continued. "So I'm watching him. I've consistently said it: I won't put anything past him, and I think it's a thing that will remain to be seen. But I know he's putting his heart and soul and his incredible work ethic to work every single day in an effort to do that."

While Warner's return remains uncertain, it's clear the 49ers aren't closing the door on the possibility.



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