Fred Warner has been one of the NFL’s most reliable linebackers since entering the league in 2018, missing only a single game in 122 opportunities. That consistency made the news from Sunday’s game all the more jarring.

During the 49ers’ 30-19 loss to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Warner suffered a severe right ankle injury just under eight minutes into the first quarter. The ankle was both broken and dislocated, and 49ers head coach Kyle Shanahan confirmed that Warner will require surgery, effectively ending his season.

Warner took to Instagram to process the moment, posting a heartfelt message to fans and teammates.

“There’s certain game you wake up knowing it’s gonna be your day, and yesterday was one of those days. I knew I was bout to go off, and then boom, everything over in one instant that was completely unpreventable. The love everyone has shown me and the prayers being had for me mean the world to me.”

He added, “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. 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. Thank you guys, love always GO NINERS🙏🏾❤️”

In his post, Warner also shared a quote that perfectly captured the emotional storm he’s facing — one from the late Kobe Bryant, a personal hero and symbol of perseverance. The quote, which Bryant originally wrote to Gordon Hayward after his 2017 Achilles injury, reads:

“Be sad. Be mad. Be frustrated. Scream. Cry. Sulk. When you wake up you will think it was just a nightmare only to realize it’s all too real. You will be angry and wish for the day back, the game back, THAT play back. But reality gives nothing back and nor should you.”

By including Bryant’s words, Warner offered a glimpse into his mindset—acknowledging the pain of the moment but also embracing the challenge that lies ahead.

The play that led to the injury began with Tampa Bay running back Rachaad White rushing for 10 yards off left tackle. Warner moved to make the tackle. But as 49ers safety Ji’Ayir Brown brought White down, Brown’s leg was on top of Warner’s ankle, resulting in the devastating injury.

The moment shocked everyone on the field.

Fred Warner’s injury shakes 49ers

Wide receiver Jauan Jennings admitted he had to take nausea medicine because he was “sick to his stomach” watching Warner get carted off. And veteran tackle Trent Williams called it “heartbreaking.”

“Fred’s not just one of the best linebackers to ever play the game,” Williams said. “He’s the heart and soul of this team.”

And while Warner was sidelined early, the Niners turned to second-year linebacker Tatum Bethune to fill the void at middle linebacker.

Still Warner found a way to lift his teammates. Urging them to keep fighting. He stayed at Raymond James Stadium for the rest of the game and even addressed the team afterward—reminding them that the season wasn’t over.

“There’s a lot of football left,” Warner told his teammates. “We can still accomplish a lot, even without me.”

The outpouring of respect extended beyond the Niners’ sideline. Buccaneers quarterback Baker Mayfield and head coach Todd Bowles both opened their postgame remarks. Sending thoughts and prayers to Warner.

Warner’s injury came at a painful time. He was just five tackles shy of breaking Patrick Willis’ franchise record for career tackles. Now, that milestone will have to wait. And to make matters worse, San Francisco is dealing with an avalanche of injuries. Nick Bosa (ACL), George Kittle (hamstring), Brock Purdy (toe), and wideouts Ricky Pearsall, Brandon Aiyuk, and Jauan Jennings are all battling ailments.

Moreover, while the pain of seeing his season end so suddenly is undeniable. Warner made it clear that he’ll soon undergo surgery and begin what he called a “legendary” comeback journey. A promise that perfectly captures his relentless mindset.