To fans, it might seem like the San Francisco 49ers have little to play for in these final three games of the season. Last week's loss to the Los Angeles Rams significantly diminished their already slim playoff hopes. Instead of fighting for a postseason berth, the team is focused on finishing strong, hoping to build momentum heading into next season.
Speaking to reporters on Wednesday, linebacker Fred Warner acknowledged the shift in mindset. While the team's original goal—a Super Bowl run—is now out of reach, Warner stressed the importance of playing for pride in these final games.
"Unfortunately, there is a difference," Warner said. "But at the same time, pride is a very powerful motivator in this league. The moment you decide that you're going to go out there, you're going to half-butt it and not give your all when you're in between that grass, or in between those white lines on that grass, and you put bad stuff on film, that's who you are.
"You're judged in this league by what you put on tape every single week. So playoffs, no playoffs, we're playing three good teams to finish this year off. And honestly, I want to finish strong heading into next season because that carryover is real."
Wide receiver Deebo Samuel, eager to counter the narratives about his struggles this season, shares Warner's sentiment. For Samuel, these final games are an opportunity to make a statement—individually and as a team.
"It's all about finishing strong, for sure," Samuel said. "That was Kyle's (head coach Kyle Shanahan) message—finish strong, and let's see who wants to really be a part of this team. Finish strong, and just move past it, and just see where things fall."
Warner also reflected on the ever-changing nature of NFL rosters. Every season brings change, and this final stretch is his last chance to compete with this group of teammates.
The 49ers will travel to face the Miami Dolphins this weekend. Instead of worrying about future uncertainties, Warner is focused on the immediate challenge.
"At the end of the day, each year, each team is different," Warner explained. "It's about what you do with that new team, that new group. Like I said, I truly believe that we need to finish strong throughout the rest of this season.
"The offseason, things will happen however they're going to happen, but I'm just focused on the here and now."
Following their trip to Miami, the 49ers will host the Detroit Lions in Week 17 and then close out the season on the road against the Arizona Cardinals.
"We get these next couple dubs, and it ain't nothing but motivation for us, getting back to work whenever we got to report back (in the offseason)," Samuel said. "It'd be a little motivation for sure."
Despite the disappointing circumstances, Warner remains deeply grateful for every chance to suit up and battle with his brothers on the football field.
"We've got three big-time games coming up, and regardless of the situation, it is a blessing to be out there to strap it up," Warner said. "Every time I go out, I come in the locker room before a game, and I see the pads with the 49ers jersey on it, and I'm in year seven, and it still gives me goosebumps just even looking at that. So it's always going to mean a lot."