Fred Warner locked in on 49ers’ offseason, eases contract concerns

There was a sense of relief at the San Francisco 49ers' facility on Tuesday as linebacker Fred Warner reported for the start of the team's offseason program. Quarterback Brock Purdy, amid contract extension negotiations, is also in attendance for this week's activities, which primarily consist of meetings and workouts.

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Tight end George Kittle, however, was not present, raising some concern amid reports that he and the 49ers remain far apart in their extension talks. Like Purdy, Kittle is entering the final year of his current deal.

Still, Kittle's absence isn't entirely surprising. The All-Pro tight end typically begins the offseason by continuing his training regimen in Nashville and rarely reports this early. It's also worth noting that everything up until the mandatory minicamp in June is voluntary.

Warner, on the other hand, has two years remaining on his current contract. So the idea of him skipping any part of the offseason due to a contract dispute—of which there currently is none—never seemed likely. However, concern emerged when Michael Silver of The Athletic noted that no "substantive talks" have occurred regarding a new deal.

Speaking with reporters on Tuesday, Warner expressed complete confidence that a new deal would eventually come together.

"I get paid plenty already," Warner said. "But listen, that whole part of it, I know my agent, and the team, and all that, that'll all handle itself out. I'm just, obviously, ready to just go to work and be the best version of myself."

When asked if he plans to attend the entire offseason program, Warner simply replied, "Yes, sir."

The linebacker played in all 17 games last season despite suffering an ankle fracture in Week 4 against the New England Patriots. On Tuesday, he shared that he's now fully recovered.

"I feel great," Warner said. "[The] ankle's a thing of the past now, thank God, because that was tough, trying to deal with that all season. But feel great now."

Warner confirmed that he did not require surgery and only needed time for the injury to heal.