Fred Warner remains the unquestioned leader of the San Francisco 49ers defense and is widely regarded as the best linebacker in the NFL. However, with Dre Greenlaw now in Denver, the depth behind Warner is less certain. The 49ers used a third-round pick in April's draft to select linebacker Nick Martin, who has already drawn praise for his strong offseason performance.

But what about Dee Winters?


A sixth-round pick in 2023, Winters has been developing within the 49ers' system and may be poised for a breakout. He appeared in 15 games last season, starting 10. His 66.4 overall defensive grade from Pro Football Focus marked a career best, and his 80.0 coverage grade ranked second among 49ers defenders—trailing only Warner's elite 88.4.

Could Winters make enough of an impression during training camp to secure a more prominent role in San Francisco's defense?

"He's been impressive," defensive coordinator Robert Saleh said on Wednesday. "Again, it's easy when it's OTAs, and you're not having to deal with run-pass reads, and everything's a little bit slower, but he's got something to him."

Competition for the linebacker spots behind Warner will be intense, but Winters' combination of experience, athleticism, and growth makes him a player to watch when camp opens in late July. Saleh likes the direction Winters is headed.

"I don't want to jinx him or anything," Saleh added, "but if he stays on his trajectory and he attacks these next 40 days and he does things the right way, I think he's due for a heck of a season."

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