One of the key contenders is third-year linebacker Dee Winters, a former sixth-round draft pick. Warner shared high praise for his young teammate, noting significant development over the offseason.
"I've seen a lot of growth, honestly," Warner said. "I've seen a guy who's ready to take that next step. Dee has flashed in a big way through his first two seasons, and I think Year 3 is that year where it's like, 'Man, I know the system, I know what I needed to do in the offseason, and now it's time for me to take control and really put it on tape.'"
Winters, who has appeared in 30 games with 10 starts over his first two NFL seasons, has tallied 54 tackles and 10 passes defensed. He is expected to compete with rookie Nick Martin for a key role in the 49ers' 2025 defense.
"I'm excited for Dee, really," Warner added. "I think he had a great OTAs. I know that he's been working his tail off to be ready for training camp. So, I'm excited to see what he's going to do."
Warner also noted that injuries have held Winters back in the past, limiting his availability and opportunities to consistently develop.
"When you have an injury, it kind of sets you back, and then you kind of start back over from where you were," Warner said. "And you're constantly playing this battle of trying to stay in it, staying in shape. You can't just continue to get better at your craft."
Looking ahead to training camp, Warner emphasized the importance of consistency and confidence.
"And so, I think that's going to be the biggest thing for him in this training camp, honestly, is just be out there every single day with intent to be better, and to really own it," Warner continued. "If you want it to be yours, it's there for the taking. And I think that's the biggest thing for him, is just playing with confidence.
"If you want to be that guy, go out there and show your teammates, show the coaches, show everybody that you're ready. And so I'm excited for him, honestly."
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