The San Francisco 49ers have been navigating the 2025 season without one of their most vital players, All-Pro linebacker Fred Warner, who has been sidelined since October due to a dislocated and broken ankle. This injury had initially led to the belief that Warner’s season was effectively over, as recovery from such a severe injury typically takes several months. However, the 49ers have continued to see promising updates on Warner’s condition, and there is now a real possibility that he could return to the field just in time for the playoffs.

Warner, who is widely regarded as one of the best linebackers in the NFL, had been a central figure for the 49ers defense prior to his injury. His absence left a noticeable hole in the team’s defensive unit, but throughout his rehab, the veteran linebacker has made considerable strides. Reports now indicate that his recovery is progressing faster than initially expected, and the possibility of him making a return for the postseason is becoming more likely with each passing week.

On Thursday, a key update came out of 49ers practice from ESPN’s Nick Wagoner, who reported that Warner was seen doing some individual work on the side during practice. While not fully participating in team drills, the fact that he was engaging in short sprints indicates that his rehabilitation is on track and that his physical condition is improving. Warner’s ability to perform such movements, which were previously considered out of reach due to his injury, is a significant indicator that he could be gearing up for a potential return.

“For the first time during practice today, #49ers LB Fred Warner was doing some work on the side. Warner did some short sprints then sat down during portion open to media,” Wagoner tweeted, highlighting the significance of Warner’s return to individual drills.

Although Warner will not be playing in the 49ers’ upcoming game against the Philadelphia Eagles, set to take place at Lincoln Financial Field, the fact that he is already engaging in some physical activity again is an encouraging sign for his playoff chances. The 49ers will need to continue to take things one step at a time, focusing on their immediate goal of securing a win against the Eagles, but the return of Warner could be exactly what they need to make a deep run in the postseason.

If the 49ers do manage to defeat the Eagles, they would likely face the Seattle Seahawks in the divisional round of the playoffs, assuming the Green Bay Packers do not pull off an upset against the Chicago Bears during wild-card weekend. This potential matchup with the Seahawks is where Warner’s return could be most impactful. A playoff rematch against Seattle would bring with it the intensity of a divisional rivalry, and having Warner back in the mix could make a huge difference for San Francisco’s defense.

Warner’s presence on the field would provide a major boost for a defense that has already been performing at a high level. The linebacker is known for his exceptional ability to read the game, make critical tackles, and play a vital role in both run defense and pass coverage. His leadership and experience would bring an extra layer of stability to the 49ers’ defense as they prepare for the intensity of postseason football.

However, the 49ers cannot afford to look too far ahead. The focus remains on their upcoming game in Philadelphia, and they must first secure a win against a tough Eagles team to solidify their playoff position. If San Francisco wins, they will ensure a spot in the divisional round, where the possibility of having Warner back in the lineup becomes a much more realistic and exciting prospect.

The timeline for Warner’s return is still uncertain, and much depends on how well he continues to progress through his rehab. But the fact that he has already started to engage in physical drills is an optimistic sign that he is well ahead of schedule. As the 49ers look ahead to the rest of their playoff journey, getting Warner back into the fold would be a game-changing development for the team.

With the playoffs rapidly approaching, the 49ers know that every move counts. The addition of a player like Fred Warner, particularly in a postseason scenario, could be the difference between a deep run and an early exit. His ability to command the middle of the field and make big plays in crucial moments is something that would make a significant impact against some of the NFL’s toughest teams.

San Francisco’s defense has already been one of the most formidable in the league this season, but adding a healthy Warner to the mix would elevate it even further. His return could also help mitigate any issues the team faces as they move into more challenging playoff matchups. In fact, the return of Warner might just be the X-factor the 49ers need to help carry them toward a Super Bowl berth.

For now, the 49ers must focus on their immediate goal: securing a win against the Eagles and clinching a playoff spot. But as the team moves forward, all eyes will be on Fred Warner, whose potential return is providing a ray of hope for a 49ers team that has shown tremendous resilience throughout the season. If everything continues to progress smoothly, Warner’s presence in the postseason could be a game-changer for the 49ers as they chase their ultimate goal: a Super Bowl victory.