Patrick Willis and NaVorro Bowman left big shoes to fill on the 49ers' defense.
The star linebackers have eight First-Team All-Pro designations and 10 Pro Bowl nods between them. Together, Willis and Bowman arguably were one of the best linebacker duos to ever suit up in the NFL.
Fred Warner has yet to be named to a Pro Bowl, but now in his third year with the 49ers, his name is being thrown around with his decorated predecessors. Warner considers it an honor to be compared to Willis and Bowman.
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“Regardless of if you’ve studied tape or not, I think you’re pretty familiar with guys like Patrick and NaVorro because of how great of football players they were,” Warner said Wednesday. “If you love the game, you know who those names are.
“Being able to be drafted by the 49ers and knowing that great players have come before you, there’s a big responsibility on your shoulders.”
Warner has flourished in 2020, with more responsibilities added to his plate. He has been the quarterback of the defense, wearing the “green dot” since his rookie year, but after simplifying his duties so he could play faster in his second season, he has taken on an expanded role.
Warner leads the team in tackles for the third season in a row. He also has been tremendous in pass coverage, with two interceptions.
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Willis keeps a close eye on his former team and has reached out to Warner ever since the 49ers drafted him in 2018. Warner couldn’t be more humbled by the former All-Pro’s compliments.
“Patrick and I have talked over the years and we have a great relationship,” Warner said. “He’s constantly telling me how great he’s doing and what I need to keep doing. It’s just great for him to even be watching me, and acknowledging my play is amazing.
“Sometimes I feel myself being starstruck and it’s real, just the fact that I have his respect means the world.”