Overview
- Head coach Kyle Shanahan named Tatum Bethune the starting MIKE and green-dot signal-caller following Fred Warner’s broken, dislocated right ankle and Tuesday surgery.
- Bethune logged 45–48 defensive snaps against the Buccaneers and led San Francisco with 10 tackles in his first extended action of the season.
- Shanahan acknowledged a 34-yard Tampa Bay touchdown stemmed from a coverage bust tied to Warner’s absence, noting he expects Bethune to grow into the role.
- Defensive coordinator Robert Saleh praised Bethune’s communication and preparation, pointing to banked first-team reps from OTAs and forecasting meaningful development with continued snaps.
- Depth at MIKE is limited with Curtis Robinson designated as the backup, while rookie Nick Martin is not slated for MIKE duties and could see special-teams work as the 49ers host the Falcons.