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49ers Keep Door Open to Fred Warner’s Late-Playoff Cameo

An accelerated recovery has prompted a medical reassessment that could align with a bye-aided path to the conference title game.

Overview

  • GM John Lynch said Warner’s rehab is ahead of the initial timeline, prompting the team to revisit the possibility of a postseason appearance.
  • NFL Network reports indicate a chance of a limited cameo in the NFC Championship Game or, more plausibly, Super Bowl LX, though a return remains unlikely.
  • Any appearance would likely be spot duty, with team and medical staff emphasizing objective clearance benchmarks and the risk of re-injury.
  • Warner sustained a fractured and dislocated right ankle on Oct. 12 and had surgery shortly after, with typical recovery estimates of roughly 4–6 months.
  • Securing the No. 1 seed by winning out against the Bears and Seahawks would provide a first-round bye that could improve the odds; Tatum Bethune continues to start in Warner’s place.