Former BYU Cougar Becomes NFL’s Highest-Paid LB with 49ers Extension

Fred Warner never needed the spotlight to shine—he earned it with grit, consistency, and relentless leadership. Now, the former BYU standout and San Francisco 49ers linebacker is cashing in on a legacy built the hard way, signing a three-year, $63 million extension that makes him the highest-paid off-ball linebacker in NFL history.

For Cougar Nation, this is more than a contract—it’s a statement.

Warner’s rise from Provo to professional dominance has been nothing short of remarkable. After leading BYU in tackles for three consecutive seasons, he was drafted in the third round in 2018. Since then, he’s become the heartbeat of the 49ers’ defense—and arguably the best linebacker in football.

“This is just the beginning,” Warner told reporters after the announcement. “Every rep, every snap—I play to set the tone, for my team and my family. That won’t change.”

The contract includes $56.7 million in guaranteed money and bumps Warner’s average annual salary to $21 million—surpassing Roquan Smith’s $20 million mark. This is Warner’s second deal that’s reset the linebacker market, a testament to his impact on and off the field.