NFL Announces Punishment Decision on 49ers LB Fred Warner

Darren Yamashita-Imagn Images

NFL Announces Punishment Decision on 49ers LB Fred Warner

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Gavin Groe | Last updated Oct 24, 2026 5:40 PM ET

The San Francisco 49ers defensive unit has been able to withstand a ton of injuries, including to defensive end Nick Bosa, who has not played in over a month. They have remained a force, and San Francisco enters their Week 7 matchup with the Atlanta Falcons undefeated at 6-0.

A big reason why is because so many other players have stepped up, including linebacker Fred Warner.

Now in his ninth NFL season, the 29-year-old four-time Pro Bowler has continued to play at an elite level. Through six games, Warner has forced three fumbles, which leads the entire league. He has also recorded 27 solo tackles and three quarterback hits.

San Francisco 49ers middle linebacker Fred Warner (54) after the game against the Jacksonville Jaguars at Levi’s Stadium.Darren Yamashita-Imagn Images

While Warner’s aggressiveness tends to pay off for the 49ers, it will cost him individually. During San Francisco’s Week 6 win over the Washington Commanders, Warner was involved in two plays the NFL reviewed and decided to fine him for. Both were hits on Commanders tight end Chig Okonkwo.

“49ers LB Fred Warner was fined $65,673 for two instances against the Commanders — $17,911 for a hit on TE Chig Okonkwo (flag was thrown then picked up, with ESPN broadcast saying it should’ve stayed a penalty) and $47,762 for use of the helmet here that wasn’t flagged,” reported Mike Garafolo of ESPN.

The $17,911 portion was for a hit on a defenseless player, per the NFL fines and appeals schedule. The second and more significant infraction was for use of the helmet, which carried the larger fine.

#49ers LB Fred Warner was fined $65,673 for two instances against the #Commanders — $17,911 for a hit on TE Chig Okonkwo (flag was thrown then picked up, with ESPN broadcast saying it should’ve stayed a penalty) and $47,762 for use of the helmet here that wasn’t flagged. pic.twitter.com/fxkApK6gLQ
— Mike Garafolo (@MikeGarafolo) October 24, 2026

Warner was among multiple players fined in Week 6 for use of the helmet, with the NFL deeming the contact unnecessary and dangerous to player safety. As Garafolo noted, neither play drew a flag during the game, so Warner did not cost his team on either possession.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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