Why Fred Warner believes 49ers' rookie defenders are ready to shine

Over the weekend, NBC Sports Bay Area caught up with Fred Warner at his annual ProCamps youth football event at St. Francis High School in Mountain View. The San Francisco 49ers linebacker is eager to get back to work this offseason. But, as is often the case year to year, the roster features plenty of new faces, including several rookie defensive linemen.

The 49ers retooled their defensive front during the 2025 NFL Draft, selecting Mykel Williams in the first round, Alfred Collins in the second round, and CJ West in the fourth round. The team hopes the infusion of youth will help create a dominant unit in the trenches for years to come.

Because of this offseason's turnover, the first-year players will have an opportunity to contribute early. Warner hopes they make the most of it.

"They look hungry. They look ready to go," Warner said. "I think all of them are going to have a great opportunity to come in and compete right away, and I think that's all you could ask for as a young player in this league, is an opportunity, and they have a great one ahead of them. And I'm excited to see how they continue to progress."

Another 49ers rookie who is expected to become a significant contributor is linebacker Nick Martin, a third-round pick. The team lost Dre Greenlaw this offseason, breaking up one of the NFL's most respected linebacker duos, and Martin has a chance to step in and make his mark quickly.

"Nick's been great," Warner said. "Seeing him squat in the weight room is like, 'Whoa, that's a lot of weight there, buddy.'"

Warner didn't disclose exactly how much the 22-year-old was lifting, but added, "He can put it up in there."

Like all rookies, Martin is focused on finding his footing, soaking up knowledge from Warner and the team's other seasoned veterans.

"He's like a sponge, asking lots of questions, lots of great questions, and wanting to just soak up as much information as possible," Warner said. "Obviously, he moves really well. It's the reason why we got him.

"For a lot of these players, it's going to be what happens when you put the pads on. Right now, it's just about learning the defense, learning the team, and then ultimately, when the time comes, showing up."