49ers Defense Faces Injury Setback

On Sunday, the 49ers defense encountered a major blow when linebacker Fred Warner was taken off the field during the first quarter of their game against the Buccaneers.

Warner, a four-time Pro Bowler with 51 total tackles this season, became stuck in a pile during a run by Larchad White. It looked like he got his right foot rolled under by safety Ziair Brown.

The entire 49ers sideline flooded the field as trainers tended to him, ultimately fitting his leg into an air cast for removal from Raymond James Stadium.

At 28 years old and a third-round pick in 2018, Warner is under the guidance of defensive coordinator Robert Saleh, who previously coached the Jets. The 49ers’ defense was performing well heading into the game, ranking sixth in the league for points allowed per game (19.6).

Despite this setback, the defense’s strong showing helped the 49ers manage without starting quarterback Brock Purdy, who missed his fourth game due to a toe injury while backup QB Mac Jones adjusted to the role.

As the second quarter progressed, San Francisco was in the lead, 10-7, thanks to a touchdown from Christian McCaffrey.