The 49ers selected linebacker Fred Warner out of BYU with their first pick in the 3rd round (70th overall)
The newest member of the #49ers: @fred_warner!#BrickByBrick pic.twitter.com/suulTpE7UL
— San Francisco 49ers (@49ers) April 28, 2018
Bio
Cougars coaches locked up Fred, a four-star recruit from southern California, in the 2014 recruiting class and then his brother, Troy, came to Provo two years later. Both started for BYU in 2016 and 2017. Fred earning first-team All-Independent status in 2016 with 86 tackles, 10.5 for loss, 1.5 sacks, and three interceptions (one returned for a touchdown). As a senior, Warner started all 13 games, leading the Cougars with 87 tackles, nine for loss, along with one interception and five pass breakups. Warner stepped into the starting role as a sophomore in 12 of 13 games played, making 67 tackles, 11.5 for loss, four sacks, and four fumble recoveries. Warner played as a true freshman, racking up 24 tackles and returning an interception for a pick six despite playing in only 10 games (no starts).
Overview
Warner’s future success could largely depend on who takes him and how they use him. While most will view him as an outside linebacker, Warner moves around like a big safety. With his instincts and cover skills in space, finding a hybrid role in sub-packages might be where he is best utilized. Warner’s size, speed and workout at the Combine may play into his draft value more heavily than many other prospects. Warner should find immediate work as a backup who can help on special teams.
Strengths
Possesses good length and fluid hips
Moves like a safety but plays near the line
Solid athletic ability
Change of direction comes fairly easy for him in space
Gets good production check marks over the last three years
Recovered five fumbles and grabbed six interceptions in that time frame
Team captain and active tackler
Plays with plus instincts
Quick to diagnose and trigger downhill for TFLs
Extremely responsive to quarterback’s eyes in space
Gets early jump on receivers when he sees it
Adequate closing burst to the ball
Weaknesses
Tackle consistency may be a concern on next level
Unclear what his best positional fit is
Scheme allowed him to play off the line and keep plays in front of him
Picks and chooses when to thump
Will need to add play strength if he gets moved into a standard linebacker role
Will click motor off and coast at times when he’s on the back side of the play
NFL Draft Profile – [NFL.com]
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