Joe Burrow, Zac Taylor laud Warner’s greatness ahead of 49ers-Bengals

Joe Burrow, Zac Taylor laud Warner’s greatness ahead of 49ers-Bengals originally appeared on NBC Sports Bay Area

When the San Francisco 49ers face off against the Cincinnati Bengals at Levi’s Stadium on Sunday, fans can expect an explosion of star power on the field. One player the Bengals are especially concerned about going into this highly-anticipated matchup is Fred Warner, the All-Pro linebacker for the 49ers. Warner’s impressive performance this season has thrust him into the discussion for the Defensive Player of the Year award.

Joe Burrow, the quarterback for the Bengals, praised Warner’s exceptional skills and highlighted what sets him apart from other players in his position. “Man, he’s fast,” Burrow told reporters on Wednesday. “He’s got remarkable ball skills in zone coverage, so you always need to be aware of that. He flies around and makes big plays. It feels like he’s always near the ball, making tips and creating significant defensive contributions that not many linebackers can replicate. You always have to be alert to his presence. He’s guaranteed to make plays, so you just have to move on to the next one.”

Zac Taylor, the head coach of the Bengals, is well acquainted with Warner from their time together on the Los Angeles Rams coaching staff when Warner first entered the NFL in 2018. Taylor explained how Warner’s experience in San Francisco’s defensive scheme has allowed him to grow and consistently improve over the years, establishing himself as one of the most impactful defenders in the league. “He’s a great player,” Taylor acknowledged. “He’s outstanding in their defense. He makes an impact on every single play and plays with a high level of intensity and intelligence. No doubt, he’s one of the top linebackers in the game. His instinct and confidence in the scheme, along with his experience, have contributed to his success. He’s always been a great player, and he just keeps getting better every year.”

Since being drafted by the 49ers in the third round of the 2018 NFL Draft, Warner has emerged as the leader of one of the most formidable defenses in the league. After a subpar performance against the Minnesota Vikings last week, Warner and the 49ers’ defense are determined to reclaim their dominance as they go up against the talented Bengals offense.

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