49ers' Fred Warner carted off with ankle injury, out vs Buccaneers

TAMPA, Fla. — San Francisco 49ers All‑Pro linebacker Fred Warner was carted off the field with an apparent right ankle injury early Sunday in the team’s game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and was ruled out for the contest, further depleting a roster already beset by injuries.

Warner was injured with 7:48 remaining in the first quarter while pursuing a 10‑yard run by Rachaad White. Teammate JiAyir Brown fell into Warner during the tackle, and Warner’s right leg appeared to twist awkwardly. Trainers placed an air cast on his lower leg before he was taken from the field on a cart. Tatum Bethune replaced Warner on the field. The team provided no immediate timeline for his recovery.

Warner entered the day as one of the 49ers’ defensive leaders, with 50 tackles and two forced fumbles through five games. The 28‑year‑old is a four‑time first‑team All‑Pro and has missed only one game in his eight‑year career. His removal from the lineup adds to a mounting injury list that includes season‑ending ACL tear for edge rusher Nick Bosa, quarterback Brock Purdy sidelined with a lingering toe issue, All‑Pro tight end George Kittle out with a hamstring strain, and receivers Brandon Aiyuk and...