Fred Warner: Is Mormon, BYU, Playing Tonight, Kids, Size and Nationality

Fred Warner is one of the most recognizable linebackers in the NFL and a key defensive leader for the San Francisco 49ers. His background has also attracted interest beyond football, particularly his connection to BYU and the Mormon faith, along with questions about his family, height, weight and nationality.

Here is a complete look at Fred Warner’s religion, BYU career, current playing status, children, size and nationality.

Fred Warner Quick Facts

Warner was born in San Marcos, California, and developed into an elite defensive player before reaching the NFL. He played his college football at Brigham Young University and was selected by San Francisco in the third round of the 2018 NFL Draft.

Is Fred Warner Mormon?

Yes. Fred Warner was raised in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, commonly referred to as the LDS Church or Mormon Church.

His faith was also connected to his path to BYU. While Warner was a high school player, a member of his congregation who was a BYU alumnus helped get his football highlights to BYU’s coaching staff. That connection helped put him on the Cougars’ recruiting radar.

Because BYU has a strong connection with the LDS Church, Warner’s religious background is frequently mentioned alongside his college career.

Did Fred Warner Go to BYU?

Yes. Warner played college football for the BYU Cougars from 2014 through 2017.

He became a three-year starter and finished his BYU career with 264 total tackles, 32 tackles for loss, 6.5 sacks, seven interceptions, five fumble recoveries and three forced fumbles. He also graduated from BYU with a degree in exercise and wellness.

His college production helped establish him as an NFL prospect. San Francisco ultimately selected him with the 70th overall pick in the 2018 NFL Draft.

Is Fred Warner Playing Tonight?

Yes — Fred Warner played in the 49ers’ 2026 season opener against the Los Angeles Rams.

The game was played at the Melbourne Cricket Ground in Australia on September 11 local time, corresponding to Thursday evening in the United States. San Francisco won 27-7. Warner returned to action and played a major role in the victory.

Warner finished the game with 11 total tackles and one forced fumble. His fourth-quarter strip of Rams tight end Tyler Higbee helped the 49ers put the game out of reach.

So, if you are searching for whether Fred Warner is playing tonight, the answer depends on the time zone: he has already played in the 49ers-Rams season opener.

Fred Warner Size: Height and Weight

Fred Warner is listed at 6 feet 3 inches tall and around 230 pounds.

His combination of size, speed and football intelligence has made him particularly effective as a modern NFL linebacker. He can defend against the run, cover receivers and tight ends, and operate as the central communicator of the 49ers’ defense.

His athletic profile was also evident during his BYU career, where he played both inside and outside linebacker roles.

How Many Kids Does Fred Warner Have?

Fred Warner and his wife, Sydney Hightower Warner, became parents in 2024.

The couple welcomed their first child, a son, in March 2024.

More recently, Warner and Sydney announced that they are expecting a daughter, adding to their family.

Therefore, family searches about Fred Warner now commonly focus on his son and the couple’s growing family.

Who Is Fred Warner’s Wife?

Fred Warner is married to Sydney Hightower Warner. The couple has shared parts of their family life publicly, including announcements surrounding their children.

Sydney is also known for her previous appearance on reality television, while Fred has built his public profile through his NFL career with the 49ers.

What Is Fred Warner’s Nationality?

Fred Warner is American.

He was born in San Marcos, California, United States, and represents the United States in professional football through his NFL career.

His family background is diverse. Warner has Mexican American heritage through his mother’s side, while his father’s side has African and Panamanian heritage.

NFL Career

The 49ers selected Warner in the third round of the 2018 NFL Draft. He quickly became an important part of San Francisco’s defense.

By the middle of his career, Warner had established himself as one of the NFL’s premier linebackers. He has earned multiple Pro Bowl selections and First-Team All-Pro honors.

His career statistics before the 2026 season included 948 total tackles, 10 sacks, 10 interceptions and 17 forced fumbles, according to the available career record.

His latest performance against the Rams added another forced fumble to his impressive defensive résumé.

Fred Warner and the 49ers in 2026

Warner’s return was particularly important for San Francisco after missing significant time during the previous season because of an ankle injury.

The 49ers opened the 2026 campaign with an impressive 27-7 victory over the Rams. Warner and Dre Greenlaw were reunited at linebacker, with both players making important defensive contributions.

Warner’s 11 tackles and forced fumble demonstrated why he remains one of the most important players on the San Francisco defense.

Conclusion

Fred Warner is an American NFL linebacker for the San Francisco 49ers who played his college football at BYU. Yes, he was raised in the LDS Church, commonly known as the Mormon faith. He stands 6-foot-3 and weighs around 230 pounds.

Warner is also a father and is married to Sydney Hightower Warner. Most importantly for current NFL searches, he played in the 49ers’ 2026 season opener against the Rams and recorded 11 tackles and a forced fumble in San Francisco’s 27-7 win.

FAQs

Is Fred Warner Mormon?

Yes. He was raised in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

Did Fred Warner go to BYU?

Yes. Warner played for BYU from 2014 through 2017 and graduated with a degree in exercise and wellness.

Is Fred Warner playing tonight?

He played in the 49ers’ 27-7 victory over the Rams in the 2026 season opener. He recorded 11 tackles and forced a fumble.

How tall is Fred Warner?

He is listed at 6 feet 3 inches tall.

How much does Fred Warner weigh?

He is listed at approximately 230 pounds.

How many kids does Fred Warner have?

Warner and Sydney Hightower Warner have a son, and the couple has announced they are expecting a daughter.

What is Fred Warner’s nationality?

He is American and was born in San Marcos, California.