49ers' Warner feels strong after stint on COVID-19 list

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Linebacker Fred Warner chose not to disclose the details of his 10-day stay on the NFL’s reserve/COVID-19 list.

The time away from the team was difficult, for sure, but he considers himself fortunate it happened when it did.

Warner was reinstated on Wednesday, and immediately returned to his role in the middle of the 49ers’ defense. The 49ers open the season Sunday against the Arizona Cardinals at Levi’s Stadium.

“I don’t really want to get into nitty-gritty and the details behind it, but it sucked,” Warner said. “It did. Being away from the team for 10 days. It’s hard knowing that you’re possibly letting the team down.

“Everybody misses you, missing all that time, but at the same time, I’m just grateful it happened when it did and not during the season and being back at the time I am, able to get going for Week 1. That’s a blessing. But, yeah, It wasn’t a fun process.”

Players on the COVID-19 list get placed there because of either a positive test for coronavirus or they must quarantine after coming in close contract with someone who tested positive.

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Warner said he is feeling well physically after his time away. He also is feeling great after being named one of the 49ers’ seven captains for the coming.

“Being a captain, that’s the biggest accomplishment I’ve achieved to this date,” Warner said. “It says so much when your peers respect you.

“It’s just an honor for me to be able to serve them. That’s all I want to do is make sure I have their backs, and whatever they need they can count on me.”

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