Full Breakdown
Kyle Van Noy Eyes a Return to the Bay Area to Play with Fred Warner
5/6/2026, 1:24:59 AM
Core Event: Van Noy Publicly Declares Interest in Joining the 49ers
On May 5, 2026, free-agent linebacker Kyle Van Noy appeared on Up & Adams and said he would like to play with his longtime friend and BYU alumnus Fred Warner on the 49ers. Van Noy did not confirm any formal talks with San Francisco, noted the Seahawks had shown interest before signing Dante Fowler Jr., and said he remains open to a return to Baltimore.
Verbatim Quotes
- “I’d really like to play with my little brother, Fred Warner, with the Niners,” — Kyle Van Noy, former Ravens linebacker
- “I want to throw out a team that a lot of people may not know ... I'd really like to play with my little brother Fred Warner with the Niners,” — Kyle Van Noy, former Ravens linebacker
- “He'd probably be bossing me around since it's his defense,” — Kyle Van Noy, former Ravens linebacker
- “He might get all of the get-backs [from] me messing with him after all these years.” — Kyle Van Noy, former Ravens linebacker
Background & Recent Performance
Kyle Van Noy, 35, entered free agency after a 13-year NFL career. In his most recent season with the Baltimore Ravens he logged 20 tackles, two sacks and one interception. He posted 21.5 sacks in his first two seasons and a career-best 12.5 sacks during a Pro Bowl year two years earlier.
49ers Defensive Line Depth and Fit
San Francisco addressed most roster needs through free agency and the 2026 NFL Draft, adding limited veteran pass-rush depth. The team acquired Osa Odighizuwa via trade and re-signed linebacker Dre Greenlaw. Recent injuries to linebackers have created depth concerns, and younger players such as Luke Gifford, Tatum Bethune, Nick Martin and rookie Jaden Duggar sit behind Warner and Greenlaw. The lack of a dedicated veteran edge rusher this offseason leaves open the possibility of a mid-season addition.
Criticism & Opposition
Analysts note that Van Noy, at 35, is beyond his prime and that the 49ers already have a layered linebacker group anchored by Warner and Greenlaw. The presence of several younger players reduces the immediate need for another veteran backer. Moreover, the team has not added a dedicated veteran edge rusher this offseason, raising doubts about whether Van Noy would receive meaningful snap counts. Age and roster composition are cited as primary obstacles to a potential signing.
Official Statements & Responses
The San Francisco 49ers organization has not issued a public comment regarding Van Noy’s expressed interest.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
Sources agree Van Noy wants to join the 49ers, but no confirmation exists that the team has evaluated or pursued him, and details of any offer remain absent.
What’s Next
Van Noy may receive a call from the 49ers if injuries create a need, or he could explore opportunities with the Seahawks, Ravens or other interested teams.
