Former Ravens edge-rusher Kyle Van Noy said he’d like to play with Fred Warner on the 49ers, as San Francisco searches for pass-rush help.
A 49ers reunion with former Ravens edge-rusher Kyle Van Noy is at least in the conversation after the Pro Bowl defender said he has a clear preference for where he wants to land in 2026.
Van Noy. 35. used a candid moment during an appearance on Misryoum to name the team he’d like to join. pointing to the possibility of teaming up with his “little brother. ” Fred Warner.. He framed the interest as a genuine fit. even while acknowledging that roster conversations can move quickly in the free-agent market.
His comments come after a season that did not match his best production. yet he has also shown he can generate pressure and impact games when the opportunity is there.. That matters for a 49ers defense that has struggled to consistently get to the quarterback. especially when contrasted with the expectation that a top-tier front can apply sustained pressure.
Why it matters: Even when a player’s recent numbers lag, the fit can still be compelling if a team’s biggest need aligns with a veteran’s role and experience—especially in the pass rush.
From San Francisco’s perspective, the pressure package is a clear priority.. The 49ers finished the most recent season with low sack production overall. and beyond a couple of core names. the group lacked frequent. game-changing results at the quarterback.. That reality makes an experienced edge defender like Van Noy a logical target for teams that want to improve without overhauling the entire unit.
Van Noy’s potential value also depends on health and continuity.. San Francisco has had to account for season-ending injuries that affected its edge rotation. and once starters miss time. the supporting cast has to provide more than just depth on paper.. Van Noy’s track record suggests he has the ability to contribute sacks when used effectively. even if his latest output has been more uneven.
Why it matters: For defenses, consistent quarterback hits often come down to play design and repeatable personnel choices, so a veteran who can slot into multiple looks may be more valuable than a single “numbers” snapshot.
There is also the wider context of how San Francisco could approach the next phase of roster building.. With the possibility of other high-profile edge activity always in play around the league. the path for any additional veteran signing could shift quickly.. But the strongest storyline here remains Van Noy’s stated desire and the suggestion that relationships within a defense can influence opportunities.
In the end, the 49ers interest would likely hinge on whether they want to round out the pass-rush rotation with a proven option and how their offseason plans develop. If San Francisco believes Van Noy can help stabilize a pressure-heavy identity, his preference could turn into more than talk.
Why it matters: For fans, these “who wants where” moments are more than personal preferences; they can foreshadow how teams build the kind of chemistry that shows up on Sundays.