The San Francisco 49ers are a lot like the Cincinnati Bengals in the sense that both franchises are very close to achieving Super Bowl glory. But the 49ers have a leg up in one area.

San Francisco's linebacker unit is considered by most the best in the NFL, and Fred Warner, the two-time first-team All-Pro, is the spearhead. So any comparison to him is considered a huge compliment. 

Cincinnati's linebacker group isn't as polished as the 49ers, but Logan Wilson, a former third-round pick, recently had his game compared to that of Warner's.

In the Bengals' postseason run, Wilson had 23 total tackles, two stuffs and one forced fumble. "He's definitely one of the most underrated linebackers," an AFC scout said. "He's a little like Fred Warner lite. Big, strong player who's good against the pass but not afraid to mix it up in the run, gets everyone lined up and organized, leader." –Jeremy Fowler, ESPN

Wilson just put together his best season in terms of his coverage grade (73.6) and his run-defense grade (67.3). Also, Wilson's tackles (133), sacks (2.5), pass-rush grade (61.6), tackle grade (90.0), and defense grades (72.7) were all career highs as well in 2022, and his missed tackle percentage of 3.2 was a career low.

Another aspect of Wilson’s game that's extremely valuable is his discipline. Per Pro Football Focus, Wilson has not committed a penalty in three professional seasons. 

Wilson has quietly become one of the most productive and reliable defensive players in Cincinnati and he's a perfect complement to Germaine Pratt who leads the linebacker room in Cincinnati. 

Bengals’ team chemistry grows stronger for charity

Stuff like this is what it’s all about.

Feature image via Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports