The San Francisco 49ers are bringing back a familiar face as linebacker Dre Greenlaw returns to the team on a one-year, $7.5 million deal. The move reunites the 49ers with a key contributor from their recent defensive success and provides valuable experience to a linebacker group that dealt with significant injuries last season.
Greenlaw originally joined the San Francisco team as a fifth-round pick in the 2019 NFL Draft and steadily developed into an important part of the defense. By 2022, he had secured a starting role, starting 30 games across the 2022 and 2023 seasons. During that span, he recorded 247 tackles, 1.5 sacks, 10 passes defended, one interception, and two forced fumbles. He also played a role in helping the team reach Super Bowl LVIII.
Dre Greenlaw Returns To 49ers Seeking Fresh Start After Injuries And Broncos Exit
However, Greenlaw’s momentum was halted by a devastating Achilles injury suffered during the Super Bowl while running from the sideline onto the field at Allegiant Stadium. The injury sidelined him for nearly the entire following season. After appearing in just two games in 2024, he left the 49ers to sign a three-year, $35 million deal with the Denver Broncos.
49ers Reunite With Dre Greenlaw On One-Year Deal To Bolster Linebacker DepthGreenlaw’s time in Denver proved short-lived. Injuries continued to limit his availability, and after one season, the Broncos released him while prioritizing other linebackers on their roster. That decision opened the door for his return to San Francisco.
Back with the 49ers, Greenlaw is expected to provide experienced depth and leadership rather than immediately reclaim a full-time starting role. The team learned the importance of reliable veteran depth last season when injuries disrupted the linebacking unit.
Greenlaw will also be working under a new defensive coordinator, Raheem Morris, who recently replaced Robert Saleh after Saleh departed to take the head coaching job with the Tennessee Titans. Approaching his 29th birthday in May, Greenlaw now looks to reestablish himself while helping strengthen San Francisco’s defense once again.
