The San Francisco 49ers only brought in a few free agents from outside the organization this offseason, but only one of them knows what it’s like to play in San Francisco before – linebacker Dre Greenlaw.
Greenlaw, 29, spent the first six years of his career with the 49ers, recording 455 tackles (18 for a loss), 14 passes defensed, nine quarterback hits, 3.5 sacks, three interceptions, two forced fumbles and two fumble recoveries in 64 games.
Last offseason, Greenlaw signed a three-year contract with the Denver Broncos worth $35 million. Injuries and a suspension led to the veteran appearing in just eight games last year and recording 43 tackles, two passes defensed, one sack, forced fumble and one interception.
Back with the 49ers on a one-year deal, CBS Sports’ Josh Edwards recently listed Greenlaw as a veteran set to experience a resurgence in 2026.
San Francisco had a problem with their depth last year, especially at linebacker as Fred Warner, Tatum Bethune, Curtis Robinson and Nick Martin all dealt with injuries at the position, which forced the team to rely heavily on Dee Winters, Luke Gifford, Eric Kendricks and Garret Wallow late in the year.
Having Greenlaw, who has the experience playing in this defense alongside Warner, back on the field should help the 49ers drastically in 2026, especially with Raheem Morris taking over as San Francisco’s defensive coordinator.
More 49ers: Super Bowl champion LB says 49ers’ scheme gave him nightmares
This article originally appeared on Niners Wire: Will return of familiar face revamp 49ers defense?
About the Author
