Could a Dre Greenlaw Reunion Be in the Cards for the 49ers?
Injuries and the San Francisco 49ers have long had an unfortunate relationship, and no position group felt that sting more in 2025 than linebacker. The low point? Losing All-Pro Fred Warner to a significant ankle injury in Week 6-a blow that shook the core of the defense.
Now, losing Warner was bad enough. But it hurt even more knowing his longtime running mate, Dre Greenlaw, was no longer around to help steady the ship. The 49ers made a push to keep Greenlaw in the building last offseason, but he ultimately chose to test the market and landed a three-year deal with the Denver Broncos.
It looked like a fresh start for Greenlaw-a chance to step out of Warner’s shadow and become the guy in Denver. But things didn’t go according to plan.
A string of injuries derailed his season, limiting him to just eight games and a rotating list of ailments: groin, ankle, hamstring, quad. You name it, it probably showed up on the Broncos’ injury report next to Greenlaw’s name.
For 49ers fans, that’s a familiar story. Greenlaw had his share of injury setbacks in San Francisco too.
But when healthy, his impact was undeniable. Physical, instinctive, and fast-he was a tone-setter on the field and a trusted lieutenant next to Warner.
Now, with Denver reportedly considering potential cap casualties this offseason, Greenlaw’s name has surfaced as a possible cut candidate. The Broncos could save $6 million in cap space by moving on, and given his limited availability in 2025, it’s a decision that may be on the table.
So, what if Greenlaw hits the market again? Would the 49ers pick up the phone?
There’s a compelling case to be made. Warner is expected to return at full strength for the 2026 season, but the depth behind him is still a question mark.
Dee Winters and Tatum Bethune held their own last year, but neither has the sideline-to-sideline range or experience Greenlaw brings. And 2025 rookie Nick Martin has yet to deliver on his potential.
Sure, any reunion would come with risk-Greenlaw’s injury history is well-documented. But that same concern could make him more affordable. A team-friendly deal could be the sweet spot for both sides: the Niners get a familiar, high-upside linebacker at a manageable cost, and Greenlaw gets a chance to reset in a system where he thrived.
Of course, this all hinges on Denver’s decision. If the Broncos are willing to ride it out and hope for a healthier, more productive Greenlaw in 2026, San Francisco won’t get the chance to bring him home. But if he’s cut loose, don’t be surprised if the 49ers are one of the first teams in line.
Reunions in the NFL are never guaranteed, but sometimes, the fit is just too good to ignore.