The San Francisco 49ers are heading into NFL free agency hoping to retain star linebacker Dre Greenlaw, but there’s a significant chance they may lose him.
While the 49ers could find a way to keep him, multiple teams are expected to pursue the talented linebacker.
Greenlaw suffered a freak Achilles injury during the Super Bowl against the Kansas City Chiefs, which limited him to just two games in the 2024 season.
According to Michael Silver of The Athletic, while San Francisco wants to re-sign Greenlaw, at least three other teams are prepared to make a move for him.
“The 49ers really want Dre Greenlaw to return. At least three other teams really want him. It will be hard for the 49ers to keep Fred Warner’s partner in grime–not impossible, though.”
In the 2023 season, Greenlaw played 16 games and showcased his impact on the field, recording 120 tackles, 1.5 sacks, and four passes defended.
At 27, soon to be 28, he possesses the ability to cover the field from sideline to sideline—a highly sought-after skill for any defense. If he fully recovers, he’s expected to return to his dominant form.
While some teams may hesitate due to his injury, Greenlaw remains on track to reclaim his star status. Whichever team secures him in free agency will gain a valuable asset—perhaps even the 49ers.
What the Rams Signing Davante Adams Means for the 49ers
The NFC West just got significantly more competitive.
The Los Angeles Rams have signed wide receiver Davante Adams to a two-year, $46 million contract, per ESPN’s Adam Schefter. This move puts added pressure on the 49ers.
While San Francisco didn’t necessarily need to sign Adams, their focus has been on getting younger and managing their finances after several costly roster decisions in recent years. Meanwhile, the Rams are aggressively strengthening their squad.
Los Angeles, who gave the Eagles a tough challenge in the playoffs, now boasts one of the league’s best receiving duos with Adams and Puka Nacua. They may even surpass the Eagles in offensive firepower.
In contrast, the 49ers’ biggest offseason moves will likely involve contract extensions for Brock Purdy and possibly George Kittle. That means they aren’t significantly improving while the Rams are making bold upgrades.
As a result, the 49ers’ chances of winning the division—or realistically competing for the Super Bowl—seem slim. They appear to be taking a reset year in 2025 to stabilize their finances, aiming for a stronger push in 2026.
If that’s the case, they should be upfront with fans. Instead of selling unrealistic expectations, they should acknowledge their strategic step back, ensuring a more competitive future in 2026.
