The San Francisco 49ers are eager to find a way to retain linebacker Dre Greenlaw for at least one more season, as he is set to become a free agent in March.
Greenlaw played just two games last season after recovering from a torn Achilles he sustained in February. Unfortunately, another setback forced him to miss the final two games, which took away from his otherwise inspiring return.
Greenlaw is sure to attract interest from other teams in free agency, but his injury history may cause hesitation among suitors, with many likely to only offer one-year deals.
Such a development could benefit the 49ers if they attempt to bring Greenlaw back for the 2025 season, though much will depend on the team's salary cap situation. With quarterback Brock Purdy set to sign a lucrative contract extension, managing the cap will be a challenge.
Pro Football Focus analyst Mason Cameron identified two teams as potential landing spots for Greenlaw—neither of which was the 49ers.
The Detroit Lions
Cameron first mentions the Detroit Lions as a potential suitor, noting they may be less concerned about Greenlaw's injury history. Detroit is also projected to have significant salary cap space, with an estimated $46.5 million, according to OverTheCap.com.
"With Alex Anzalone's contract set to expire after this season, Greenlaw could come in on a 'prove it' deal to play a supplemental role in Detroit while he attempts to regain his form post-injury," Cameron wrote.
The Indianapolis Colts
Cameron also points to the Indianapolis Colts as a possibility. He highlights the Colts' ninth-highest-graded defense (74.4) in 2024, primarily driven by linebacker Zaire Franklin, who led the NFL with 173 tackles, according to Pro Football Reference.
"However, coverage at the linebacker position left something to be desired in this defense with both Franklin and his running mate, E.J. Speed (UFA this offseason), earning coverage grades under 48.0," Cameron explained. "Inserting Greenlaw into the lineup would be a sizable upgrade, as he produced 82.6 and 79.5 coverage grades in his last two full seasons."
As Greenlaw enters free agency, his injury history may affect his market value, but his potential to bounce back and make an impact could persuade a team to take a chance on him.
On Wednesday, linebacker Fred Warner was asked how much he wants to see Greenlaw return to the 49ers in 2025.
"Oh, man, as bad as anybody," Warner responded. "That's the guy, I feel like, that has allowed me to ascend in this league ... because of his ascension and the type of player that he is, how unselfish of a player that he is, how ferocious of a human being in a player that he is.
"And so, people, they look at me, but you can't see me without him, so I hope we get him back."