Linebacker Dre Greenlaw returned to the San Francisco 49ers this offseason after spending the 2025 season with the Denver Broncos. His reunion with All-Pro linebacker Fred Warner has many fans excited about the potential impact the duo can have on the defense in 2026.

Quarterback Brock Purdy is already seeing the benefits of having Greenlaw back in the building, believing the veteran linebacker can play a key role in reshaping the 49ers' defense this season.


Purdy spoke with reporters after Monday's practice, the second session of 49ers training camp, and was asked what Greenlaw's return means to the locker room.

"It's huge," Purdy said. "Obviously, when he came back, it was like, all right, he's like one of our brothers that came back. And it's almost like, let's pick up where we left off after that season when he left. But just his presence, the dog that he has when he steps on the field, it's like everyone feeds off that kind of energy."

Purdy acknowledged that Greenlaw's impact is already being felt on the practice field, even from the offensive side of the ball.

"Being on offense, I'll look across the ball and be like, 'Oh, shoot. You've got Dre Greenlaw next to Fred again,'" Purdy said. "And they're flying around, and they're filling the gaps. You could feel them. And so, just having him in our locker room, and his presence, is a real thing."

The 49ers hope Greenlaw's return will have a major impact on a defense looking to bounce back from an injury-riddled 2026 campaign.


"He's the bully," cornerback Deommodore Lenoir said. "We got our bully back. I was mad when he left because I know the intensity he plays with. He's going to go 110% every game, every practice, and I know that he's going to give it his all."

Beyond his playmaking ability, the veteran linebacker has already shown his value as a leader for the team's younger defenders.

"He looks out for all the young guys, too," Purdy said. "He's a real brother. But the minute that dude steps on the field, it's like you've got to be ready, and we all just want to go to war with him. So, I think it was a huge addition to get him back."

Greenlaw's energy, leadership, and physical style of play were missed during his season away from San Francisco. Now back alongside Warner, the 49ers believe the linebacker duo can once again become one of the NFL's most impactful defensive pairings.

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