Linebacker Dre Greenlaw is set to rejoin the San Francisco 49ers. He is agreeing to terms on a one-year contract, according to a source speaking to ESPN’s Nick Wagoner.
Greenlaw’s return follows his departure in free agency last year.
NFL Network reports the deal is for $7.5 million.
Greenlaw’s Brief Broncos Tenure
Greenlaw had signed a three-year, $31.5 million contract with the Denver Broncos last year. He spent his first five seasons with the 49ers.
However, Denver released Greenlaw this week.
In his single season with the Broncos, Greenlaw recorded 43 tackles. He also had an interception and a forced fumble across eight games. Greenlaw added 10 tackles in two playoff games.
Broncos’ Expectations and Greenlaw’s Challenges
The Broncos had hoped Greenlaw would bring physicality to their defense. They aimed to improve their ability to limit opponents’ explosive runs after the 2024 season.
However, Greenlaw missed the offseason program and the Broncos’ first six games of the season due to thigh injuries.
He also received a one-game suspension. This was for a postgame confrontation with referee Brad Allen after the Broncos’ win over the New York Giants, and caused him to miss the Broncos’ Oct. 26 win over the Dallas Cowboys. The NFL stated Greenlaw “chased after referee Brad Allen and verbally threatened him as he tried to leave the field.”
Career Stats
- Greenlaw has 498 tackles in his career.
- He also has 4.5 sacks.
- Greenlaw has four interceptions.
Greenlaw, 28, now returns to the 49ers after a year away.