The San Francisco 49ers missed the playoffs this season after reaching the Super Bowl in the previous season. They face some tough free agency decisions and could lose some key players.
Among their free agents is Dre Greenlaw. Greenlaw signed a two-year, $16 million extension in 2022. Greenlaw missed most of the season after tearing his Achilles in the Super Bowl. Last Word on Sports’ Jack Aaron noted that the New England Patriots could land the star linebacker.
“That injury kept him out for the vast majority of 2024 and by the time he came back, the 49ers’ playoff hopes were an afterthought,” wrote Aaron. “In the one meaningful showing he’s had, he displayed the same knowledge and athleticism that made many consider him elite. For any team trying to rebuild their defense, Greenlaw would be a fantastic starting point.”
The Patriots will be an interesting team this offseason. They are searching for a new head coach, but have a promising young quarterback. With room to spend they will be trying to build an elite roster around him. Greenlaw would be a great addition to their defense. In 2023 he started 15 games. He recorded 1.5 sacks, 120 tackles and four passes defended.
Even though he missed most of last season, he is a talented player and will be looking for an opportunity to show he can still be an elite player. He could be a veteran presence on any young team as well.
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