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49ers Bring Back Dre Greenlaw as Luke Gifford Yields No. 57

Gifford’s public handoff sets the tone for offseason decisions on how San Francisco deploys its linebackers.

Overview

  • San Francisco re-signed Luke Gifford and reunited with linebacker Dre Greenlaw, reshaping the unit early in the offseason.
  • After the team’s Instagram showed Gifford in No. 57, Gifford posted that “5-7 is all Dre,” confirming Greenlaw will reclaim his longtime jersey.
  • Greenlaw wore No. 57 for the 49ers from 2019 through 2024, spent 2025 with Denver, and is back on what PFF describes as a one-year, $7.5 million deal.
  • Coaches are expected to sort out roles under new defensive coordinator Raheem Morris, with analysts suggesting packages that could keep Greenlaw and Dee Winters on the field together.
  • PFF notes Greenlaw posted a career-best 86.9 run-defense grade in 2025 as his coverage grade dipped to 64.4, and Kyle Shanahan has praised his run-and-hit style.