Overview
- The 49ers re-signed Dre Greenlaw on a one-year contract this offseason to reunite him with Fred Warner and slot him as the expected starter at weakside linebacker.
- Analysts including FOX Sports’ Ben Arthur named Greenlaw the team’s top X-factor for 2026 because the defense historically performed better with him on the field.
- Greenlaw missed much of the 2024 and 2025 seasons after tearing his Achilles before Super Bowl LVIII and then suffering quad and hamstring issues in Denver, limiting him to eight games in 2025.
- Reports describe the deal as a fully guaranteed, one-year pact that gives the 49ers roster flexibility while they monitor his recovery and availability for a full season.
- The 49ers added veteran help on both sides of the ball this offseason, and Greenlaw’s ability to stay healthy will be a key test for how much he can change the team’s defensive outlook in 2026.