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Former Arkansas LB Signs With Broncos

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Alec Elijah | Last updated Mar 11, 2025 7:14 PM ET

The Denver Broncos have bolstered their linebacker corps with the signing of former San Francisco 49ers standout Dre Greenlaw. The veteran linebacker, known for his physicality and coverage skills, joins Denver on a three-year, $35 million contract, bringing both potential and injury concerns to the Broncos' defense.

A Proven Playmaker When Healthy

Greenlaw, a fifth-round pick out of Arkansas in 2019, emerged as a key contributor for the 49ers early in his career. His impact was immediate, highlighted by his game-saving tackle against the Seattle Seahawks in the 2019 season finale, which helped San Francisco clinch the NFC West and home-field advantage throughout the playoffs. Over his career, he has accumulated 455 tackles, 3.5 sacks, three interceptions, and 14 passes defended, proving to be one of the league's more productive off-ball linebackers.

His best seasons came in 2022 and 2023 when he combined for 147 tackles while forming an elite linebacker duo with Fred Warner. His strong coverage ability and aggressive tackling made him a vital piece of the 49ers’ defense. Pro Football Focus once ranked him as a top-25 linebacker, with his highest rating coming in 2022 when he was ninth among all linebackers.

Injury Concerns Loom Large

Despite his talent, Greenlaw has struggled to stay healthy throughout his career. He has missed 36 games due to various injuries, including quad, groin, hamstring, and Achilles issues. His most recent setback came in Super Bowl LVIII, where he suffered a torn Achilles. Though he battled back to return late in the 2024 season, he played only two games before being shut down due to a calf injury.

His durability remains a significant question mark, as he has completed a full season only once—his rookie year. Denver will be hoping for a healthy Greenlaw, as his presence could dramatically improve a linebacker unit that struggled with injuries last season.

A Fresh Start in Denver

Greenlaw now reunites with former 49ers teammate Talanoa Hufanga, who also signed with Denver on a three-year, $45 million deal. He is expected to step into the role previously held by Cody Barton, who departed for the Tennessee Titans in free agency. Greenlaw will line up alongside Alex Singleton, who is returning from an ACL injury, making their linebacker unit one of the more intriguing in the AFC.

While Denver has taken a risk by signing Greenlaw, given his injury history, his ability when healthy is undeniable. If he can stay on the field, the Broncos will have secured one of the best value signings of this free agency period.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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