Former Arkansas linebacker Dre Greenlaw faces an uncertain future as he enters free agency following his injury-shortened 2024 season with the San Francisco 49ers.
ESPN analyst Matt Bowen predicts Greenlaw will sign with the Indianapolis Colts, citing a potential fit in new coordinator Lou Anarumo’s defensive scheme.
“Greenlaw played in only two games last season (Weeks 15-16) after tearing an Achilles in Super Bowl LVIII. But at full strength — which he is expected to be in 2025 — he is a rangy linebacker with the pursuit speed to track ball carriers and the coverage awareness to close throwing windows,” Bowen wrote.
The 27-year-old linebacker recorded 120 tackles, 1.5 sacks and four defended passes in 15 games during the 2023 season before his Super Bowl injury.
Greenlaw’s NFL performance mirrors his collegiate success at Arkansas, where he compiled 320 tackles, 4.0 sacks, three interceptions, three forced fumbles, three fumble recoveries and three defended passes over four seasons.
The Colts need help at weakside linebacker, making them a logical destination. However, the 49ers haven’t ruled out re-signing their veteran defender.
Greenlaw’s recovery timeline puts him on track to return at full strength for the 2025 season. His combination of range and coverage skills should attract multiple suitors in free agency, despite coming off the Achilles injury.
During his time at Arkansas, Greenlaw established himself as a defensive playmaker before San Francisco selected him in the 2019 NFL Draft.
The 49ers must decide whether to retain Greenlaw as part of their linebacker corps or let him test the open market when free agency begins.
