NFL Teams Eyeing Dre Greenlaw as Free Agency Approaches

DENVER, Colo. — The Denver Broncos, along with the Atlanta Falcons and Houston Texans, are reportedly interested in signing linebacker Dre Greenlaw as the NFL free agency period approaches. Sources, including The Athletic’s Mike Silver, indicate that Greenlaw, a standout linebacker for the San Francisco 49ers, is a sought-after player in the upcoming signing window.

Greenlaw, 28, is emerging as the top free agent linebacker available after other notable free agents, such as Zack Baun and Bobby Wagner, agreed to terms to stay with their teams. Despite an Achilles injury that limited Greenlaw to just two games last season, his previous performances, including over 120 tackles in each of the preceding two seasons, solidify his value in the league.

“The 49ers really want Dre Greenlaw to return. At least three other teams really want him,” Silver noted, emphasizing the competitive landscape surrounding his potential departure from San Francisco. The Broncos, facing a dire need at the linebacker position, view Greenlaw as a perfect fit to bolster their defensive line-up.

Head coach Sean Payton has highlighted the need for positional improvements on defense, particularly at inside linebacker. With an aging roster and questions surrounding current players, Greenlaw’s acquisition could be a significant upgrade. However, his recent injury history raises concerns about his durability.

“Greenlaw could reunite with his former training camp roommate in Houston. The presence of DeMeco Ryans could make a significant difference in his decision-making,” Silver added, noting that despite the Texans’ limited cap space, the allure of returning to Texas could influence Greenlaw’s choice.

The Atlanta Falcons are also looking to improve their defensive roster with Greenlaw in mind. Following the release of key player Grady Jarrett, Atlanta faces significant challenges on the field, prompting their interest in Greenlaw as they seek to fill defensive gaps.

“Dre Greenlaw would be a tremendous upgrade, but Atlanta has numerous other areas that require immediate attention,” said a source close to the Falcons’ organization. The Falcons are particularly in need of edge rushers, yet Greenlaw’s addition could offer the team a chance to fortify their linebacker corps.

As free agency looms, the Broncos possess considerable financial flexibility, with approximately $40 million available under the salary cap, allowing them to aggressively pursue free agent talent. Meanwhile, the Texans and Falcons each have just over $4 million and $9 million respectively, limiting their ability to negotiate substantial contracts.

With the legal tampering period beginning soon, the Broncos are expected to finalize their plans and determine how aggressively they will pursue Greenlaw. “If they miss out on him, the linebacker market will get pretty thin,” cautioned one analyst, suggesting that the Broncos may need to pivot to alternative options such as Raiders linebacker Robert Spillane if Greenlaw signs elsewhere.

As the countdown to March 12 continues, the NFL community watches closely to see where Dre Greenlaw will land and how his decision will impact the teams vying for his talents in free agency.