Things are quickly unraveling for the San Francisco 49ers, and the biggest question remaining is how lasting the damage will be. At 6-8, the 49ers find themselves at the bottom of the NFC West, barely clinging to any hopes of a playoff berth. With the postseason looking increasingly out of reach, it seems likely that they will miss the playoffs for the first time since 2020. This raises a critical question: how will this affect their future?
Defensive Struggles in 2023
The 49ers’ once-vaunted defense has been mediocre at best this season. Many fans might be inclined to point fingers at injuries, and they have certainly played a role. Star defensive end Nick Bosa has missed several games, while linebacker Fred Warner has been battling through a fractured ankle for three months. To add to the woes, another key player only made his return last week.
Dre Greenlaw, a massive contributor to the 49ers’ Super Bowl run last season, made his much-anticipated return in the 49ers’ 12-6 loss to the Los Angeles Rams on Thursday. However, just as soon as he came back, whispers about his future began to circulate. Could he be on his way out the door?
The Future of Dre Greenlaw
Recently, predictions have emerged that Greenlaw could sign with the Denver Broncos during this spring’s free-agency window. This speculation comes from Alex Ballentine of Bleacher Report, who believes that the Broncos are poised to be a breakout unit in the 2024 season.
"The Broncos have to be considered the breakout unit of the 2024 season," Ballentine stated. "A lot of that is due to a group of pass-rushers that took a step forward and a strong secondary. The middle of the defense could still use more juice."
Dre Greenlaw has missed most of this season but made his return to the Niners lineup on Thursday. With more time to recover from the torn Achilles he suffered last postseason, he should be even better next season. But will it be with the 49ers?
Greenlaw’s Impressive Career
Greenlaw, 27, has made a name for himself in the league. Over his six-year career, he has accumulated 427 total tackles and 18 tackles for loss. His standout performance came against the Green Bay Packers in last year’s playoffs, where he recorded two of his five career interceptions, including a game-sealing pick on the final drive. His ability to make big plays when it matters most has solidified his reputation as one of the league’s most talented linebackers when healthy.
But will the 49ers be able to keep him? Greenlaw is likely due for a pay raise on the two-year, $16.4 million deal San Francisco gave him in 2023. With the team facing a high amount of expected roster turnover, it’s uncertain whether they will front the cost to keep him in town.
Implications for the 49ers
The potential loss of Greenlaw would be a significant blow for the 49ers. His leadership and playmaking ability are invaluable, especially during a season that has already seen its fair share of struggles. With the defense faltering and the team’s playoff hopes dwindling, how can the 49ers regroup?
Injuries have certainly taken a toll, but the team must also address the broader issues affecting their performance. The question now is whether they can turn things around before the end of the season. With a high amount of expected roster turnover, the 49ers need to make some tough decisions. Will they invest in keeping key players like Greenlaw, or will they look to rebuild?
Looking Ahead
As the 49ers navigate this challenging season, fans are left wondering what the future holds. Will they be able to bounce back and contend in the coming years, or are they facing a prolonged rebuilding phase?
The upcoming offseason will be crucial. Decisions made now could shape the franchise for years to come. The 49ers must weigh the importance of retaining key players against the need for fresh talent to reinvigorate the roster.
In the meantime, the team has to focus on the games ahead. Each matchup is an opportunity to build momentum, even as the playoff picture looks bleak. With the right adjustments and a bit of luck, the 49ers could still finish the season strong.
As the dust settles on this tumultuous season, one thing is clear: the 49ers have a lot of soul-searching to do. Can they rise from the ashes and reclaim their place among the NFL’s elite? Only time will tell.
