SANTA CLARA, Calif. — The San Francisco 49ers experienced a significant shift on their defensive roster Thursday, welcoming back a familiar face while saying goodbye to a rising talent. Linebacker Dre Greenlaw agreed to a one-year deal with the team, while defensive end Bryce Huff announced his unexpected retirement from the NFL.
Greenlaw’s return comes after a single season with the Denver Broncos, a move that didn’t pan out as hoped for either party. The linebacker signed a three-year, $31.5 million contract with Denver last March, but injuries and a suspension limited his playing time. According to ESPN, the 49ers and Greenlaw reached an agreement for a contract worth up to $7.5 million.
Greenlaw, originally a fifth-round pick by the 49ers in 2019, quickly became a fan favorite for his aggressive and relentless style of play. However, injuries have been a recurring issue throughout his career, culminating in a torn Achilles tendon suffered during Super Bowl LVIII. He has played in only 10 regular season games over the past two seasons. His return provides a boost to a linebacker corps that also includes Fred Warner, a cornerstone of the 49ers defense.
The departure of Huff, though unexpected, creates a need for the 49ers to address their pass rush. The 27-year-old announced his retirement via Instagram, citing a desire to pursue a new venture. Huff’s decision came just before he was set to receive a $1 million roster bonus and before the team had to decide on a $14.6 million option bonus for the 2026 season. According to OverTheCap, the 49ers will save $5.3 million against the salary cap as a result of Huff’s retirement.
Huff joined the NFL as an undrafted free agent in 2020, signing with the New York Jets. He had a breakout season in 2023 under then-Jets coach Robert Saleh, recording 10 sacks and 21 quarterback hits. That performance earned him a three-year, $51 million contract with the Philadelphia Eagles, but he struggled to find a consistent role in their defensive scheme. The 49ers acquired Huff in a trade prior to the 2025 season, reuniting him with Saleh in San Francisco.
In his single season with the 49ers, Huff registered 30 tackles, four sacks, and 15 quarterback hits in 15 games. He explained his decision to retire in a video posted to social media, stating he felt he had more to offer the world than just football. “This sport has been my life. I’ve been playing since I was 4 years old, but at 27 years old, I recognize I’m capable of offering the world something more than just football,” Huff said in the video. He plans to focus on his company, Naberstone, which aims to improve safety infrastructure related to lithium-ion batteries.
The timing of Huff’s retirement is notable, given the team’s need for pass-rushing depth. The 49ers will likely explore options in the upcoming NFL Draft and free agency to fill the void left by his departure. The team’s defensive success hinges on its ability to consistently pressure opposing quarterbacks, and finding a replacement for Huff will be a priority.
Greenlaw’s return, however, provides stability to the linebacker position. He is expected to resume his role as the team’s weakside linebacker, playing alongside Warner. Dee Winters, who started all 17 games at the position in 2025 and recorded 101 tackles and one interception, will likely see his role adjusted with Greenlaw back in the lineup.
The 49ers now turn their attention to the upcoming NFL Draft, where they will seem to address their needs on the defensive line and potentially add depth at other positions. The team is coming off a Super Bowl LVIII appearance, and they are determined to return to the championship game in the 2026 season. The additions and subtractions on the roster this offseason will play a crucial role in their pursuit of another Lombardi Trophy.
The 49ers’ next key date is the start of the NFL Draft on April 23rd. Fans can follow the draft coverage on ESPN and the NFL Network. The team will also hold organized team activities (OTAs) in May, providing another opportunity to evaluate the roster and prepare for the upcoming season.
