The San Francisco 49ers’ linebacking corps took another hit on Sunday when Dre Greenlaw was forced to exit early in the first quarter of their matchup with the Miami Dolphins. Greenlaw, who missed most of the season with a torn left Achilles tendon, suffered a right calf injury after playing just four defensive snaps.
It was a frustrating development for the fourth-year linebacker, who had returned to action just one week prior in a loss to the Los Angeles Rams. In that contest, Greenlaw split time with De’Vondre Campbell before Campbell declined to re-enter the game, citing Greenlaw’s injury. That refusal led to a three-game suspension for Campbell due to conduct detrimental to the team.
Another Setback for Greenlaw
Sunday’s game marked Greenlaw’s second appearance since suffering the Achilles tear, an injury that cost him 12 games. He managed just 30 snaps against the Rams in Week 15 while dealing with knee and Achilles soreness that limited him in practice.
After the early exit against Miami, Greenlaw was visibly frustrated on the sideline. He attempted to stretch and walk it off but was ultimately ruled out after halftime. The severity of the calf injury is not yet known, but it’s another unwelcome obstacle in what has become an injury-marred career for the 2019 fifth-round draft pick out of Arkansas.
Injury History Piling Up
Since entering the league, Greenlaw has now missed 34 of a possible 98 regular season games due to various ailments, including quad, groin, hamstring, and calf issues in addition to the Achilles tear. It’s a concerning trend for a player who is set to hit unrestricted free agency in the offseason.
“I think just at this particular time and in my career, you can’t afford to get hurt too much more. I don’t want to be in this position again next year where I got to watch the whole team do it. I try my best to be as smart as I can on it.”
– Dre Greenlaw on his injury struggles
With Greenlaw sidelined, the 49ers turned to second-year linebacker Dee Winters at the weakside spot, with Demetrius Flannigan-Fowles manning the strongside position in base packages. How the team proceeds will likely depend on the prognosis for Greenlaw’s calf issue.
Free Agent Outlook Murky
The litany of injuries, combined with the four-game suspension to Campbell late in the year, leaves the 49ers with significant question marks at linebacker looking ahead to 2024. Both Greenlaw and Campbell are slated for free agency, while 2022 third-round pick Curtis Robinson is coming off a torn ACL of his own.
For Greenlaw, who has flashed immense potential when healthy, the inability to stay on the field could prove costly as he seeks a new contract. Teams will undoubtedly weigh his playmaking ability against his worrisome durability concerns. After another abbreviated campaign, Greenlaw’s future with the franchise that drafted him looks increasingly uncertain.
