The San Francisco 49ers are Facing Big Decisions as Key Players Head to Free Agency
As the 2025 season approaches, the San Francisco 49ers’ roster is poised for significant changes, with several core players heading to free agency. One of the most notable players in question is linebacker Dre Greenlaw, whose two-year, $16.4 million contract is set to expire this offseason.
Having spent all six years of his NFL career in San Francisco, Greenlaw has become a staple of the defense. However, with his contract expiring, he is expected to draw significant interest from other teams. According to Mason Cameron of Pro Football Focus, Greenlaw is one of the top linebackers hitting the open market, and the Detroit Lions are among the leading potential suitors.
Cameron highlighted Greenlaw’s potential landing spots, saying, “Potential Landing Spots: Detroit Lions, Indianapolis Colts.” He went on to explain, “Greenlaw spent much of this past season getting right after his Achilles injury during the 49ers’ run to the Super Bowl in 2023, which may leave some front offices hesitant to offer despite a need.”
However, Cameron noted that the Lions, who are projected to have the 10th-most cap space this offseason, could take a chance on Greenlaw, especially given his high ceiling as he approaches his age-28 season. With Alex Anzalone‘s contract expiring after this season, Detroit might look to add Greenlaw on a “prove it” deal, allowing him to play a complementary role while he recovers fully from his injury.
This offseason will be critical for the Lions, who need to bolster their defense after a rough end to the season. While speculation around Greenlaw joining Detroit is still hypothetical, it does seem plausible. However, the free agency period won’t officially begin until March, so we’ll have to wait for any concrete developments.
Stay tuned for more updates on the 49ers’ free agency decisions and the potential future of Dre Greenlaw.
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Three Detroit Lions Make 2025’s Top 100 Free Agent List
With the Detroit Lions’ season ending prematurely, they now face the task of evaluating expiring player contracts. Pro Football Focus (PFF) highlights three players they should prioritize keeping.
Carlton Davis III, Cornerback
Carlton Davis III ranked among the top 25 most valuable free agents. A former second-round pick, Davis joined the Lions in the offseason after spending time with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. In his first season with Detroit, Davis recorded 56 tackles, 1 forced fumble, and 2 interceptions in just 13 games, as he missed time due to a fractured jaw sustained during a game against the Buffalo Bills.
Kevin Zeitler, Offensive Guard
Kevin Zeitler, ranked six spots below Davis III, is an appealing free agent. The veteran guard and former first-round pick had one of his best seasons with Detroit, finishing with a pass-block rate of 78.8% and a run-block rate of 87.2%. Though Zeitler is approaching the end of his career, he still provides considerable value to any team.
Levi Onwuzirke, Defensive Tackle
Levi Onwuzirke, ranked 40th on PFF’s list of most valuable free agents, has shown promise but struggled with injuries throughout his four seasons in Detroit. During the 2024 season, Onwuzirke posted 16 tackles, 1.5 sacks, and 1 forced fumble. If he can stay healthy and have a breakout season, Onwuzirke could become an important contributor for any team.
