The San Francisco 49ers face crucial defensive decisions as free agency approaches, weighing whether to keep their homegrown talent or pursue familiar faces from the New York Jets who understand Robert Saleh’s system.
But these choices might be slipping from their control.
According to The Athletic’s Matt Barrow, two significant defensive pieces could be headed elsewhere.
“I think the chances are better than not that Dre Greenlaw is gone. The same with Talanoa Hufanga,” Barrow reported.
His report added another layer of complexity to the 49ers’ offseason planning.
RUMORS: The 49ers could be losing two key defensive starters in free agency.
“I think the chances are better than not that Dre Greenlaw is gone. The same with Talanoa Hufanga.” – @mattbarrows. pic.twitter.com/bN8pozt429
— uSTADIUM (@uSTADIUM) February 12, 2025
Both Greenlaw and Hufanga represent classic 49ers success stories, rising from undervalued draft positions to become defensive cornerstones.
Their impact in 2023 was undeniable, though Greenlaw’s season ended painfully with a torn Achilles in the Super Bowl.
Now, despite their ascent to starring roles in San Francisco’s defense, their futures hang in the balance.
The presence of Fred Warner, Ji’Ayir Brown, and Malik Mustapha might make the 49ers hesitant to offer premium contracts to retain them.
Greenlaw’s situation is particularly intriguing. The talented linebacker saw action in just two games this season following his Super Bowl Achilles tear, but he’s expected to make a full recovery by 2025.
His combination of range, speed, and tackling prowess makes him an attractive option for teams seeking a high-caliber interior linebacker.
Meanwhile, Hufanga remains an impact player despite injury concerns that have limited him to 17 games over two seasons.
His knack for creating turnovers and effectiveness in defined coverage schemes could make him a valuable target for teams looking to boost their secondary with a versatile safety.
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