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49ers sign former All-Pro LB as Dre Greenlaw’s successor…………………….
In addition to losing a number of high-profile defenders to free agency this week, the San Francisco 49ers will likely be without linebacker Dre Greenlaw for the most of the upcoming season because of an Achilles tear.
On Wednesday, the Niners agreed to a one-year contract with Eric Kendricks, a former linebacker for the Los Angeles Chargers, who might be a prospective Greenlaw replacement.
New 49ers LB Eric Kendricks is expected to try to help replace Dre Greenlaw, who tore his Achilles during the Super Bowl. https://t.co/NfBUIPT0c6
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) March 13, 2024
Though not all of the signings have been confirmed, San Francisco is anticipated to bid farewell to defensive lineman Javon Kinlaw and edge rusher Clelin Ferrell, who will be joining the Washington Commanders and New York Jets, respectively. The squad also bid farewell to recently released 2015 first-round selection Arik Armstead and standout defensive end Chase Young.
With or without players like Ferrell, Greenlaw, Kinlaw, and maybe others, the Niners should have one of the best defenses in 2024.
Apart from the bunch of linebackers that The Athletic’s David Lombardi identified, the reigning NFC champs ought to have one of the league’s top defensive lines returning.
Stars like two-time Pro Bowler Javon Hargrave and four-time Pro Bowl edge rusher Nick Bosa are likely to return for the 49ers, even if they lose Young.
Although Kendricks is probably past his peak at age 32, he was nevertheless effective in his one and only season with the Chargers.
After spending eight years with the Minnesota Vikings, the First Team All-Pro and 2019 Pro Bowl player had a strong season in Los Angeles. In addition to finishing the previous season tied for third on the team in tackles for loss (seven), Kendricks recorded seven quarterback hits, six passes defended, and 3.5 sacks.