It seems the Detroit Lions will have plenty of options to consider as they shape their roster during the offseason. The team has already been mentioned as a potential trade destination for high-profile players like Myles Garrett, Cooper Kupp, and Maxx Crosby. These are just some of the biggest names in potential trades, not including the top players they might target in free agency. In free agency, the Lions could be in the mix for a linebacker who has played in two Super Bowls within his first six seasons in the league. In an article about the best landing spots for this year’s top linebackers, Pro Football Focus’ Mason Cameron identified the Lions as a top destination for San Francisco 49ers linebacker Dre Greenlaw. When healthy, Greenlaw has consistently been a productive player during his six years with the 49ers.
He recorded 92 tackles as a rookie and followed it up with 86 tackles in 13 games the following season. In his third year, Greenlaw missed most of the season due to injury, but he came back strong in year four. He made 127 tackles and forced two fumbles in that season, which earned him a two-year contract worth $16.4 million. His first year under the new contract was another successful campaign, with 120 tackles and five for a loss. However, Greenlaw spent most of the 2024 season recovering from an injury, leaving some teams uncertain about what they can expect from him going forward. This could present an opportunity to sign him at a discount for teams willing to take a risk on him returning to his previous form, and the Lions might be one of those teams. The Lions could have a vacancy at linebacker this offseason, as Derrick Barnes is set to become a free agent and there are rumors that Aaron Glenn may seek a reunion. If Barnes leaves, Greenlaw could be a strong replacement to join a Lions linebacker group that dealt with injuries last season and needs help improving their run defense.