While it’s premature to provide a definitive statement, there is optimism that Dre Greenlaw could potentially be back in action for the 49ers by the start of the 2024 regular season.
The linebacker for the San Francisco 49ers underwent surgery on his torn Achilles last week, a procedure initially anticipated to keep him sidelined for a significant portion of the year. However, advancements in technology have shortened the projected recovery time, making it plausible for Greenlaw to return in as little as six months.
Dr. Kenneth Jung, a foot and ankle surgeon and consultant to the Los Angeles Rams, expressed confidence in a six-month recovery timeline but emphasized that individual progress in rehabilitation and strength restoration would play a crucial role.
Greenlaw had been contending with Achilles tendinitis leading up to the 2024 postseason. Despite missing Week 18, he returned to the starting lineup two weeks later. Jung acknowledged the inherent risks players take when playing through pain, potentially contributing to the ligament’s complete tear.
Drawing on his experience with running back Cam Akers in 2021, Jung highlighted that while recovery time is essential, the true measure of readiness for football involves gaining confidence in the repaired tendon.
Wow! Dre Greenlaw could play in the 2024 regular-season opener according to surgeon:
“We can confidently tell patients that at six months, that’s a reasonable amount of time to be back. Of course, there are no absolutes. It depends a lot on how well he’s rehabbing and how well… pic.twitter.com/8gOHNBxE9E
— Coach Yac 🗣 (@Coach_Yac) February 23, 2024
Greenlaw underwent surgery in mid-February, aligning the six-month timeframe with mid-August, coinciding with the onset of training camp. The 49ers, prioritizing Greenlaw’s well-being, won’t rush his return but aim for an expedited comeback in the upcoming season.
In the 2023 season, the 26-year-old Greenlaw recorded 120 combined tackles, four pass break-ups, four quarterback hits, and 1.5 sacks. He is entering the final year of a two-year contract valued at $16.4 million.
Key offseason dates for the San Francisco 49ers:
– Tuesday, Feb. 20th – Teams can begin franchising players until Tuesday, March 5th
– Tuesday, Feb. 27 – NFL Combine begins
– Thursday, March 13 – The 2024 free agency signing period begins at 1 p.m. PST
