San Francisco 49ers’ Nick Bosa has explained why linebacker Dre Greenlaw is such a popular teammate. The star defensive end pointed to the emotion and intensity he brings to the defense.

Ahead of San Francisco’s Week 2 matchup against the Miami Dolphins, Bosa also called Greenlaw his favorite teammate he has played with.

“It’s amazing. Dre is my favorite teammate I’ve ever played with on the field, so to have him back is awesome,” Bosa said via CBS Sports Bay Area reporter Matt Lively. “He wears his emotions on his sleeve, and you can feel the energy and the anger. When you play defense, it’s fun to be a part of.”

Different #49ers have called Dre Greenlaw their favorite teammate or player to watch.

Nick Bosa explains why. pic.twitter.com/j3WdT0FIJ8

— Matt Lively (@mattblively) September 17, 2026

 

Bosa and Greenlaw entered the NFL together in 2019 and quickly became important pieces of the 49ers’ defense. They reunited on the field in Week 1 during San Francisco’s 27-7 win over the Los Angeles Rams in Melbourne, Australia.

The two defenders combined for 10 tackles, two tackles for loss, and a quarterback hit as the 49ers controlled the game defensively.
Greenlaw’s return followed a difficult season with the Denver Broncos. After recovering from the Achilles injury he suffered during Super Bowl LVIII, the linebacker signed a three-year, $35 million contract with Denver in 2025.

His first season with the Broncos was interrupted by injuries, and Denver released him in March. The 49ers then moved quickly to bring back their former linebacker, signing him to a one-year, $7.5 million contract.

Greenlaw now joins Fred Warner and Deommodore Lenoir as key pieces of San Francisco’s defense. His aggressive playing style also gives the unit another emotional leader alongside Bosa.