Seahawks should consider 'underpriced' 49ers free agent if Ernest Jones leaves

The Seattle Seahawks may need a new linebacker if Ernest Jones IV doesn't re-sign. They may be able to find his replacement with the rival San Francisco 49ers.

January 20, 2024; Santa Clara, CA, USA; San Francisco 49ers linebacker Dre Greenlaw (57) tackles Green Bay Packers running back Emanuel Wilson (31) during the first quarter in a 2024 NFC divisional round game at Levi's Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-Imagn Images | Kyle Terada-Imagn Images

The Seattle Seahawks are hoping to re-sign linebacker Ernest Jones IV this offseason, but it is far from a slam dunk.

After a roller coaster year where Jones was with three teams in as many months, he may want to get a complete fresh start in free agency this offseason.

If Jones leaves in free agency, NFL.com analyst Kevin Patra suggests that the Seahawks should look at signing Dre Greenlaw away from the NFC West rival San Francisco 49ers.

Green Bay Packers running back Emanuel Wilson (31) hurdles San Francisco 49ers linebacker Dre Greenlaw (57) in the fourth quarter during their NFC divisional playoff football game Saturday, January 20, 2024, at Levi's Stadium in Santa Clara, California. | Dan Powers/USA TODAY NETWORK-Wisconsin / USA TODAY NETWORK

"Greenlaw will probably have to take a one-year prove-it deal after an Achilles injury suffered in Super Bowl LVIII last February wiped out most of his 2024 season -- and then when he did return, in Week 15, he made two starts before suffering a calf injury that landed him on injured reserve," Patra writes.

"A short-term agreement is probably smart for all parties, allowing Greenlaw to hit the market again next year while keeping his team safe in case he can't bounce back. But I'm betting he does; I'm betting on the difference-maker Greenlaw previously proved to be on the gridiron. In one half of football in 2024, he showed how much better the 49ers defense was when he was active. He's still 27 years old, and I'd be willing to roll the dice on a return to form in 2025."

It remains to be seen if Greenlaw will be healthy enough to get back to where he was before his calf and Achilles injuries. However, this could be a risk that pays off in the long run for the Seahawks if they go about it the right way.

Jan 14, 2023; Santa Clara, California, USA; Seattle Seahawks running back Kenneth Walker III (9) runs away from San Francisco 49ers linebacker Dre Greenlaw (57) for a second quarter touchdown run during a wild card game at Levi's Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Cary Edmondson-Imagn Images | Cary Edmondson-Imagn Images

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