The San Francisco 49ers are facing a pivotal moment in their linebacker corps following Dre Greenlaw's departure in free agency. With no significant moves in the free agent market, GM John Lynch hinted that the team might not need to seek an external replacement. Third-year linebacker Dee Winters, a 2023 sixth-round pick, is positioned for a potential starting role alongside Fred Warner. Winters, who saw a notable increase in playing time last season, is backed by fellow rookie Jalen Graham and second-year player Tatum Bethune as they compete for the Will LB spot.

Winters' stats, including 44 tackles and five pass breakups over his first two seasons, suggest he could be ready to step up. The potential for additional linebacker depth through the draft also looms, as the 49ers aim to solidify their defense. With a new lens from defensive coordinator Robert Saleh, the team is optimistic about Winters’ development and the overall linebacker situation heading into offseason training.