49ers Defeated Broncos Behind Greenlaw Performance
The San Francisco 49ers improved to 4-0 after beating the Denver Broncos 24-14.
Updated on Oct. 5, 2026 in Football
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The San Francisco 49ers extended their winning streak to 4-0 with a 24-14 victory over the Denver Broncos. Linebacker Dre Greenlaw led the defensive effort with 12 tackles, while George Kittle secured the win with a 56-yard touchdown.
Why it matters
The 49ers re-signed Dre Greenlaw to bolster their defensive performance, an acquisition that proved pivotal in holding the Broncos to lower efficiency while he was on the field. The result keeps the 49ers undefeated as they look to maintain their position in the current season standings.
Dre Greenlaw recorded 12 tackles and two quarterback pressures on nine pass rushes during the game. George Kittle contributed to the 24-14 victory by scoring a 56-yard touchdown.
The players
Dre Greenlaw
He is a linebacker for the San Francisco 49ers who previously played for the Denver Broncos.
George Kittle
He is a professional football player for the San Francisco 49ers known for his receiving capabilities.
Sean Payton
He serves as the head coach of the Denver Broncos.
The details
Dre Greenlaw confronted Denver head coach Sean Payton 9:12 into the first quarter, pointing at him and shouting from five yards away. The 49ers defense held Denver to significantly lower rushing efficiency when Greenlaw was active in the game compared to when he was resting.
Timeline
Dre Greenlaw tore his Achilles in Super Bowl LVIII during 2024.
Dre Greenlaw played for the Denver Broncos throughout the 2025 season.
The 49ers defeated the Broncos 24-14 on Sunday, October 4, 2026.
Greenlaw confronted Sean Payton with 9:12 left in the first quarter.
Season Trajectory
The 49ers remain undefeated at 4-0, positioning them as a top contender for playoff seeding early in the season. Greenlaw's effective return bolsters their defensive depth against teams like the Broncos, who released him following his 2025 campaign.
The 49ers now sit at a 4-0 record, solidifying their standing atop their division. With Greenlaw providing 12 tackles, fantasy managers and observers should note his improved efficiency impact on the 49ers' defensive rush defense.
The takeaway
The game demonstrated the defensive impact of healthy veteran contributors in a high-stakes environment. Readers should monitor team injury reports as recurring physical issues like Achilles tears can significantly influence a player's seasonal availability and effectiveness.
Further reading
For more on local sports, visit the Football section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Santa Rosa Press Democrat.
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