Dre Greenlaw grew up with his adoptive parents.
Dre Greenlaw discussing his adoptive parents (Via X)
Life was challenging for the San Francisco 49ers’ defensive linebacker, Dre Greenlaw. His biological parents had 12 children and limited financial resources to support them. As a result, Greenlaw was placed in foster care and eventually adopted by Brian and Nancy Early. This adoption proved to be a pivotal moment in his life and career. Greenlaw, who was once residing in a group home in Fayetteville, had little hope of pursuing a career in football. However, with the guidance and support of his adoptive father, he received the necessary training to enter the world of football.
This Sunday, Greenlaw will be playing in the Super Bowl against the Kansas City Chiefs. Prior to the game, he expressed his gratitude towards his foster parents in an interview with the media.
In his own words, Greenlaw stated:
Furthermore, Greenlaw acknowledged the instrumental role his parents played in his football journey. Without their dedication and perseverance, his childhood dream of becoming a football player would never have materialized. He expressed immense gratitude towards his parents.
HEARTWARMING: #49ers Dre Greenlaw shares his heartfelt appreciation for his adoptive parents Nanci and Brian Early, who welcomed him into their family after his time in foster care 🥹“I owe everything to them. Without them, I wouldn’t be here, and I wouldn’t have been able to pursue football either.” pic.twitter.com/2UvT8hCyLtNBC
Greenlaw’s foster father, Brian Early, currently serves as a football coach. Following his five seasons at Houston, Early was hired by the Missouri Tigers as the Defensive Line coach. Coaching has been a significant part of Early’s career after his professional football journey. His guidance and expertise have greatly contributed to Greenlaw’s development as a defender.
Throughout the season, Greenlaw showcased exceptional skill and determination as a member of the San Francisco 49ers. One notable performance was during the game against the Eagles, where he executed a powerful body slam on DeVonta Smith.
The Niners vs. Eagles game was fiercely contested, resulting in a 42-19 victory for the 49ers. However, it will be remembered for the intensity displayed by both teams. With 9:27 minutes remaining in the game, Greenlaw tackled Smith and subsequently executed a body slam, sparking a heated altercation between players and staff from both teams. As a result, Greenlaw was ejected from the game.