ENGLEWOOD, Colo. — The Denver Broncos are gearing up for a significant boost in their defense with linebacker Dre Greenlaw expected to make his debut against the New York Giants on Sunday, following his activation from injured reserve. This marks a key moment for the Broncos, as Greenlaw is one of the team’s major acquisitions of the offseason.
Greenlaw has been sidelined due to thigh injuries that prevented him from participating in preseason games and the first six weeks of the regular season. However, he was officially added to the 53-player roster on Saturday and is currently listed as questionable on the team’s injury report. After practicing on Wednesday for the first time since before the Week 2 matchup with the Indianapolis Colts, he participated fully in Friday’s sessions.
With the Broncos needing to make room on their roster, they waived third-string quarterback Sam Ehlinger, who subsequently joined the practice squad over the weekend.
The linebacker sustained a thigh injury during an offseason workout that kept him from different on-field activities during OTAs and minicamp. Although he started training camp on a positive note, he was beset by what head coach Sean Payton described as “a different injury” to the same thigh.
Having signed a three-year, $31.5 million contract in March, Greenlaw has drawn consistent praise from Payton for his potential impact due to his physicality and athleticism. Despite past injuries, Greenlaw has established himself as one of the NFL’s most effective off-ball linebackers, recording four seasons with at least 80 tackles and achieving 14 career passes defensed.
Joining a Broncos defense that excels in various key metrics—including leading the league in sacks and third-down and red zone defense—Greenlaw could enhance a unit that is ranked second in scoring defense. Defensive coordinator Vance Joseph indicated that Greenlaw might be managed carefully in his return, potentially limiting his snap count initially. “Adding a good player makes you a better defense,” Joseph noted, highlighting Greenlaw’s longstanding reputation as a top competitor in the league.
As the Broncos look forward to his return, fans eagerly anticipate the palpable impact Greenlaw could have on a defense already performing at a high level. This comeback also represents a narrative of resilience and hope, as the team continues to strive for success amidst challenges.