The Denver Broncos are getting a boost for their Week 7 game against the New York Giants, with veteran linebacker Dre Greenlaw coming off injured reserve. After being sidelined with two different quad issues, Greenlaw will make his 2025 debut on Sunday.
The news comes after a series of encouraging signs, providing much-needed confirmation.
Greenlaw should help bolster one of the few consistent weaknesses on the Broncos’ No. 2-ranked scoring and overall defense: coverage.
Broncos Activating Dre Greenlaw From IR
GettyDre Greenlaw #57 of the San Francisco 49ers speaks to the media ahead of Super Bowl LVIII.
NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport first reported on X on October 18 that “the #Broncos are expected to activate standout LB Dre Greenlaw from IR, where he’s been since Week 3 because of a quad injury, sources say.
“A lift for the Denver defense.”
DNVR Sports’ Zac Stevens confirmed on X that “Greenlaw is officially being activated to the Broncos’ 53-man roster and OFF IR, per sources.
“Huge for Dre and the Broncos’ defense.”
The Broncos signed Greenlaw to a three-year, $31.5 million contract in free agency, and they held off on placing him on IR before setbacks forced their hand.
Broncos Coaches Get Real About Dre Greenlaw
GettyFormer San Francisco 49ers LB Dre Greenlaw #57 looks on against the Los Angeles Rams.
Even with Greenlaw set to return, the Broncos are being realistic in their expectations for him after such a long layoff. Broncos head coach Sean Payton told media members on October 17 that Greenlaw had a “positive” week of work and that “he was able to go and move around.”
Greenlaw practiced in full on Friday after back-to-back limited sessions to start the week.
Broncos defensive coordinator Vance Joseph said Greenlaw will most likely play a reserve role, but noted that “we’ll feel him. Everybody will” when the veteran is on the field.
“Obviously, when you have a good player, it helps you become a better defense. So, schematically, a lot of things don’t change. He’s been a great player for a long time, and that won’t change. So, I’m just looking forward to getting back on the field, helping us win,” Joseph told reporters on October 16.
“I think if he returns this week, it’s got to be in a part-time role, maybe. We’ll see, and we’re not sure that’s going to happen this weekend or next. But he’s in good spirits. He’s worked hard, he’s in the right mindset. So, we’ll see how Sunday plays out.”
Even if Greenlaw is limited, his teammates are well aware of the impact he can have on a game.
Dre Greenlaw Changes ‘Vibe’ on Defense
GettyDre Greenlaw #57 of the San Francisco 49ers celebrates after a stop against the Detroit Lions in the NFC Championship Game.
Fellow Broncos LB Levelle Bailey noted Greenlaw was “flying around” and “looked good” in practice this week. His return also provided an emotional boost.
“He brought the energy back in the room,” Bailey said, per The Denver Gazette’s Chris Tomasson on October 18. “You can just tell the vibe is just different on the defense when he’s out flying around & the..leadership he brings to the table”
Greenlaw has been a mentor for Bailey, an undrafted free agent in 2024.
Bailey has one appearance in 2025. Justin Strnad has joined Alex Singleton in the starting lineup in Greenlaw’s absence, with rookie UDAF Karene Reid playing behind them.
“He always talks to me about getting my pad level down..and things like that,” Bailey said, per Tomasson. “In the meeting room, he pulls me aside. We usually watch extra film after meetings and he shows me little pointers.”
Sunday is Greenlaw’s first opportunity to back up the hype around his joining the Broncos.
Like Heavy Sports’s content? Be sure to follow us.
This article was originally published on Heavy Sports
The post Broncos Adding Game-Changing Veteran Playmaker Before Facing Giants appeared first on Heavy Sports.