The NFL world will not soon forget about Dre Greenlaw. After an encouraging week ramping back up to full participation in practice, the Denver Broncos are set to activate inside linebacker Dre Greenlaw off injured reserve for Sunday’s matchup against the New York Giants, multiple sources confirmed to The Denver Post.
The writing was on the wall when Greenlaw was listed as questionable on Friday’s injury report, and Denver waived quarterback Sam Ehlinger to create a roster spot. Now, the stage is set for Greenlaw to make his debut in a Broncos jersey.
Denver signed Greenlaw to a three-year deal during free agency, hoping he would be a difference-maker in toughness and coverage in the middle of the defense. However, setbacks during his rehab from a quad tear suffered in April pushed his timeline back considerably, leading Denver to place him on injured reserve in Week 3.
Despite the challenges, Greenlaw “feels like his normal self,” as his father Brian Early previously told The Denver Post. Defensive coordinator Vance Joseph mentioned this week that Greenlaw’s return would “maybe” be in a part-time role, clarifying that fill-in linebacker Justin Strnad will still receive a package of snaps moving forward.
Joseph emphasized that Greenlaw’s return is more of an upgrade rather than a system-changing force. “It won’t change much schematically,” Joseph said. “I think, obviously, when you have a good player, it helps you become a better defense. So, schematically, a lot of things won’t change. He’s been a great player for a long time, and that won’t change.”
Greenlaw developed into one of the best linebackers in the league during his time with the San Francisco 49ers in 2022 and 2023. However, he missed all but two games in 2024 while rehabbing from an Achilles tear.
“He feels like there’s a part of him missing when he’s not able to…”
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https://www.denverpost.com/2025/10/18/dre-greenlaw-broncos-giants-activated/