Dre Greenlaw is set to make his long-awaited debut with the Denver Broncos, returning from injured reserve. The linebacker returned to the practice field for the first time on Wednesday. He’s returned after a pair of thigh injuries to miss the Week 2 date with the Indianapolis Colts. Greenlaw has missed the entire preseason, as well as the first six games of the regular season. He returned to practice on Friday as a full participant, indicating that he’s ready to come back to action.
On Saturday, the Broncos formally signed Greenlaw to their 53-man roster. He had knee surgery but is now officially questionable on the team’s injury report per ESPN.com. Greenlaw, who had been sidelined with a groin injury, was to make his 2022 debut Sunday. His next opponent would be the New York Giants, an important milestone on his long recovery road.
Defensive coordinator Vance Joseph said that Greenlaw will likely start on a “pitch count” when he first comes back. He noted that, no matter what, bringing in a player the ilk of Greenlaw, you can’t help but improve your football team.
“Obviously when you (add) a good player, it makes you a better defense,” – Vance Joseph
One of the problems with writing about this Broncos’ defense has been their incendiary play this season! They rank first in the league in sacks, third-down defense, red zone defense, and defensive expected points added (EPA). Greenlaw’s addition will reinforce an already fierce unit that ranks second in the league for scoring defense.
Greenlaw has a track record for success with four consecutive seasons of 80-plus tackles and 14 career passes defensed. His reputation as one of the league’s most impactful off-ball linebackers precedes him, despite his injury setbacks over the years. Every day, Coach Sean Payton is bragging on Greenlaw’s physicality and athleticism. These qualities will no doubt enhance the Broncos’ defensive game.
Greenlaw signed a three-year contract worth $31.5 million in March, reflecting the team’s confidence in his ability to make an impact. He first returned at the beginning of training camp but was shut down because of a separate thigh injury. After a long and frustrating recovery process, he finds himself healthy enough to finally step on the field and show everyone what he’s capable of.
As the Broncos prepare for their matchup against the Giants, the team looks forward to integrating Greenlaw into their schemes and maximizing his contributions on defense.
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