Broncos Linebacker Dre Greenlaw Set for Return Against Giants

ENGLEWOOD, Colo. (AP) — Linebacker Dre Greenlaw, one of the Denver Broncos‘ key offseason signings, is set to make his debut against the New York Giants on Sunday after being activated from injured reserve. Greenlaw has been sidelined since summer due to a quadriceps injury.

Greenlaw joined the Broncos on a three-year, $31.5 million contract in March. Denver head coach Sean Payton praised Greenlaw’s physicality and athleticism, highlighting his potential impact on the team’s defense, which currently leads the NFL in several key categories.

“He looked good out there,” cornerback Patrick Surtain II said after watching Greenlaw practice on Wednesday. “It seems like he’s very sharp on everything, the game plan, so I’m very excited for him.”

Defensive coordinator Vance Joseph noted that Greenlaw might initially see limited playing time as he returns. “Adding a good player makes you a better defense,” Joseph said. “He’s been a great player for a long time.”

Greenlaw’s return is crucial for the Broncos, who boast the league’s best red zone (28.6%) and third-down defense (27.1%). The team allows just 254.2 yards per game, narrowly trailing the Atlanta Falcons.

The Broncos capitalized on their defense’s strengths last week, allowing the Jets to record a mere minus-10 yards passing in a gritty 13-11 victory in London. Now, they’re eager to face the Giants and their rookie quarterback, Jaxson Dart, this Sunday.