The Denver Broncos head into Sunday’s game with the New York Giants riding a stout defense and the hope that a key veteran can give them an extra boost. Denver will face a Giants offense that tests linebackers in both the run game and underneath coverage, a timely stage for the Broncos to add depth.
Denver made a roster move Saturday that cleared the way for linebacker Dre Greenlaw to return from injured reserve and be available for the game. The Broncos also shuffled quarterbacks, releasing Sam Ehlinger from the 53-man roster and signing him to the practice squad; that created the roster spot Greenlaw needed.
Greenlaw, the offseason free-agent signing, has not played a snap this year after a series of thigh/quadriceps setbacks. He worked his way back through limited practices this week, progressing to full participation Friday, and is listed as questionable for Sunday.
Dre Greenlaw returns from injury and 2025 season debut
Greenlaw’s thigh issues began after he strained the muscle during an April workout and then worsened it in training camp on July 31 while covering J.K. Dobbins. He practiced intermittently, limited on Sept. 12, then placed on injured reserve on Sept. 20 to give him time to recover.
“We’ll see. 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,” defensive coordinator Vance Joseph said.
Payton has praised Greenlaw’s physicality since signing him to a three-year deal in March, noting the veteran’s ability to make the defense better. If he plays, expect a part-time role as Denver eases him back into game action.
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.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) October 18, 2025
A lift for the Denver defense. pic.twitter.com/7JMvxCBSAJ
Beyond the headline addition, Denver’s defense enters the game with strong metrics leading the league in sacks, third-down defense, red-zone defense and defensive EPA. At the same time ranking second in scoring defense. Still, the Broncos want to erase a couple of shaky September performances and tighten consistency. The Giants will try to exploit any early rotation gaps, so Denver’s ability to mix starters and recent activations will be pivotal.
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