Dre Greenlaw’s Role Still Limited as Broncos Manage Star Linebacker’s Return
When the Denver Broncos signed Dre Greenlaw this past offseason, it was a move that signaled intent. They were bringing in a proven, high-energy linebacker with playoff experience and a reputation for physicality-someone who could help anchor the middle of a defense looking to take the next step under Sean Payton.
But as has often been the case with Greenlaw throughout his career, health has been the hurdle.
After missing the early part of the season with a quad injury, Greenlaw has now suited up for six games. And while he hasn’t exploded onto the stat sheet, his impact-particularly in the run game-has been felt.
He’s been solid, disruptive in the box, and even came up with an interception along the way. The instincts are there.
So is the toughness.
But here’s the catch: Greenlaw still isn’t playing a full slate of snaps.
Broncos defensive coordinator Vance Joseph confirmed this week that Greenlaw remains on a snap count, even as the team enters a critical stretch of the season. That’s not exactly what you expect to hear about a marquee free-agent addition in December, especially one who’s been back on the field for over a month.
Let’s take a look at the numbers. Here’s how Greenlaw’s snap counts have looked over his six appearances:
- 21 snaps (27.3%)
- 27 snaps (37%)
- 37 snaps (61.7%)
- 43 snaps (61.4%)
- 65 snaps (72.2%)
- 30 snaps (60%)
There’s an upward trend in the middle, but it’s clear the Broncos are still managing his workload carefully. Even in recent weeks, when he’s consistently played over 60% of the defensive snaps, the team hasn’t fully unleashed him. In Week 14 against the Raiders, for example, his snap count dipped again-likely due to the game getting out of hand early.
This is a calculated approach by Denver. They knew the injury history when they brought Greenlaw in.
And to their credit, the Broncos have been one of the healthier teams in the league since Sean Payton took over. That’s not by accident.
The organization has taken a conservative, long-game approach when it comes to player health, and Greenlaw’s usage is a clear example of that philosophy.
Still, with four games left and the playoff picture tightening, you have to wonder when-or if-Denver will finally take the training wheels off.
Greenlaw is the kind of linebacker who thrives in high-stakes football. He brings a physical edge that can elevate a defense, especially late in the year when games get more rugged and every possession matters. And with a tough four-game stretch looming, the Broncos could use every bit of his presence in the middle of the field.
At 28 years old, Greenlaw is in his prime. He’s battled through injuries before and proven he can play at a high level when healthy.
But the Broncos are clearly not ready to go all-in with his workload just yet. Whether that changes in the coming weeks could have a major impact on how this defense holds up down the stretch.
For now, Greenlaw remains a key piece of the puzzle-but one the Broncos are keeping in the box, at least a little longer.