The Denver Broncos have finally found their middle linebacker—and not just any player, but one of the NFL’s best in Dre Greenlaw, who they signed this week in free agency. It’s been a long time since Denver had a linebacker of this caliber. No disrespect to Todd Davis, but the Broncos haven’t had a dominant presence at middle linebacker since Al Wilson. That’s how long the wait has been.
Of course, Greenlaw’s injury history is the biggest question mark with this move. But Sean Payton, George Paton, and Greg Penner wouldn’t have signed off on this deal if they weren’t confident in his health. It also helps that Denver now boasts one of the league’s top health and training programs. Since Payton took over and brought in Beau Lowery as vice president of player health and performance, the Broncos have gone from one of the NFL’s most injury-prone teams to arguably one of the healthiest (knock on wood).
When healthy, there’s no question about Greenlaw’s ability. He brings a level of toughness and playmaking that Denver’s defense has been lacking for years.
Greenlaw spent the first six seasons of his career with the San Francisco 49ers, starting 56 games. During that time, he racked up 455 total tackles, 18 tackles for loss, nine QB hits, three interceptions, 14 pass breakups, two forced fumbles, two recoveries, and two defensive touchdowns.
According to Pro Football Focus, Greenlaw has earned an impressive 82.6 coverage grade since 2022—ranking fourth among linebackers with at least 1,000 coverage snaps. PFF also rated him as the best free-agent linebacker on the market this offseason.
But beyond his on-field production, Greenlaw brings invaluable playoff experience and leadership. He’s played in 12 postseason games, including four NFC Championship Games and two Super Bowls. In Super Bowl LVIII, San Francisco held the Chiefs scoreless for the first 20 minutes—until Greenlaw exited with an injury in the second quarter.
For a Broncos team that just ended an eight-year playoff drought, that kind of experience is crucial. And his familiarity with Patrick Mahomes and the Chiefs offense doesn’t hurt either.
Yes, Greenlaw will need to stay healthy. But if he can, he’ll immediately elevate an already strong defense and finally fill a position Denver has struggled with for what feels like forever.
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