The Denver Broncos have made a significant roster change by releasing linebacker Dre Greenlaw, whom they signed last offseason. This move came shortly after the team secured Alex Singleton with a new two-year contract, reflecting general manager George Paton’s decision to move past Greenlaw after a challenging and injury-filled debut season. Despite hopes that Greenlaw might contribute to Denver’s defense, recurring health issues limited his playing time considerably.
Factors Behind Greenlaw’s Release and Impact on Linebacker Depth
Greenlaw’s departure was expected after the Broncos retained linebackers Justin Strnad and Alex Singleton. Throughout last season, Greenlaw struggled to remain healthy and admitted finding it difficult to adjust to head coach Sean Payton’s demanding training camp and game strategy. While his occasional on-field contributions showed promise, it ultimately was not enough to justify keeping him on the Broncos’ roster.
Paton has shown adeptness in managing the team, even when handling complex salary cap situations like the dead money from Russell Wilson’s contract. However, releasing Greenlaw raises questions given the Broncos’ already thin linebacker lineup. Relying on Singleton, who has sometimes been a defensive weak spot, may lead to vulnerabilities. The move frees up approximately $6 million in salary cap space, but some argue the team might have benefited more from retaining Greenlaw to see if he could fulfill his potential.
Slow Activity on First Day of Free Agency for the Broncos
This year’s free agency began quietly for Denver, a sharp contrast to last year when the team made several early signings. Aside from re-signing tailback JK Dobbins to a two-year contract, the Broncos have yet to bring in any outside free agents. The exact amount of salary cap space remaining is unclear, but the organization is anticipated to be more active on the second day of free agency. To strengthen their chances of making a Super Bowl run next season, adding new talent remains essential.
Among the available options, Denver has been connected to former Green Bay Packers wide receiver Romeo Doubs, who posted 55 catches for 724 yards and six touchdowns in his last season. Acquiring Doubs could provide Denver with a reliable receiving option, filling a gap highlighted by injuries to Troy Franklin and Pat Bryant during the playoffs. While landing a star receiver via trade seems unlikely, signing Doubs would be a useful addition as a complementary target for quarterback Bo Nix.
The Broncos were also linked to wideout Kendrick Bourne this offseason, but Bourne chose a two-year deal with the Arizona Cardinals. It appears Denver is willing to avoid bidding wars yet still aims to secure assets like Doubs, who could play a critical role supporting Nix, especially as the young quarterback remains on a rookie contract.
Looking Ahead to Crucial Moves on Day Two of Free Agency
Typically, the second day of free agency offers opportunities for teams to find valuable players who can strengthen key positions. Since the Broncos have not yet made any big-name signings, efficient use of available resources will be vital. The team’s primary needs include adding depth at wide receiver and linebacker, while other areas can potentially be addressed in the upcoming NFL Draft in April.
With numerous prospects still available as day two approaches, Denver must actively pursue reinforcements. Failure to do so will place significant pressure on George Paton and the front office to identify draft picks capable of making substantial contributions immediately—a challenging feat. After a difficult draft last year, Paton faces a critical moment to improve the team’s outlook in the coming weeks.
