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Dre Greenlaw Broncos: The Denver Broncos have parted ways with linebacker Dre Greenlaw following a series of roster moves aimed at reshaping the team’s defense.
The decision came shortly after the organization secured new deals for linebackers Alex Singleton and Justin Strnad. The release is projected to create more than $8 million in salary cap savings.
League sources indicate the move was primarily driven by financial considerations as the team continues to manage its payroll ahead of the new season.
Head coach Sean Payton addressed the decision during the NFL’s annual meeting, describing it as a difficult outcome for both the player and the organization.
He highlighted Greenlaw’s intensity and commitment, noting that such traits are highly valued within the locker room.
Payton said he has coached many players with similar passion throughout his career and emphasized that Greenlaw fits that mold.
He expressed regret that the partnership did not develop as hoped, adding that coaches often feel a degree of accountability when situations like this do not succeed.
The move reflects the Broncos’ broader strategy of balancing competitive depth with financial discipline as they prepare for the upcoming NFL campaign.
The Denver Broncos are exploring changes to their defensive structure after parting ways with linebacker Dre Greenlaw.
One of those adjustments could involve a new role for Jonah Elliss in the upcoming 2026 season.
Head coach Sean Payton confirmed that Elliss, who has spent most of his early career on the outside, may receive playing time at inside linebacker.
The move is part of the team’s effort to strengthen depth and create more flexibility within the defensive unit.
Payton said the organization expected a transition period after bringing back linebackers Alex Singleton and Justin Strnad.
He noted that shifting Elliss inside has been discussed internally as a way to maximize available personnel, particularly given the team’s depth at edge rusher.
The coaching staff plans to continue evaluating the linebacker group as the offseason progresses.
Payton indicated that the upcoming NFL Draft could further influence how the roster takes shape and how roles are ultimately defined.
He also acknowledged that roster management often involves difficult decisions, even when retaining familiar players.
Payton described the process as a strategic exercise, where teams reassess free agents, adjust the depth chart, and then prioritize key roster needs before filling remaining gaps.
The Broncos are expected to make additional adjustments as they continue building toward the new season.
The Denver Broncos made their linebacker priorities clear during the offseason by committing to Alex Singleton and Justin Strnad.
Team officials considered both players essential to the defense, which ultimately influenced the decision to move on from Dre Greenlaw.
With roster space and financial limits in mind, the Broncos were unable to keep all three linebackers.
The organization chose to retain the two players who were already heavily involved in the defense during the 2025 season. Greenlaw, however, did not stay on the market for long.
He quickly found a new opportunity by rejoining the San Francisco 49ers, the franchise where he previously built his reputation as a productive defensive player.
Denver is now expected to continue with Singleton and Strnad as the core of the linebacker unit.
Both players handled significant starting responsibilities last season and are expected to maintain major roles going forward.
The decision reflects the Broncos’ focus on continuity and roster balance as they prepare for the next NFL season.
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