Broncos Adding Game-Changing Veteran Playmaker Before Facing Giants

The Denver Broncos are getting a boost for their Week 7 game against the New York Giants, with veteran linebacker Dre Greenlaw coming off injured reserve. After being sidelined with two different quad issues, Greenlaw will make his 2025 debut on Sunday.

The news comes after a series of encouraging signs, providing much-needed confirmation.

Greenlaw should help bolster one of the few consistent weaknesses on the Broncos’ No. 2-ranked scoring and overall defense: coverage.

Broncos Activating Dre Greenlaw From IR

GettyDre Greenlaw #57 of the San Francisco 49ers speaks to the media ahead of Super Bowl LVIII.

NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport first reported on X on October 18 that “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.

“A lift for the Denver defense.”

DNVR Sports’ Zac Stevens confirmed on X that “Greenlaw is officially being activated to the Broncos’ 53-man roster and OFF IR, per sources.

“Huge for Dre and the Broncos’ defense.”

The Broncos signed Greenlaw to a three-year, $31.5 million contract in free agency, and they held off on placing him on IR before setbacks forced their hand.

Broncos Coaches Get Real About Dre Greenlaw

GettyFormer San Francisco 49ers LB Dre Greenlaw #57 looks on against the Los Angeles Rams.

Even with Greenlaw set to return, the Broncos are being realistic in their expectations for him after such a long layoff. Broncos head coach

Sean Payton told media members on October 17 that Greenlaw had a “positive” week of work and that “he was able to go and move around.”

Greenlaw practiced in full

on Friday after back-to-back limited sessions to start the week.

Broncos defensive coordinator Vance Joseph said Greenlaw will most likely play a reserve role, but noted that “we’ll feel him. Everybody will” when the veteran is on the field.

“Obviously, when you have a good player, it helps you become a better defense. So, schematically, a lot of things don’t change. He’s been a great player for a long time, and that won’t change. So, I’m just looking forward to getting back on the field, helping us win,”

Joseph told reporters on October 16.

“I think if he returns this week, it’s got to be in a part-time role, maybe. We’ll see, and 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. So, we’ll see how Sunday plays out.”

Even if Greenlaw is limited, his teammates are well aware of the impact he can have on a game.

Dre Greenlaw Changes ‘Vibe’ on Defense

GettyDre Greenlaw #57 of the San Francisco 49ers celebrates after a stop against the

Detroit Lions in the NFC Championship Game.

Fellow Broncos LB Levelle Bailey noted Greenlaw was “flying around” and “looked good” in practice this week. His return also provided an emotional boost.

“He brought the energy back in the room,” Bailey said, per The Denver Gazette’s Chris Tomasson on October 18. “You can just tell the vibe is just different on the defense when he’s out flying around & the..leadership he brings to the table”

Greenlaw has been a mentor for Bailey, an undrafted free agent in 2024.

Bailey has one appearance in 2025. Justin Strnad has joined Alex Singleton in the starting lineup in Greenlaw’s absence, with rookie UDAF

Karene Reid playing behind them.

“He always talks to me about getting my pad level down..and things like that,” Bailey said, per Tomasson. “In the meeting room, he pulls me aside. We usually watch extra film after meetings and he shows me little pointers.”

Sunday is Greenlaw’s first opportunity to back up the hype around his joining the Broncos.

J.J. Watt’s Talk About Cooper DeJean Sends the NFL Crazy! 🔥 Houston Texans legend J.J. Watt didn’t hold back when talking about C.J. Stroud, and his comments have attracted attention across the league. Fans immediately flooded social media, calling it "one superstar recognizing another superstar." Analysts praised Watt for his honesty and giving him the credit he deserved — a rarity in today's cutthroat NFL culture.

The NFL community is on fire after Houston Texans legend J.J. Watt spoke passionately about the team’s young franchise quarterback, C.J. Stroud, in an interview that fans are calling

“one superstar recognizing another.”

Known for his intensity, honesty, and legacy as one of the most dominant defensive players in NFL history, Watt didn’t hold back when discussing Stroud’s rapid rise and leadership both on and off the field. His powerful words instantly set the football world ablaze.

“C.J. Stroud isn’t just good — he’s special,” Watt said. “He’s the kind of player you build an entire franchise around. He’s got talent, heart, and humility — and that’s rare.”

Those 27 words were enough to send social media into a meltdown, with fans across the country praising Watt for giving the young quarterback the recognition he deserves.

“One Superstar Recognizing Another”

Within minutes of Watt’s comments being posted, hashtags like #JJWattOnStroud, #TexansPride, and #NFLRespect began trending across X (formerly Twitter) and Instagram. Fans called the moment “pure class” and “the ultimate passing of the torch” between two of Houston’s most beloved figures.

“You can feel the respect — Watt knows greatness when he sees it,” wrote one fan.
“One legend, one future legend. This is what the Texans are built on,” added another.

Even non-Texans fans joined in, acknowledging how rare it is to see a retired superstar publicly praising a current player with such genuine admiration.

Analysts Applaud Watt’s Words

NFL analysts across the board have praised J.J. Watt’s comments, calling them

“a reflection of Houston’s new era.”

ESPN’s Adam Schefter wrote:

“When J.J. Watt speaks, the NFL listens. His praise for C.J. Stroud isn’t just about performance — it’s about character and leadership.”

Meanwhile, NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport called Watt’s statement “symbolic of how far the Texans have come,” noting that Watt and Stroud embody the same core values of “grit, humility, and excellence.”

Even former Texans coach Bill O’Brien weighed in, saying:

“J.J. was the heart of Houston. To see him acknowledge C.J. like that — it shows how this city continues to grow through its players.”

C.J. Stroud: The Future of Houston

Since being drafted by the Texans, C.J. Stroud has not only revitalized the franchise but also reignited a sense of pride in the city of Houston. His poise, precision, and leadership have already earned him comparisons to elite quarterbacks like Patrick Mahomes and Joe Burrow — but it’s his composure under pressure that truly stands out.

Watt, who knows what it takes to carry a franchise’s expectations, said he sees that same fire in Stroud.

“When I watch C.J., I see a guy who refuses to back down,” Watt said. “He’s not chasing fame — he’s chasing greatness. That’s what separates the good from the legendary.”

Those remarks hit home for Texans fans who have waited years to see their team return to prominence.

Fans React: “Watt Said What We All Feel”

Texans fans immediately took to social media to celebrate Watt’s comments, calling it “a full-circle moment.” Many said it felt like a symbolic blessing from one franchise hero to another.

“J.J. carried this city through its toughest years,” wrote one fan. “If he believes in Stroud, then Houston believes too.”
Another fan added: “This is the leadership energy we’ve been missing — two men cut from the same cloth.”

The moment resonated far beyond Houston, with fans across the league acknowledging that Watt’s endorsement carries enormous weight.

A Legacy of Leadership and Character

J.J. Watt’s words carry power because they come from experience. A three-time NFL Defensive Player of the Year, humanitarian icon, and beloved leader, Watt’s opinion still holds major influence in the league.

By praising Stroud, Watt wasn’t just acknowledging athletic talent — he was celebrating the next generation of leadership in Houston.

“I see how C.J. handles the pressure, how he treats people, how he talks about his teammates,” Watt continued. “That’s what makes a real leader. Houston’s in great hands.”

Those remarks highlight what many insiders have already noted: the Texans’ locker room culture is changing — and Stroud is at the center of it.

A New Era for the Houston Texans

Under head coach DeMeco Ryans, Houston has been rebuilding from the inside out — prioritizing discipline, accountability, and unity. Watt’s public show of support for Stroud reinforces the belief that the Texans have finally found their identity again.

Sports commentator Shannon Sharpe summed it up perfectly on Undisputed:

“J.J. Watt is the soul of Houston football. If he’s backing C.J. Stroud, that’s your proof the future is here.”

“Iron Sharpens Iron”

C.J. Stroud, when told about Watt’s comments after practice, smiled humbly and gave a simple but powerful response:

“It means a lot coming from J.J. He’s someone I’ve looked up to for years. I’m just trying to make him — and Houston — proud.”

It’s moments like this that remind fans why football is more than just a game — it’s about legacy, leadership, and respect passed from one generation to the next.

As one fan put it best:

“J.J. Watt built the foundation. C.J. Stroud is building the future. And Houston? Houston is home again.”

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