Denver opens 2025 with a charged Mile High debut against the Titans. Bo Nix leads a revamped attack featuring R.J. Harvey and J.K. Dobbins in a wide zone run game, while Evan Engram and Troy Franklin provide big-play potential. The defense, led by Pat Surtain II, aims to press Cam Ward and force sacks and turnovers while depth players must fill for the injured Dre Greenlaw and Malcolm Roach. Week 1 feel-out becomes a test of explosiveness, penalties, and situational football.

Dreeze Greenlaw and Nate Adkins were the Broncos’ two DNPs on the 2025 injury report, with Greenlaw nursing a quad issue and Adkins sidelined by an ankle. Denver is taking a thoughtful, long-horizon approach to Greenlaw, planning to be smart and conservative early in the season. If Greenlaw cannot go, Justin Strnad would slide in opposite Alex Singleton, a shift that could influence Titans’ Week 1 game plan.

Denver’s other listed full participants—Nik Bonitto and Marvin Mims—signal the defensive depth and weapons they’ll lean on early. Payton’s stance on injuries emphasizes mandatory reporting over speculation, a stance that could keep fantasy managers in the dark until later in the week while the Broncos monitor practice reps and roster moves for Sunday.

Denver's 2025 inside linebacker plan centers on Alex Singleton, back from ACL and a thumb issue, wearing the green dot and guiding a defense that also leans on Dre Greenlaw to stay healthy. Justin Strnad and Cody Barton add sturdy depth, while the Broncos hold three ILBs on the practice squad, signaling uncertainty but upside if health cooperates.

Payton highlighted Singleton's leadership, hinting he’ll be the signal-caller, while Greenlaw could open on a pitch count. If both stay healthy, Denver could field a top-tier unit, with Singleton's contract-year urgency boosting IDP value for opportunistic managers.

The Denver Broncos received some positive news regarding linebacker Drew Sanders, who was initially expected to face a lengthy recovery from a foot injury. Head coach Sean Payton clarified that Sanders has a ligament injury rather than a tendon issue, which is notably less severe. While he will still be sidelined for a period exceeding four to six weeks, the prognosis is more optimistic than first anticipated.

Sanders is currently weighing his options regarding surgery, which may not be necessary depending on the specific details of his ligament injury. In his absence, Justin Strnad is set to step up as the primary backup alongside starters Dre Greenlaw and Alex Singleton. The Broncos also have additional depth with second-year player Levelle Bailey and a group of undrafted free agents.

As the 2025 NFL season approaches, the Denver Broncos' inside linebacker position showcases a blend of returning talent and promising newcomers. Alex Singleton, a reliable starter, joins Dre Greenlaw, who was signed from the San Francisco 49ers, adding significant depth. The health of Greenlaw remains a concern as he aims to recover from injuries that limited him previously. Meanwhile, Drew Sanders' transition from outside to inside linebacker adds intrigue, as his athleticism could provide a dynamic edge.

Younger players like Levelle Bailey, JB Brown, Karene Reid, and Jordan Turner are also making strides, potentially challenging for roster spots. With four likely to make the final 53-man roster, the Broncos face tough decisions as they evaluate contributions from both veterans and rookies during training camp.