Eight Broncos did not dress for the preseason opener, a 30-9 win at San Francisco. The absences included Michael Burton, Reese Taylor, Drew Sanders, Nate Adkins, Alex Singleton, A.T. Perry and Matt Henningsen, with Henningsen later revealed to have torn his Achilles in joint practice and will miss the 2025 season. Dre Greenlaw sat out for San Francisco with a quad, while Greenlaw’s teammates returned to practice next week and Singleton is expected to be ready for Week 1 after a healing thumb. Denver’s next test arrives at home vs Arizona on Aug. 16.

Fantasy-minded readers should note that Henningsen’s injury opens a clearer path for Broncos’ interior defenders, while Burton’s absence could push depth players into fuller blocking and goal-line duty. Perry’s and Adkins’ statuses suggest the Broncos may lean on youth and versatility at pass-catching and will watch minutes behind the starter-heavy trio. San Francisco’s defense may be without Greenlaw early, potentially lifting opportunities for Denver’s ancillary backs and tight ends in subsequent joint practices and exhibitions.

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.

Foyesade Oluokun is poised for a comeback to LB1 status in 2025 following a mismanaged year. After three consecutive IDP seasons at LB1, his performance dipped, but he now has the opportunity to return stronger. Alex Singleton, known for his tackle efficiency, aims to reclaim his position after recovering from an ACL injury, which has kept him off the field.

Injury setbacks have plagued fantasy managers, but key players are expected to bounce back this year. Notably, Bradley Chubb, who missed the entire 2024 season due to an ACL tear, was on track for a career year before the injury. He excelled in expected sacks and overall performance, indicating a promising return in 2025.

Alex Singleton, the seventh-year linebacker for the Denver Broncos, is determined to make a strong comeback after suffering a torn ACL. Originally entering the NFL as an undrafted free agent in 2015, Singleton's football journey has taken him from the Seattle Seahawks to the CFL's Calgary Stampeders, where he excelled and earned All-Star honors. His impressive stats in Canada included 311 tackles and a Grey Cup victory, proving his potential.

Following his time in the CFL, Singleton joined the Philadelphia Eagles in 2019, where he quickly became a key defensive player. Now, as he returns to the Broncos, he aims to solidify his role and contribute significantly to the team's defense this season.