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.

Justin Strnad, a sixth-year linebacker for the Denver Broncos, is coming off a career year in 2024. After a challenging start to his NFL career, including an injury-plagued rookie season, Strnad stepped up significantly when starting linebacker Alex Singleton suffered an ACL tear early in the season. In his breakout year, Strnad recorded 73 total tackles, three pass deflections, and three sacks, showcasing his versatility and resilience. His performance elevated him from primarily a special teams player to a key contributor on defense.

With the offseason moves, including acquiring Dre Greenlaw from the San Francisco 49ers, Strnad is expected to compete for a backup role behind Singleton, but his recent experience gives him an edge for a rotational position. His ability to play a vital role in the kicking game will also be crucial for the Broncos as they prepare for the upcoming season.

The Denver Broncos have made a notable return to relevance, highlighted by three players being featured in Pete Prisco's Top 100 NFL players list for the upcoming 2025 season. Leading the pack is Pat Surtain II, who ranked 9th overall after being crowned the Defensive Player of the Year. His unparalleled skills as a cover corner significantly enhance the Broncos' defensive capabilities. Following Surtain, wide receiver Courtland Sutton and linebacker Josey Jewell also made the list, contributing to the team's resurgence since their last playoff appearance in 2015.

Surtain's ability to neutralize opposing receivers has drawn praise, showcasing his impact on the field. Sutton, a key target in the passing game, and Jewell, anchoring the linebacker corps, are essential to the team's success as they aim to build on their playoff experience. The Broncos, with these talented players at the forefront, are poised to make a significant impact in the upcoming season.

The Denver Broncos have secured significant salary cap relief by re-signing linebacker Justin Strnad to a one-year deal valued at $2.7 million. The contract includes a fully guaranteed salary of $2.62 million and a signing bonus of $167,500. Notably, Strnad qualifies for a veteran salary benefit due to his four credited seasons with the team, which reduces his salary cap hit to approximately $1.37 million, as highlighted by cap expert Zach Aulakh. This strategic move is another example of the Broncos' effective management of their salary cap.