The Denver Broncos have made Dre Greenlaw’s activation from injured reserve official, accompanied by a key roster move ahead of their game against the New York Giants. In a pre-gameday shuffle, the Broncos signed quarterback Sam Ehlinger, marking his return to the team.
**Sam Ehlinger Returns to Broncos**
Former Indianapolis Colts quarterback and 2021 sixth-round draft pick Sam Ehlinger is back with the Broncos, this time in a different role. Previously, Ehlinger was part of Denver’s 53-man roster, serving as the third-string quarterback behind starter Bo Nix and backup Jarrett Stidham. While on the active roster, he was inactive on game days, acting as an emergency option.
In a move to create space for Greenlaw’s return from IR, the Broncos released Ehlinger — a decision many saw as a precursor to Greenlaw’s activation, which proved to be accurate. Now, Ehlinger has rejoined the team’s practice squad.
According to Chris Tomasson of The Denver Gazette, “The Broncos don’t elevate QB Sam Ehlinger from the practice squad for Sunday’s game because there’s no need to from a money standpoint. Because he was on the 53-man roster after Tuesday, he already gets a full game check this week. Now he has up to 3 elevations on the practice squad to get more full game checks.”
**Ehlinger’s Career and Role**
At 27 years old, Ehlinger has thrown for 573 yards, with 3 touchdowns and 3 interceptions in his NFL career. Despite going 0–3 as a starter, he showed promise during the Broncos’ preseason. However, with Nix firmly established as the starting quarterback and Stidham as his experienced backup, Ehlinger’s role as the emergency third QB on game days has now shifted to a practice squad position. The Broncos will need to assign the emergency third QB job to someone else if circumstances require.
**Additional Roster Moves**
Alongside these quarterback moves, the Broncos finalized a few additional roster adjustments before their Sunday matchup. Defensive back A. J. Woods was released from the practice squad, as was wide receiver Thayer Thomas, who was let go with an injury settlement. Thomas had been placed on the practice squad/injured list just a few days prior on October 14.
Woods joined Denver in September during a busy period of roster changes but never appeared in any game during his brief tenure. Despite these moves, the Broncos maintain a strong cornerback group, led by reigning Defensive Player of the Year Pat Surtain II. This depth has made it difficult for 2025 first-round draft pick Jahdae Barron to see consistent playing time.
**Giants Look for Key Contributor**
The Broncos will face the New York Giants, who are dealing with a slew of injuries that prevented several players from traveling to Denver. However, there is some optimism for the Giants. Linebacker Abdul Carter, who has been battling a hamstring issue, made the trip and is considered a game-time decision. NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport noted, “His status will be determined based on how he responds.”
**Game Odds**
Despite some injury concerns on both sides, the Broncos enter the game as 7.5-point favorites, according to Vegas Insider.
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Stay tuned for more updates on the Broncos as they prepare for their clash with the Giants.
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