Sean Payton Drops Game-Changing Update on Broncos' Dre Greenlaw
In a stunning turn of events, Denver Broncos’ head coach Sean Payton has provided a glimmer of hope for fans, revealing an encouraging update on linebacker Dre Greenlaw's condition. The star player, who has been sidelined with a significant injury, could soon return to action sooner than expected.
Greenlaw, a force to be reckoned with on the defensive side of the ball, has been a key asset for the Broncos' defense. His return is critical as the team looks to build momentum and rise through the ranks of a tough AFC West. Payton's words have reignited excitement within the Broncos’ fan base, offering hope that Greenlaw’s recovery is progressing well and that he’ll be back on the field at full strength in no time.
With the defense already struggling to find its footing this season, Greenlaw’s leadership and playmaking ability could provide the jolt the Broncos need to finally turn their season around. Payton’s latest statement is a clear sign that the team is not only focused on short-term gains but also has its sights set on long-term success, especially with pivotal players like Greenlaw making a return.
As the Broncos face off against heavy hitters in the division, this update is more than just a good sign—it’s the spark that could fuel a dramatic turnaround for the team. Fans are now left wondering: Could Greenlaw’s return be the missing piece to elevate Denver’s defense and get them back in playoff contention?
Steelers’ Offensive Line Takes Another Hit Before Facing Seattle
The Pittsburgh Steelers performed well in a Week 1 win against the New York Jets. That does not mean that the team was perfect in any way, however. The main concerning takeaways from the contest were in regards to the trenches. Both the offensive and defensive lines proved to be unreliable, and it's a miracle that a 41-year-old Aaron Rodgers in particular was able to find success on offense while being under pressure so often. It will certainly be an emphasis during the organization's preparation for a Week 2 matchup with the Seattle Seahawks, which will take place at Acrisure Stadium.
It was no secret entering the 2025 campaign that Offensive Line Coach Pat Meyer may have a lot of pressure on himself. The hot seat is a phrase that comes to mind, as his group hasn't exceeded expectations for pretty much his entire tenure in the Steel City. He could be looking for a new job come the 2026 offseason if his unit doesn't turn it around quickly.
It's not going to get easier for the big men up front with the Seahawks coming to town. The officiating crews for the Week 2 games were announced on Tuesday, and Pittsburgh definitely got some unsettling news when Scott Novak and his crew were assigned to travel to the Steel City. This could provide a unique challenge to Meyer's group of guys leading the way on offense.
There isn't a lot of data to go off of because the 2025 regular season just started, but Novak's group had a very easy trend to follow back in 2024. The offensive line is a focal point and a main target for throwing yellow flags. A season ago, Novak's crew called 41 false starts and 40 offensive holding penalties. The last thing a struggling Steelers offensive line needs is a penalty-happy collective in stripes.
During Pittsburgh's 2024 contest against the New York Giants, Novak was on the call and Mason McCormick was flagged for holding once. Despite it being in the Steel City, there were also two false starts charged to the Steelers. Additionally, Broderick Jones was also called for a facemask infraction. This Week 8 Monday Night Football matchup was the only one that Novak's crew had in 2024 involving Pittsburgh.
It certainly helps that the Steelers will be playing in front of a favorable crowd that is likely to be completely jacked up for the team's first home game of the season. Those emotions will cause a rush of adrenaline for the players, but it's pivotal to stay grounded. It's clear that Novak's officiating crew is going to hone in on the offensive line, which is why getting handsy early on with defensive lineman could lead to some costly penalties.
To make matters worse, Novak and co. were on the call for the Arizona Cardinals and New Orleans Saints' Week 1 battle. There were seven offensive holding penalties called, as well as four false starts. This would insinuate that this particular referee crew is holding onto the same values that it did back in the 2024 season. Pittsburgh's offensive line will have to be on its best behavior.
Steelers Have Recently Broken Tradition About Not Firing Coaches Midseason
Back in 2023, Pittsburgh relieved then-Offensive Coordinator Matt Canada of his duties in the middle of the year. That is very rare for the organization, but it proved that not all things are the same in the Steel City. If Meyer's group continues to play down to the competition, repercussions could first come to some of the linemen, but Meyer could also find himself walking into his office with an empty box to put his things.
