The Denver Broncos' offseason strategy focused on retaining key players, yet the departures of defensive lineman John Franklin-Myers and linebacker Dre Greenlaw marked significant changes. Franklin-Myers, having secured a substantial contract with the Tennessee Titans, made his presence felt in his inaugural game, contributing three tackles. Meanwhile, Greenlaw rejoined the San Francisco 49ers, seamlessly integrating back into their defensive lineup and demonstrating his continued prowess with six tackles. Their performances with their new teams highlight the impact of their absence on the Broncos, raising questions about the team's defensive strength moving forward.
Former Broncos Shine in New Colors: Franklin-Myers and Greenlaw's Impactful Debuts
On a Sunday in September 2026, two former key players for the Denver Broncos, John Franklin-Myers and Dre Greenlaw, showcased their talents in new environments. John Franklin-Myers, a defensive end who departed the Broncos for a three-year, $63 million deal with the Tennessee Titans, made his debut against the New York Jets. He was a prominent figure on the Titans' defensive line, participating in 40 snaps (60% of defensive plays), placing him third among his fellow linemen, behind Jeffery Simmons (50 snaps) and Jermaine Johnson (41 snaps). Franklin-Myers concluded the game with three tackles, although he did not record a sack. His considerable playing time indicates the Titans' clear intention to utilize him as a vital component of their defense throughout the season.
Simultaneously, linebacker Dre Greenlaw, released by the Broncos this offseason due to persistent injury concerns, rejoined his former team, the San Francisco 49ers. Greenlaw quickly found his stride, displaying no signs of rust in his performance against the Los Angeles Rams. He recorded an impressive six tackles, demonstrating his continued ability to be a dominant force on the field. Alongside Fred Warner, Greenlaw appears poised to form one of the most formidable inside linebacker duos in professional football. The swift re-establishment of Greenlaw's impact suggests that his departure might prove to be an even more substantial loss for the Broncos in 2026 than that of Franklin-Myers.
The early showings of both Franklin-Myers and Greenlaw with their new franchises offer a compelling narrative for football enthusiasts. It underscores the challenges teams face in retaining talent within salary cap constraints and highlights the immediate impact experienced players can have when transitioning to new systems. For fans of the Denver Broncos, these initial performances will undoubtedly spark discussions about the strategic decisions made during the offseason and the potential long-term repercussions for the team's defensive capabilities. It also serves as a testament to the resilience and adaptability of professional athletes, as they continue to perform at a high level despite changes in team allegiances.
