Summary

Dre Greenlaw was drafted in the 2019 NFL Draft, Round 5, (pick 148) out of University of Arkansas. Greenlaw is a dynamic, instinctive linebacker who blends solid coverage ability with excellent pursuit speed and physical tackling. He brings the type of versatility coveted in today’s evolving defenses: able to drop into space, chase horizontally, and contribute in pass coverage while still being involved in run defense and tackling. His physicality and motor make him a difference‑maker especially when used in favorable alignments.

However, his somewhat smaller frame, earlier run‑stop inconsistencies, and injury concerns temper his projection. He may be less ideal as a three‑down, every‑down “big box” linebacker expected to take on heavy blocks and anchor against power runs than he is as a modern, hybrid linebacker who thrives in space, coverage, and pursuit opportunities.

Strengths

• Sideline‑to‑sideline speed & pursuit
  Greenlaw consistently shows excellent range and the ability to chase down plays from sideline to sideline. Profileers noted his “great sideline to sideline movement” and “NFL‑quality speed.” Arkansas Fight

• Coverage ability, especially in space
  Despite being a linebacker, he has legitimate coverage skills. He plays with control and balance, showing the ability to match up in both man and zone schemes. Chat Sports

• High motor & physicality in open field
  His relentlessness and physical tackling style stand out—his new coaching staff described his hits in pads as unmistakable and impactful. Denver Broncos

• Instincts & play recognition
  Evaluators pointed to his ability to read plays, locate the ball quickly, and be consistently involved when “locked in.” Bleacher Report

Weaknesses

• Size/physical frame concerns
  At about 6′0″ and 230 lbs, Greenlaw is undersized compared to many modern inside linebackers asked to play in the box or take on big backs and tight ends. One draft report said: “Lacks NFL frame and will struggle to compete against NFL‑caliber size and physicality.” Arkansas Fight

• Block‑shedding and stop‑gap run defense
  Early in his career, he was critiqued for his ability to shed blocks or consistently defend between the tackles. One profile: “Hops, dips and bends around blocks too often … doesn’t show refined technique to stack out offensive linemen and disengage.” Chat Sports

• Injury history and durability questions
  After a standout stretch, he suffered a significant Achilles injury and subsequent setbacks. Reports note concerns about whether he will return fully to previous form. Mile High Report

• Role ceiling & scheme fit
  Some scouts believed his best value was as a coverage‑type linebacker or sub‑package rather than a traditional thumper or every‑down middle linebacker in any defensive scheme. Arkansas Fight

Fit & Outlook

• Fit:
  Greenlaw fits extremely well in defenses that value speed, versatility, and sub‑package usage—especially ones deploying multiple linebackers in varied alignments. In the Broncos’ system, he is expected to bolster the middle of the defense, contribute in coverage, and enhance their physicality. ESPN.com

• Outlook:

• Short‑Term: If healthy, Greenlaw should step in as a key starter for Denver, bringing immediate impact in coverage and tackling. His physicality could also elevate the team’s intermediate run‑defense and second‑level presence.

• Medium‑Term: With sustained health and further polish in block‑shedding and inside run‑defense, he could become one of the better all‑round inside linebackers in the league—especially in modern defenses that stress movement and coverage.