Drew Sanders Gets Positive Update from the Denver Broncos

Drew Sanders Gets Positive Update from the Denver Broncos explores the encouraging news the second-year linebacker received from the franchise—focused on his recovery from a mid-2023 ankle injury and his expanded role in the 2024 defensive scheme—a development that signals the Broncos’ confidence in his potential to become a core defensive contributor. Sanders, a 2023 third-round draft pick out of Arkansas, showed flashes of promise as a rookie (28 tackles, 2 sacks) before his injury sidelined him for the final four games. The positive update, shared by head coach Sean Payton and defensive coordinator Vance Joseph in early 2024, covers two key areas: his full clearance for off-season workouts and plans to give him more reps in pass-rushing packages. Drew Sanders Gets Positive Update from the Denver Broncos highlights how this news not only boosts Sanders’ morale but also strengthens the Broncos’ defensive depth as they aim to compete for the AFC West title.

Drew Sanders Gets Positive Update from the Denver Broncos starts with the details of his injury recovery—a key component of the encouraging news. After suffering a high ankle sprain in Week 14 against the New England Patriots, Sanders underwent a minimally invasive procedure to speed healing and spent the off-season following a customized rehab plan with the Broncos’ medical staff. In late January 2024, team doctors cleared him for all football activities, including full-contact drills—a milestone that Payton emphasized during a press conference. “Drew’s recovery has been ahead of schedule,” Payton said. “Our medical team did a great job, and Drew put in the work—he’s ready to hit the ground running in off-season workouts.” Sanders echoed that optimism, noting that the ankle feels “stronger than before the injury” and that he’s been able to resume his usual training routine, including weightlifting and agility drills. The clearance is critical because it allows Sanders to participate fully in the Broncos’ off-season program, where he can compete for more playing time and build chemistry with new defensive teammates. Drew Sanders Gets Positive Update from the Denver Broncos recognizes this recovery milestone as a foundation for Sanders’ potential breakthrough in 2024.

Drew Sanders Gets Positive Update from the Denver Broncos turns to the second part of the good news: the Broncos’ plan to expand his role in the defense. Defensive coordinator Vance Joseph revealed that Sanders will be featured in more pass-rushing packages next season, leveraging his athleticism (he ran a 4.62 40-yard dash at the NFL Combine) to pressure quarterbacks from the edge and middle linebacker positions. “Drew has the versatility we need—he can set the edge against the run and rush the passer from multiple spots,” Joseph said. “We saw glimpses of it last year, like his sack against Russell Wilson in the preseason, and we want to build on that.” The expanded role includes reps with the first-team defense during off-season practices, a opportunity Sanders didn’t get as a rookie. To prepare, Sanders has been studying film with veteran edge rusher Bradley Chubb, who has mentored him on pass-rushing techniques. “Chubb’s been showing me how to read offensive linemen’s hands and set up my moves,” Sanders said. “Having that guidance, plus the Broncos’ trust to give me more reps, makes me excited for next season.” Drew Sanders Gets Positive Update from the Denver Broncos underscores how this expanded role reflects the Broncos’ belief in Sanders’ ability to grow into a impactful defensive player.

Drew Sanders Gets Positive Update from the Denver Broncos underscores how the Denver Broncos’ investment in Sanders’ development aligns with their broader defensive strategy for 2024. The team, which ranked 12th in sacks in 2023 (39 total), is looking to add more depth to its pass rush to compete with AFC West quarterbacks like Patrick Mahomes and Justin Herbert. By expanding Sanders’ role, the Broncos aim to create a rotation of pass rushers that keeps opponents off balance—Chubb and Nik Bonitto will handle primary edge duties, while Sanders provides a change of pace with his speed and flexibility. “We need multiple guys who can get to the quarterback,” Payton said. “Drew gives us that, and his ability to play both linebacker spots makes our defense more versatile.” The Denver Broncos’ focus on developing young talent like Sanders also signals a shift from relying solely on free agents to building through the draft—a strategy that has worked for division rivals like the Chiefs. For Sanders, this investment means more opportunities to prove himself, and for the Broncos, it’s a low-risk, high-reward move that could strengthen their defense for years to come.

Drew Sanders Gets Positive Update from the Denver Broncos highlights how the Denver Broncos’ positive update has boosted team morale, particularly among the defensive unit. Teammates like safety Justin Simmons and linebacker Alex Singleton have praised Sanders’ work ethic during rehab, with Singleton noting that “Drew never missed a meeting or a rehab session—he’s the kind of guy you want on your team.” The news has also generated excitement among fans, who took to social media to share clips of Sanders’ rookie highlights and express optimism about his 2024 season. The Broncos’ coaching staff has used Sanders’ recovery and expanded role as a example for other young players, emphasizing that hard work and patience pay off. “Drew’s story shows that if you put in the work, this organization will invest in you,” Joseph said. The Denver Broncos’ ability to develop young players like Sanders is critical to their long-term success, as it allows them to retain talent and avoid overspending in free agency. For Sanders, the positive update isn’t just about his own future—it’s about contributing to a defense that’s aiming to be one of the best in the NFL.

Drew Sanders Gets Positive Update from the Denver Broncos concludes with how the Denver Broncos’ support for Sanders positions him for a breakout 2024 season and strengthens the team’s defensive outlook. With full health, an expanded role, and mentorship from veterans like Chubb, Sanders has all the tools to improve on his rookie stats and become a key part of the Broncos’ defense. Payton has already set high expectations, noting that he expects Sanders to “compete for a starting spot” in training camp. For the Broncos, a strong season from Sanders would mean a more dynamic pass rush, better run defense, and more flexibility in their defensive schemes—all critical to challenging the Chiefs for the AFC West title. “Drew has the potential to be a special player,” Payton said. “We’re excited to see what he can do when he gets more opportunities.” The Denver Broncos’ positive update for Sanders is more than just good news for one player—it’s a sign that the team’s rebuild is on track, with young talent emerging to complement their veteran core. Drew Sanders Gets Positive Update from the Denver Broncos ends with a clear takeaway: for Sanders and the Broncos, 2024 is a chance to turn potential into production—and the positive update is the first step in that journey. As Sanders puts it, “I’m ready to repay the Broncos’ trust. This season is going to be special.”