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Denver Broncos linebacker Dre Greenlaw was suspended for one game by the NFL for unsportsmanlike conduct following the team’s victory over the New York Giants on Sunday.
The suspension was a direct result of Greenlaw's actions immediately after the game concluded. According to the NFL, the linebacker chased down referee Brad Allen as the official was leaving the field and allegedly "verbally threatened" him. The league views any physical or verbal confrontation with officials as a serious violation of player conduct, especially after the contest is over.
He will miss the Broncos' upcoming matchup against the Dallas Cowboys.
Why was Dre Greenlaw suspended?
Greenlaw was suspended for one game by the NFL for unsportsmanlike conduct after the Broncos beat the Giants, 33-32, following a 33-point fourth quarter.
#Broncos LB Dre Greenlaw has been suspended by the NFL one game for his actions here toward referee Brad Allen after the team’s game-winning field goal. pic.twitter.com/zyIKYvcYrK
— Mike Garafolo (@MikeGarafolo) October 20, 2025The specific reason for the suspension was that Greenlaw chased down referee Brad Allen as the official was exiting the field and "verbally threatened" him. The NFL views this direct confrontation and verbal abuse of an official after a game as a serious violation of the league's conduct policy.
The suspension took effect immediately, meaning Greenlaw will miss the Broncos' upcoming Week 8 game against the Dallas Cowboys. He did appeal, but the suspension was upheld on Oct. 21.
MORE: How the Broncos completed an epic comeback vs. Giants
Why did Dre Greenlaw threaten a ref?
Greenlaw threatened referee Allen because of some questionable officiating calls made against the Broncos during Sunday's game against the Giants.
The Broncos' sideline, including head coach Sean Payton -- who was flagged earlier in the game -- was visibly frustrated with the penalties called against them. Greenlaw, who had just made his season debut after recovering from a quad injury, channeled this frustration by chasing after Allen as the official attempted to leave the field.
This was Greenlaw's first game with the Broncos and first game since Super Bowl LVIII, where he tore his Achilles.
Unsportsmanlike conduct penalties
According to the NFL rulebook, the definition of unsportsmanlike conduct "applies to any act which is contrary to the generally understood principles of sportsmanship." This broad category encompasses any action deemed unprofessional or inappropriate for the field of play.
While an offending player automatically receives an in-game penalty (typically 15 yards), the NFL can impose further disciplinary actions after the game concludes. These penalties include subject to a fine, ejection from the contest, or even a suspension without pay.
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