Denver Broncos Players History

Tom Nalen

2010-04-01T14:18:00.002-04:00

April is upon us, and as all Bronco fans knows, that means the NFL Draft. I thought I would start the month with one of the best draft choices the Broncos have ever had. Tom Nalen was drafted in the 7th round out of Boston College in 1994. He would go on to play 194 games (188 starts) for the Broncos over the next 14 years before retiring after the 2008 season. Over the course of his career, #66 played in 5 Pro Bowls and won 2 Super Bowls. He was named the starting center on the Broncos 50th Anniversary team. Should be about 3 more years before we see his name on the Ring of Fame. He was also known for being super photogenic.

Clarence Kay

2010-01-21T14:03:00.002-05:00

Clarence Kay was a tight end who played for the Broncos for 9 years from 1984-1992. He played his entire career for the Broncos after being drafted in the 7th round out of Georgia. He wore number 88. He was a solid tight end for the Broncos, who was probably more known for his off the field troubles than for his production on the field. He was reportedly arrested at least 12 times between 1984-2006. I remember him having a sweet touchdown catch in a playoff win against Houston.

http://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/K/KayxCl00.htm

Bobby Humphrey

2009-10-27T14:09:00.003-04:00

Bobby Humphrey was your classic flash-in-the-pan running back for the Broncos for 2 seasons in 1989 and 1990. Taken in the 1st round of the supplemental draft in 1989 out of Alabama, Bobby had been a two time All-American in college. He wore number 26.

In his rookie season he ran for 1,151 yards and started the Super Bowl in which the Broncos got waxed by the 49ers 55-10. In his second season, he passed the 1,200 yard mark and was selected to the Pro Bowl. Following this season, he chose to hold out for a better contract. The Broncos told him to pound sand, and Humphrey sat out until week 14 of that season. By that time, the Broncos has moved on with Gaston Green at running back. After the season, Denver traded him to the Dolphins for Sammie Smith. Neither Humphrey or Smith amounted to squat from that day forward.

Check out the pictures above. I love the irony of the college all american team picture. Humphrey is number 26. They guy sitting near him wearing number 44, is none other than his eventual replacement: Gaston Green. Bobby was also well known for rocking a sweet flattop.

http://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/H/HumpBo00.htm

Al Wilson

2009-09-29T14:16:00.002-04:00

Al Wilson was a middle linebacker and leader of the Broncos defense from 1999-2006. He wore #56 for the Broncos after being a #1 draft choice out of Tennessee. He was named to 5 Pro Bowls during his career and was a 2 time All-Pro. His career was cut short after injuring his neck against Seattle 2006. He played the next week, but never played after that season.

He was known for his hard hits and for consistently being in the right spot to make the tackle on defense. One of the best linebackers in team history.

Gerald Willhite

2009-08-25T15:34:00.002-04:00

Gerald Willhite was a running back for the Broncos from 1982-1988. A number 1 draft choice out of San Jose State, Willhite wore number 47 for the Broncos. He never did live up to his 1st round status, but he did score 23 touchdowns as a Bronco. He was known for doing flips after scoring touchdowns. His career came to an abrupt end when he was tackled from behind by a bastage by the name of Joey Browner.

http://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/W/WillGe00.htm

Orson Mobley

2009-07-10T14:10:00.002-04:00

Orson Mobley was a tight end for the Broncos for 5 years from 1986-1990. He was drafted in the 6th round out of Salem after transferring from Florida State. He wore number 89. He played in 3 Super Bowls for the Broncos in his 5 years, starting 2 of them. He had 84 catches in his career. He also had 4 regular season touchdowns and 1 more in the 1989 AFC Championship Game against Cleveland. At 256 pounds, he was considered large by tight end standards in the 1980's. I seem to remember him hyperventilating on the sideline after a couple of longer runs.

http://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/M/MoblOr00.htm

Kenny Walker

2009-06-19T11:08:00.002-04:00

Kenny Walker was a defensive lineman drafted in the 8th round out of Nebraska in 1991. Deaf since the age of 2 after a bout of meningitis, Kenny was only the 2nd deaf player to play in the NFL. After a very strong rookie season, he played only one more season before being out of football. He wore number 96. He has a book entitled "Roar of Silence: The Kenny Walker Story."

Mike Croel

2009-05-29T13:42:00.003-04:00

Mike Croel was drafted #4 overall in 1991 out of Nebraska. He played outside linebacker and wore number 51. He recorded 10 sacks his rookie year and was named the Defensive Rookie of the Year by the NFL. After that season he only recorded 14 more sacks than I have for my career (which is 0). A classic flash in the pan, he played 4 years for the Broncos before bouncing around the NFL for a few years. He is also known for his sweet flat top. I also enjoyed finding the picture of his blatantly illegal "leading with the helmet" hit on Jeff Hostetler. Of course, as a Raider, he deserves every dirty hit just based on principal.

http://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/C/CroeMi20.htm

Bernard Jackson

2009-05-20T08:56:00.003-04:00

Bernard Jackson was a defensive back for the Broncos from 1977-1980. He was the starting free safety for the Broncos during their Orange Crush days. He wore number 29. He played his college ball at Washington State and played for the Bengals before coming to the Broncos. He passed away from liver cancer in 1997.

2nd Annual Draft Review (Part 2)

2009-05-06T09:19:00.010-04:00

Round 4: David Bruton, S Notre Dame

Another safety to provide depth. Mcdaniels calls him the best special teams player in the draft. The Broncos can use all the help they can get in that area.

Recorded 85 tackles, three interceptions and 4.5 TFLs as a junior before registering 91 tackles, four interceptions and two forced fumbles as a senior...One of the lone bright spots on an otherwise disappointing team at Notre Dame...Has good speed for the safety position and closes on the ball quickly...Has above average ball skills...Catches the ball at its highest point when given the opportunity...Height is a definite advantage, and a strong upper body enabled Bruton to fight for the football in traffic...Big-time special teams contributor in college who will likely make a name for himself in that role in the NFL...Is not a superior athlete....Does not excel in coverage, especially against quick receivers...May not be physical enough to make a major impact in defending the run at the pro level.

Round 4: Seth Olsen, OG Iowa

Good run-blocking guard who should provide depth.

Olsen has a terrific understanding of the game and his position...Technically heis above average and also possesses great awareness...He plays with a nastyattitude and has plenty of experience...Athletically limited...Olsen needs tobulk up and gain more strength...His durability is a question mark.

Round 5: Kenny McKinley WR South Carolina

Solid college receiver who can add depth. Will probably have to make his mark on special teams.

First Team All-SEC performer as a junior in 2007 when he recorded a school-record 77 catches for 968 yards and nine touchdowns...Finished career as South Carolina's all-time leader in receptions (207) and receiving yards (2,781)...Only reliable wide receiver for the team during his tenure...Gets off the ball quickly and has a ton of experience against top-level SEC talent...Understands how to get separation from defenders...Catches the ballwith his hands rather than his body and is able to make grabs in traffic...Can catch the ball while running at full speed and secures it quickly...A very tough player despite a rather smallish frame...Very productive but never viewed as dominant...Needs to add bulk for NFL success...Does not possess elite speed.

Round 6: Tom Brandstater, QB Fresno State

Not a real surprise that McDaniels would take a late round chance on a QB after his success developing Matt Cassell. Brandstater fits the Cassell mold and has a strong arm.

A three-year starter for Fresno State, Brandstater finished his career with the Bulldogs as their team MVP, completing 60 percent of his pass attempts for 2,664 yards and 18 touchdowns...The signal-caller threw for an average of almost 205 ypg in 2008, but he was also picked off 12 times and didn't always get the offense moving in the right direction when the Bulldogs needed a push...Part of the problem for Brandstater and FSU was that so many players on offense were in and out of the lineup due to injury, which is just one of the reasons why he failed to live up to his billing as the premier signal-caller in the Western Athletic Conference...Had a similar yardage average per game as a junior and made fewer mistakes (five INTs) while hitting for 15 TDs, but much of that was a credit went the running game which accounted for 34 rushing scores in 13 games...Has great size and tends to make the right reads, but his mobility is not the greatest and he needs significant playmakers around him to succeed.

Round 7: Blake Schlueter, C Texas Christian

This seems like a practice squad type of pick to me. Very fast for a lineman, but too light probably.

A three-time All-Mountain West Conference member, including earning Second-Team honors as a senior...Team captain as both a junior and senior...A bit undersized, but could excel in a zone-blocking scheme...Above-average athletic ability, quick off the snap and mobile...Plays with a bit of a nasty streak and has a good work ethic...Will need to get bigger and stronger to maximize potential at the next level.

2nd Annual Draft Review (Part 1)

2009-04-30T13:31:00.008-04:00

Round 1: Knowshon Moreno, RB Georgia

With their first pick, the Broncos drafted Knowshon Moreno from Georgia. I love this pick and the options it gives the offense. He is a great runner, as well as receiver and should really add another dimension to the offense. Neckbeard's job just got a little easier.

Decided to enter this draft after only two collegiate seasons and is considered by many to be the top running back prospect available...A phenomenal athlete who lands on highlight reels regularly with his tremendous leaping ability and ankle-breaking moves...Ran for 2,734 yards and 30 touchdowns in his two seasons with the Bulldogs and showed tremendous ability as a receiver as well...Is a well-built athlete who has proven capable of taking a hit...Can run both inside and outside effectively...Routinely breaks arm tackles...A highly competitive tailback who wants to be the one to make big plays in pressure situations...Is a willing and capable blocker...There is very little not to like about Moreno's game, as he is one of the most complete players at any position in this draft.

Round 1: Robert Ayers, DE/OLB Tennessee

I will really like this pick if Ayers can play DE in a 3-4 defense. He seems a little small to me, but maybe he can grow into the position.

In 2008, he became a full-time starter and broke through for 49 stops, 15.5 TFLs and three sacks...A First-Team All-SEC selection by the league's coaches and Second-Team by the Associated Press as a senior. Named the Senior Bowl's Outstanding Defensive Player after notching three tackles and 1.5 sacks...Has decent height with good bulk and long arms...Athletic and versatile...Quick burst off the ball and uses hands well to fight off blockers...Not an elite pass rusher, only nine sacks in his career...Could stand to add some upper body strength...Lacks discipline and was hard to coach earlier in his career.

Round 2: Alphonso Smith, CB Wake Forest

Looks like a solid pick that will provide depth if nothing else. A playmaker, hopefully he can turn his collegiate interception rate into something in the pros.

Owner of the ACC record for career interceptions with 21...Named First-Team All-ACC as a junior and senior and a First-Team All-American in 2008...Finished his career with 188 tackles and 40 PBUs...Started all 11 games in 2005 and posted 59 tackles, including 52 solo, and three picks...Appeared in 14 games, making three starts, in 2006 and finished the season with 48 stops, 8.5 TFLs, three INTs and eight PBUs...In 2007, he started all 13 games and recorded 44 tackles, a career-high eight INTs, 10 PBUs and four forced fumbles...He alsoreturned three picks for touchdowns...As a senior, he turned in 37 tackles, 13 PBUs and seven INTs in making 13 starts...Possesses elite speed...Great athlete with good instincts...Solid hands and dangerous runner in the open field...Fluid hips...Playmaker...Plays with a mean streak...Doesn't have ideal height...Could stand to add some more strength.

Round 2: Darcel McBath, S Texas Tech

Any safety help is needed by the Broncos. The safeties they had last year made Bronco fans wish longingly for the days of Tony Lilly.

Made 70 tackles and six interceptions in 2008, and three of the picks came in one game...Played against plenty of NFL-caliber offensive talent in the Big 12...Helped to lead the Texas Tech program to great success, especially this past season...An experienced guy with outstanding overall athleticism...A smart player who is able to recognize formations and quickly analyze plays...Is a leader on the field...Anticipates passes and has solid ball skills...Not a big-time hitter and didn't make many stops around the line of scrimmage...Much more steady than spectacular...Does not possess elite speed.

Round 2: Richard Quinn, TE North Carolina

Drafted as a blocking TE, I would assume. Should team well with Daniel Graham to provide lots of holes for Knowhon to run through.

A polished blocker in the college ranks...Didn't showcase much in terms of a receiver at North Carolina, with just eight receptions, for 97 yards and one TD in 13 games in 2008...Career numbers are 12 receptions, 124 yards and two TDs...Missed the entire 2006 season after fracturing a shoulder blade in fall practice...Great size and size potential...Fluid athlete with good football instincts...Hard worker who could have a long career as a blocking tight end in the NFL.

Greg Kragen

2009-04-20T15:06:00.002-04:00

Greg Kragen was a defensive tackle who played 9 years for the Broncos from 1985-1993. He wore number 71. He was elected to one Pro Bowl in 1989. Undrafted out of Utah State, he was cut his first year by the Broncos, but made the team his second time around. He ended up playing 1 year for the Chefs, and then was selected in the expansion draft by the Carolina Panthers when the joined the NFL in 1995. He played 3 years for the Panthers before retiring. He was undersized as a defensive tackle and was well known as being scrappy, and even made the All-Madden team one year. He is also widely known for enjoying Gatorade and for having less than desirable pictures on his cards. Somehow, he always seemed to be squinting. I think it is a conspiracy by all of the football card manufacturers, but all of my querees to get to the bottom of it have turned up empty.

http://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/K/KragGr00.htm

Simon Fletcher

2009-04-02T11:21:00.002-04:00

Simon Fletcher played for the Broncos from 1985 to 1995. He was a second round draft choice out of the University of Houston. He wore #73 and played both Outside Linebacker and Defensive End. He is the Broncos' career sacks leader with 97.5. He also holds the NFL record for consecutive games with a sack with 10.

http://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/F/FletSi20.htm

Barney Chavous

2009-03-04T09:24:00.002-05:00

Barney Chavous was a defensive end for the Broncos from 1973-1985. He was a second round draft choice out of South Carolina State. After playing his rookie season as a DT, he spent the rest of his career as a defensive end. A member of the famed "Orange Crush" defense, he wore number 79. He also rocked a sweet beard that made him look a little sasquatchish. He is currently a head coach at a high school in Georgia. He ranks third on the Broncos all time with 75 sacks.

Steve Foley

2009-02-05T10:21:00.002-05:00

Steve Foley was a defensive back who spent his entire NFL career with the Broncos from 1976-1986. He was a member of the famed Orange Crush defense and wore number 43. He was drafted out of Tulane in the 8th round. He holds the Broncos all time interception record with 44. He was named All-Pro in 1978.

Stephen James Foley (born November 11, 1953 in New Orleans, Louisiana) is a former American football safety in the National Football League. He played his entire 11-year NFL career (1976-1986) with the Denver Broncos after one year (1975) with the Jacksonville Express of the World Football League.
As a member of the Broncos, Foley played in the Super Bowl twice. He was a starter in Super Bowl XII against the Dallas Cowboys and played in Super Bowl XXI (his final game) against the New York Giants. The Broncos lost both of these games.
Foley scored two touchdowns in his career, both of which came in 1984. He returned a fumble 22 yards on October 15 against the Green Bay Packers and an interception 40 yards on December 15 against the Seattle Seahawks. These scores were key contributions to Broncos' victories.

http://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/F/FoleSt20.htm

Mike Shanahan

2008-12-31T09:00:00.002-05:00

This blog has always been about Broncos players, but I find it fitting to put in the winningest coach in franchise history in today's spot. Mike was fired yesterday after going 138-86 in 14 seasons. Here is his wikipedia page:

Michael Edward Shanahan (born August 24, 1952) is a former American football head coach, most recently for the Denver Broncos. He led the Broncos to back-to-back Super Bowl victories in 1998 and 1999. He is the father of Houston Texans Offensive Coordinator Kyle Shanahan.
Contents[hide]
1 Early career
2 NFL career
2.1 San Francisco 49ers
2.2 Denver Broncos
3 Head coaching record
4 Accomplishments
5 Personal
6 References
7 External links
//

Early career
Shanahan played high school football at East Leyden High School, where he played wishbone quarterback. He had the single-game rushing record until 1976 when it was broken by Dennis Cascio. The record is now held by Ricky Emery. Shanahan was an undersized quarterback at Eastern Illinois University in the 1970s before a hard hit on the practice field ruptured one of his kidneys, nearly killing him.[citation needed]
With his playing career abruptly ended, Shanahan entered coaching. After graduation, he served as an assistant coach at Northern Arizona University and the University of Oklahoma. He then returned to his alma mater as offensive coordinator and helped his school win the Division II football championship. Shanahan also worked at the University of Florida and the University of Minnesota, turning around both schools and making them into offensive powerhouses, before making the jump to the NFL.

NFL career
Shanahan served as a quarterbacks coach and later offensive coordinator for the Broncos under Dan Reeves in the 1980s and had a brief stint as the head coach of the Los Angeles Raiders in 1988–89. He went 8–12 with the Raiders in less than two seasons before being fired and returning to the Broncos as an offensive assistant again under Reeves. Shanahan was later fired by Reeves after finding himself in the middle of a growing feud between Reeves and quarterback John Elway.

San Francisco 49ers
In 1992, Shanahan was hired as offensive coordinator for the San Francisco 49ers on George Seifert's staff, capping his rise with a Super Bowl victory after the 1994 season. The 49ers offense that year has been hailed as one of the greatest of all time, with the likes of Steve Young, Jerry Rice, Brent Jones, John Taylor, William Floyd and Ricky Watters scoring points in flurries. His years under Seifert placed him in the Bill Walsh coaching tree.

Denver Broncos
Shanahan's success with the 49ers earned him a head coaching spot once more, this time back in Denver with the Broncos beginning in 1995. Shanahan led Elway and the Broncos to back-to-back Super Bowl championships in the 1997 and 1998 seasons, during which time the Broncos set a then-record for victories in two seasons. He was the last coach to win two consecutive titles until New England's Bill Belichick did it during the 2003 and 2004 NFL seasons. Between 1996-1998, the Broncos set the NFL record for victories by going 46–10 over a three-year span. The 1998 Broncos won their first 13 games on their way to a 14–2 mark. Shanahan, taking his cue from West Coast offense guru Bill Walsh, was well-known for scripting the first 15 offensive plays of the game, and helped the '98 Broncos set an NFL record for first quarter points scored in a season.
Shanahan is known for a run-heavy variation of the West Coast offense he coached in San Francisco. He has often found unheralded running backs from later rounds of the annual NFL Draft and then turned them into league-leading rushers behind small-but-powerful offensive lines. Examples of this phenomenon are Terrell Davis, Mike Anderson, Olandis Gary, Reuben Droughns and Tatum Bell, all of whom have had at least one 1,000-yard season in a Denver uniform over the past 10 years.
Shanahan faced criticism for not delivering a playoff victory since Elway's retirement and Davis' career-ending injuries. The playoff drought ended on January 14, 2006 when the Broncos defeated the two-time defending Super Bowl champion New England Patriots in the AFC Divisional Round of the playoffs at Invesco Field at Mile High. Coincidentally, Shanahan has the best record for any active coach against Bill Belichick. Including the postseason win, Shanahan is 5–2 against Belichick's Patriots, the five wins coming in the last six meetings.
In 1999, with the assistance of writer Adam Schefter, Shanahan penned Think Like a Champion, a motivational book about leadership. It was published by Harper Collins.
On December 30, 2008, Shanahan was fired after the Broncos failed to make the playoffs during the 2008 NFL season.[1] It was the third consecutive year in which Denver didn't make the playoffs. Shanahan had a coaching record of 24-24 over those three seasons.

Thanks for the 2 Super Bowls, Mike. Best of luck in wherever you go. Unless it is the Lions.

Rick Upchurch

2008-11-26T09:25:00.003-05:00

Before Rod Smith wore #80 for the Broncos, there was Rick Upchurch. A 4 time Pro Bowler and a member of the NFL's all 80's team, Rick is one of the greatest kick returners in NFL History. Here is his info from Wikipedia:

Richard "Rick" Upchurch (born May 20, 1952 in Toledo, Ohio) is former professional American football player who played wide receiver for the Denver Broncos (1975-1983) of the NFL. Before his NFL career, he played for the University of Minnesota and went to highschool at springfield high school in holland ohio. In 2000, Upchurch was named one of the 300 best NFL players of all time [1].
In his 9 NFL seasons, Upchurch excelled as a receiver and a kick returner on special teams. In his rookie season, he rushed for 97 yards, caught 18 passes for 436 yards, returned 27 punts for 312 yards, and added another 1,014 yards returning kickoffs. In his second season, he set an NFL record by returning 4 punts for touchdowns and made the Pro Bowl. In the 1977 season, he led the NFL with 653 punt return yards and assisted his team to their first ever Super Bowl appearance. The Broncos lost Super Bowl XII to the Dallas Cowboys 27-10, but he had a good performance in the game. Upchurch amassed 125 total offensive yards (94 kickoff return, 22 punt return, 9 receiving), including a Super Bowl record 67-yard kickoff return in the 3rd quarter that set up Denver's only touchdown of the game.
Upchurch stayed with the Broncos until the 1983 season. He led the NFL in punt return average twice (1978 and 1982), and was selected to the pro bowl 3 more times (1978, 1979, 1982). He finished his 9 season career with 49 carries for 349 rushing yards, 267 receptions for 4,369 yards, 248 punt returns for 3,008 yards, and 95 kickoff returns for 2,355 yards. Overall, Upchurch gained 10,081 total yards and scored 35 touchdowns: 8 punt return, 24 receiving, 3 rushing. He was also selected All-Pro 5 times. At the time of his retirement, his 8 punt returns for touchdowns tied the NFL record shared by Jack Christiansen. He is one of five players to record a career average of over 12 yards per punt return.
Upchurch dated and was briefly engaged to Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice in the 1970s. She left him because, according to her biographer Marcus Mabry, "She knew the relationship wasn't going to work on an intellectual level".[3] He is currently married and has 4 children.[2]
In 2005, Upchurch became the head football coach at East High School in Pueblo, Colorado. Upchurch currently resides in Mesquite, Nevada and frequently visits nearby communities such as St. George, Utah and Logandale, Nevada to sign autographs for Broncos fans.

http://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/U/UpchRi00.htm

Wymon Henderson

2008-10-27T13:48:00.002-04:00

Wymon Henderson was a cornerback who played 4 seasons for the Broncos from 1989-1992. He wore number 24 and actually started those 4 years in Denver. He went to UNLV. He also played in the USFL as well as 2 seasons a piece with the Vikings and Rams. He is mostly remembered for rocking some sweet prescription raquetball goggles. These are quite obvious in all of the above pictures.

Mike Horan

2008-09-26T10:43:00.002-04:00

Mike Horan was the punter for the Broncos from 1986-1992 and appeared in 3 Super Bowls with the team. He wore number 2 and rocked a sweet mustache. He was voted to the Pro Bowl after the 1988 season. He ended up playing for 16 seasons in the NFL and won a Super Bowl with the Rams. He was well known for being adept at using the "coffin corner" technique of pinning the other team deep in its own territory.

Rulon Jones

2008-08-28T11:11:00.002-04:00

Rulon Jones was a defensive end for the Broncos in the 1980's. Drafted in 1980 out of Utah State, Rulon played for the Broncos until he retired after the 1988 season. He was named to 2 Pro Bowls, and racked up 52.5 QB sacks in his career. He now owns and operates hunting ranches in Utah and Idaho. That is him in the back of the picture with the bear. His Starting Lineup is one of the most rare figures, with some going for $150 on ebay. Nerds.

Rex Mirich

2008-08-04T12:35:00.002-04:00

Rex Mirich played 3 years as a defensive lineman with the Broncos in the 1960's. He played at Northern Arizona University. That is all I know about him. I only picked him because he looks exactly like the Dad from the Wonder Years.

http://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/M/MiriRe20.htm

Keith Bishop

2008-07-18T11:28:00.002-04:00

Keith Bishop played guard for the Broncos from 1980-1989. He was originally a 6th round draft choice out of Baylor. He wore #54. He is most famously remembered for uttering the words "Now we got em right where we want em" during the 1986 AFC Championship Game. This was at the beginning of "The Drive" when the Broncos were at their own 2 yard line and down 7 in the fourth quarter. Obviously, the Broncos won that game, and Keith's words have lived on. He participated in the Strong Man Competion early in his career. Notice the nice sumo thong thing he is wearing in the picture. He now works as a DEA agent based out of Virginia.

Rubin Carter

2008-07-02T10:36:00.003-04:00

Rubin Carter wore number 68 as the nosetackle of the Broncos' famed Orange Crush Defense. Widely regarded as the first true nosetackle in NFL history, Rubin was drafted out of the U of Miami in the 5th round in 1975. He spent from 1975-1986 playing for the Broncos. He is the father of NFL player Andre Carter. He recently was fired as head coach of Florida A & M University. He shares a name with former heavyweight and wrongly accused criminal Rubin "Hurricane" Carter.

Lyle Alzado

2008-06-17T11:39:00.002-04:00

He played college football for Kilgore College, a junior college, for two years, and then Yankton College in South Dakota, where he was noticed by a Denver Broncos coach watching film. The Broncos drafted him in the fourth round, in 1971. Alzado went back to Yankton after his rookie season to get his college degree. He received a B.A. in physical education with an emphasis on secondary education. During his career, he played defensive line for the Los Angeles Raiders, Cleveland Browns, and Denver Broncos during the 1970s and early 1980s. He was noted as a colorful and popular figure with the Broncos, Browns and Raiders. When the Broncos starting right defensive end was injured in 1971, Alzado took over the job and never gave it up. Alzado made various All-rookie teams for his contributions of 60 tackles and 8 sacks. The following year, Alzado began to get national attention as he racked up 10½ sacks to go with his 91 tackles. In 1973, Alzado posted excellent numbers as the Broncos had a winning record for the first time in team history with a 7-5-2 mark. Alzado especially shined in a Monday Night Football game that season. In 1974, Alzado gained more notice as one publication named him All-AFC, with his 13 sacks and 80 tackles (eight for a loss) he was being recognized with the NFL's top defensive ends, such as Elvin Bethea, Jack Youngblood,L.C. Greenwood, Claude Humphrey, and Carl Eller. The Denver Broncos posted their second consecutive winning season, going 7-6-1. The 1975 season brought change as Alzado moved to defensive tackle for the first time in the NFL. He responded with 91 tackles and 7 sacks. Alzado took a step backward as did the Broncos with a 6-8 record. On the first play ofthe 1976 season, Alzado blew out a knee and missed that campaign. The Broncos were 9-5 but SPORT magazine reported a Bronco player mutiny. Twelve players, including Alzado, did not think the team could reach the next level, the playoffs, with Coach John Ralston. Ownership finally agreed and hired Red Miller for the 1977 season. The 1977 season was the most successful in franchise history to that point;the Broncos had one of the NFL's best defenses and went 12-2 and then beat Pittsburgh Steelers and Oakland Raiders in the playoffs to reach Super BowlXII. In that game, played in New Orleans, they were beaten soundly 27-10 bythe Dallas Cowboys. Still, the year was a big success for Alzado, who was voted consensus All-Pro and consensus All-AFC as well as winning the UPI AFC Defensive Player of the Year. He also led the Broncos in sacks with 8, while making 80 tackles. The Broncos again went to the AFC playoffs, losing the first round to the eventual champions Steelers. Alzado had 77 tackles and 9 sacks and recorded his first NFL safety. (Alzado would record two more in his career, which ties him in second place all-time). He was 2nd team All-Pro and a consensusAll-AFC pick. In 1979 he had a contract dispute, and the Broncos traded him to the Cleveland Browns. He played well with the Browns, making second team All-AFC in 1979 while playing defensive end. Alzado had 80 tackles in that year to go with his seven sacks. The following year the Browns won the AFC Central division,losing to the Raiders in the Divisional round. Alzado led the Browns in sacks with nine, and was All-Pro and All-AFC. In 1981 he suffered some injuries, and at times his focus on football was diminished because of problems in his private life. Still, he recorded 83 tackles and led the Browns in sacks with 8½. However, the Browns traded him to the Los Angeles Raiders in 1982. Being discarded by the Browns rekindled a fire in Lyle, and he worked out with a vengeance. In 1982 Alzado was voted the NFL Comeback Player of the Year. Although he played a full season in 1981, his play was seemingly so superior in 1982 that he garnered the award. In the strike-shortened 1982 season of 9 games, Alzado recorded 7 sacks and 30 tackles while being voted All-AFC. This was the sixth season out of his first twelve campaigns that he received some sort of post-season honor. Lyle was one of the fiercest competitors the NFL has ever seen. In fact, due to Alzado throwing an opponent's helmet across the field, the league instituted a rule specifically banning the act.[1] He continued to perform well for the Raiders in the 1983 season, helping lead them to a Super Bowl that year while recording 50 tackles and 7½ sacks. He also had an outstanding 1984 season with 63 tackles and 6 sacks, but was injured part way through 1985 and retired at the end of the year. His tackle and sack totals dipped to 31 and 3. By any definition it was an excellent career, nearing 1,000 tackles, recording 112½ sacks and forcing 24 fumbles. He played in two Super Bowls and emerged a winner once. He attempted a comeback in 1990, but injured a knee during training camp and was released. After this he retired for good.However, his admitted use of anabolic steroids from the time he was in college has tainted his career achievements for some.

Marlin Briscoe

2008-06-11T08:54:00.003-04:00

Marlin Briscoe played one season with the Broncos in 1968. He is known as the first black quarterback. Here is his information from his wikipedia page:

Marlin Oliver Briscoe (born September 10, 1945 in Oakland, California) is a former professional American football wide receiver/quarterback who played for nine years. Before being drafted in 1967, Briscoe played high school football at Omaha South High School and college football at the University of Nebraska at Omaha. Briscoe started his career in the American Football League in 1968, with the Denver Broncos, where he became the first starting black quarterback of the modern era. In 1969 he went to the Buffalo Bills, and after the AFL-NFL merger, he played in the National Football League from 1970 though 1976, mostly with American Football Conference teams. During eight of his nine years, Briscoe was a receiver, but he is best known as the first modern African-American quarterback, playing the position as a rookie with the Broncos.
Marlin Briscoe was intercepted by Boston Patriots AFL All Star Defensive Back Leroy Mitchell in Denver's 35-14 rout of the Patriots @ Fenway Park on 11-03-68. He is the only player to be intercepted by a Patriot Player and catch a TD as a Patriot Receiver. (See 10-03-76)
From 1969-1971, Briscoe played for the Buffalo Bills as wide receiver. In 1970 he was in the top 2 in receptions and receiving yards and became an All-Pro.
From 1972-1974 He played for the Miami Dolphins and won 2 Super Bowl rings. He was the leading receiver on the Dolphins in 1973, catching more passes than future Pro Football Hall of Famer, Paul Warfield.
He ended his career in 1976 with the New England Patriots. Marlin had 10 receptions for 136 yards and 1 TD in 14 regular season games for the New England Patriots in 1976. He caught a 16 yard TD pass from Steve Grogan in the Patriots 48-17 destruction of the Oakland Raiders @ Schaefer Stadium on 10-03-76.
Today, he works with youths and has his own football camp for children.

http://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/B/BrisMa00.htm

Rich Karlis

2008-06-03T10:24:00.002-04:00

Richard John Karlis (born May 23, 1959, in Salem, Ohio) is a former American Football placekicker who played nine seasons for the Denver Broncos, the Minnesota Vikings, and the Detroit Lions in the National Football League from 1982 to 1990. He played college football at the University of Cincinnati and is known as the last of the field goal kickers who kicked barefoot full time in the NFL. Karlis is best known for kicking the game winning field goal in overtime for the Broncos against the Cleveland Browns in the 1986 AFC Championship game to reach Super Bowl XXI. He had a rather ironic performance in Super Bowl XXI, tying a Super Bowl record with a 48-yard field goal, but also missing a 23-yard attempt, the shortest missed field goal in Super Bowl history at that time. In 1989 he tied a then NFL record by kicking seven field goals in a game against the Los Angeles Rams, a record held until 2007. Karlis made 172 field goals and 283 extra point attempts for 799 points in his career and also holds Super Bowl records for most field goals attempts with six, making three of them and other records including most consecutive field goals made as a rookie with thirteen in 1982 and most field goals in a game with seven in 1990 in which he is tied with two other players.

He is also best known for having every one of his football cards to have his name as Rick instead of Rich. He also made quite the fashion statement when he would wear a moon boot to keep his foot warm on the sideline.

Sammy Winder

2008-05-28T11:27:00.003-04:00

Sammy Winder was a running back for the Broncos from 1982-1990. He wore number 23. Winder was a two-time Pro Bowl selection (1984 and 1986), and was a key player on the Broncos during the 1980's; assisting them to three Super Bowl appearances. In his 9 seasons, Winder rushed for 5,427 yards and 39 touchdowns, while also catching 197 passes for 1,302 yards and 9 touchdowns. He was known for a signature touchdown celebration that he called the'Mississippi Mud Walk'. Before his NFL career, Winder played football at The University of SouthernMississippi. I will always remember his 2 touchdown game in the 1989 AFC Championship game. When he scored off of a pass from John Elway, the camera was shaking from Mile High being so loud and shaky from the fans going wild. If I ever find a clip of it, I will post it here.

http://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/W/WindSa00.htm

Steve Watson

2008-05-20T08:32:00.003-04:00

One of the most popular players in team history, Watson was a wide receiverfor the Broncos from 1979-87, finishing his sterling career with 353 receptions for 6,112 yards (17.3 avg.) with 36 touchdowns. He ranks fifth on the Broncos’ career list for receiving yards, seventh in receptions and eighth in touchdown receptions. Watson also was recognized as an outstanding special teams player during his pro career. Watson had three 1,000-yard receiving seasons (1981, ‘83 and ‘84) and was named to the Pro Bowl in 1981. That year, he posted the best numbers of his career for receiving yardage (1,244), touchdowns (13) and reception average(20.7 yds.) while his career single-season high of 69 receptions came in1984. Watson had 16 100-yard receiving games and 49 consecutive games with at least one reception as a player. He had single-game highs of 11 receptions(1984, vs. Pittsburgh in the playoffs) and 183 receiving yards (on 10 receptions at the Los Angeles Rams in 1982). Watson, 50, joined the Broncos in 1979 as a free agent from Temple University, where he was a four-year letterman at wide receiver. He was selected to the All-East team, playing in the East-West Shrine Game to close out his college career. Watson also won three letters and two conference championships as a long jumper, graduating with a degree in parks administration.

http://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/W/WatsSt00.htm

Gene Mingo

2008-05-13T14:39:00.003-04:00

Gene Mingo was an all around threat for 5 years with the Broncos beginning with their inception.The first black field goal kicker in American professional football, Mingo was a very versatile player: he played several positions including halfback,kicker, and kickoff/punt returner. In 1960 he had the first punt return for a touchdown in the American Football League. That touchdown won the first-ever American Football League game, as the Broncos defeated the Patriots. Mingo also scored the first points in Mile High Stadium, then called Bears Stadium, with an 18-yard field goal. In the 1961 season opener at War Memorial Stadium against the Buffalo Bills, Mingo threw two touchdown passes from the halfback position, to help the Broncos win 22-10: a 50-yarder to Lionel Taylor in the first quarter, and a 52-yarder to Taylor in the third. Mingo kicked the PATs after each score. Gene Mingo led the American Football League in scoring in 1960 with 123 points and in 1962 with 137 points, and was an American Football League All-Star both years. He also holds the franchise record for the longest touchdown run, an 82-yarder against the Raiders in 1961. He wore #21 with the Broncos.

http://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/M/MingGe20.htm

Steve Sewell

2008-05-06T14:26:00.002-04:00

Steve Sewell was a running back drafted out of Oklahoma by the Broncos in the first round in 1985. More of an H-back or receiver out of the backfield, he didn't really carry the ball that often. Steve played his entire 7 year career, but never lived up to being a top draft choice.

Sewell appeared in 3 Super Bowls for the Broncos. He threw a 23-yardtouchdown pass to John Elway in a regular season game in 1986.

http://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/S/SeweSt00.htm

2008 Draft Part 2

2008-05-02T09:14:00.002-04:00

5th Round Carlton Powell, DT Virginia Tech

Powell should provide depth on a rotational basis in the middle of the defensive line. Known as a run stuffing tackle, he could certainly help the Broncos. Started for 3 years at Virginia Tech. Here is a little bit from NFL.com:

While Tech has produced quality run-stuffing tackles in recent seasons, none has shown the ability to simply shut down the opposition's ground game the way Carlton Powell, Jr. can.
How dominant has Powell been? In 73 plays that he made vs. the run, he held the opponent to minus-21 yards rushing. Since Powell was inserted into the starting lineup, Tech has led the nation in total defense the last two years (2005-06) and led the Division 1-A ranks in scoring defense in 2006, after placing second the previous two seasons. Good value pick for Denver

6th Round Spencer Larsen LB Arizona

Called the "heart and soul" of the Arizona defensive unit, opposing offensive coordinators feared the dominant and versatile defender.
Whether lining up at outside linebacker in a 4-3 alignment or playing inside in a 5-2 formation, few teams could contain Larsen with just one blocker.
The two-time team captain made a triumphant return to the gridiron in 2005 after missing the previous two seasons while on a church mission. During his freshman year at Arizona in 2002, the new coaching staff considered his return as an added recruiting bonus. Opposing ballcarriers considered his return a nightmare for fullbacks trying to block him and halfbacks trying to elude him on end-around runs. I just hope he can provide some depth and kick some tail on special teams. Hopefully another Burns.

7th Round Josh Barrett S Arizona State

Barrett had a great junior campaign and potentially could've been a third-round pick, but he got benched as a senior. He has all the measurables and exceptional speed, 4.36 in the 40. Barrett matured a lot after sitting and demonstrated poise when he came back. His lack of playing time, though, clearly hurt his draft stock. Hopefully he can provide some depth and be a terror on coverage units.

7th Round Peyton Hillis FB Arkansas

About time we had a true fullback. I am getting sick of these Mike Bell type fullbacks that can't block for squat. Hillis could have been a real steal. Hillis is one of the best fullbacks in the draft. Some had him rated higher than Owen Schmitt who was taken earlier. He was one of the main players responsible for opening up holes for first-rounders Felix Jones and Darren McFadden and will have a chance to contribute right away in the NFL as a blocking fullback.

Overall a solid draft for the Broncos. They addressed their needs at OT, WR, FB, Returner, and added depth all the way around. Not a lot of sexy picks, but overall a lot of players who are known for hard work and desire to play football. I give it a B.

2008 Draft Part 1

2008-04-29T12:29:00.003-04:00

All of my posts so far have been about Broncos players of the past. This week, I will look at the newest members of the franchise. Starting today with the first few rounds of this past weekend's draft:

1st Round: Ryan Clady, OT Boise State

I haven't figured out how to move pictures around yet, so Clady is the big guy in the blue pajamas wearing #79. Incredibly light on his feet for such a big man, Clady was drafted to replace the retired Matt Lepsis at left tackle. He should be quick enough to stay with pass rushers off the edge, while also having a lot of knowledge of the Broncos zone blocking scheme, as Boise State used it as well. Drafted to protect Jay Cutler and could start from day 1.

2nd Round: Eddie Royal, WR Virginia Tech

The Broncos have a big need for a return man, and Royal fits the bill. He should be the primary return man from day 1, and also may contribute as a slot receiver. I would imagine he would be dangerous on end-arounds and reverses also. He holds the Virginia Tech career record for all purpose yards and the ACC record for career punt return yards.

4th Round: Kory Lichtensteiger OL Bowling Green

A four year starter for the Falcons, Kory can play both guard and center. Known for solid technique and outstanding blocking ability, but also for a bit of a mean streak. I like this pick for that reason.

4th Round: Jack Williams CB Kent State

This guy can fly - he has great speed. He ran a 4.32 at his Pro Day and also had very impressive numbers in the cone drill and vertical jump. He's got good size for a corner. Given his athleticism, he could be underrated as a prospect and is a great value at this point in the draft.

5th Round: Ryan Torain RB Arizona State

It's hard to fault the Broncos when they take a running back in the later rounds. They have great success at unearthing hidden gems at this position. Torain started the season really well, but was derailed by a foot injury midway through the year. He's a junior college transfer that likes to run between the tackles. Given Denver's traditional success taking RBs in the middle rounds, the Arizona State product has potential to develop.

Tomorrow/Thursday: Part 2

Ricky Nattiel

2008-04-24T09:15:00.002-04:00

The Broncos drafted Ricky Nattiel in the first round of the 1987 NFL Draft out of Florida. As a wide receiver, he wore number 84 with Denver for 6 seasons. His rookie season was his best, with over 600 yards and a couple of touchdowns. A member of the Broncos trio of receivers known as "The Three Amigos." Warning, before watching this video, be prepared for the cheesiest thing you have ever seen. OLE!!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z15HGEuzXU0

Nattiel caught a Touchdown pass from John Elway in the first quarter of the Superbowl his rookie season. That lead didn't hold up as the Redskins proceeded to score 789 consecutive points to win.

My Dad, older brother, and I met Ricky Nattiel at a mall when we still lived in Denver. I still have the 3 Amigos poster autographed by him in my basement.

Nattiel never did live up to being a first round pick. Most teams expect to get more than 2000 career receiving yards out of a first round pick. He was fun to watch, though.

http://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/N/NattRi00.htm

Bobby Anderson

2008-04-23T12:09:00.003-04:00

Bobby Anderson was a number 1 draft choice by the Broncos in 1970. A running back from the U of Colorado, Anderson wore number 11 for Denver for 4 years. He never lived up to his first round draft choice status, with under 1300 yards and 9 TDs in his four years. He was a decent receiver out of the backfield with another 860 yards and 2 TDs. He did throw 1 TD in his career to former first rounder Riley Odoms. He also had a sweet haircut that made him look like John from C.H.i.P.s. He must have been quite the player in college, because he is a member of the College Football Hall of Fame.

http://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/A/AndeBo00.htm

Riley Odoms

2008-04-22T10:56:00.003-04:00

With the NFL Draft coming up this weekend, I've decided that this week's entries will represent Broncos #1 draft choices from years gone by.

Up first is Riley Odoms. A tight end out of the U of Houston, Riley was picked 5th overall in 1972. Without a doubt the second best tight end in franchise history, Riley was named to 4 Pro Bowls during his 12 year Bronco career. While I am not saying he should be in the Hall of Fame, he has better stats than Charlie Sanders, who was inducted in 2007. I am saying however that Charlie Sanders should not be in the Hall of Fame. Riley wore number 88 during his Broncos career. He certainly lived up to being a number 1 draft choice. Check out the guy trying to tackle him in the first picture. That is none other than current Colts coach Tony Dungy.

http://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/O/OdomRi00.htm

Steve Atwater

2008-04-21T07:34:00.002-04:00

Today is Steve Atwater. A first round draft choice in 1989, Steve wore number 27 as a safety for the Broncos for 11 seasons. He is the last player inducted into the Ring of Fame. Steve played in 8 Pro Bowls as a Bronco. Nicknamed "The Smiling Assassin" by former secondary coach Charlie Waters (I think), Atwater is famous for his hit on Chiefs running back Christian Okoye on Monday Night Football.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yScioc_dmXg

Steve Atwater concludes his brilliant 11-year NFL career as one of the most outstanding and most popular players in the history of the Denver Broncos organization. He joined the Broncos in 1989 as the club’s No. 1 draft choice (20th overall) and went on to earn eight Pro Bowl selections, second-most in team history. His string of seven straight Pro Bowl appearances from 1990-96 ties the franchise record. Atwater started all 155 games he played as a Bronco to tie for seventh in franchise history for games started, and logged 818 tackles (483 solo)—including five sacks (-39)—as well as 24 interceptions, 89 passes defensed, 12 forced fumbles and nine fumble recoveries. In all he was involved in 45 turnovers during his career. Atwater ranks eighth in career interceptions (24) and seventh in interception return yards (388). Atwater also played in 14 postseason contests (all starts), which ties for third most in team history, while his 14 postseason starts rank second. In his postseason career he made 73 tackles (50 solo), including one sack (-1), as well as one interception, 11 passes defensed and two forced fumbles. Atwater turned in one the best performances ever by a safety in a Super Bowl with his stellar play in Denver’s Super Bowl XXXII victory over Green Bay (1/25/98), posting six solo tackles, one sack, two passes defensed and a forced fumble. In addition to the eight Pro Bowls and two World Championships, Atwater will always be remembered for his signature hit on Kansas City running back Christian Okoye on Monday Night Football in 1990, the audio of which was captured by NFL Films and replayed numerous times over the years.
1999: Atwater played in 12 games and started 11 for the New York Jets, posting 55 tackles (36 solo), two passes defended and one forced fumble. He missed four games and was limited in several others because of a hamstring injury.
1998: Atwater started all three playoff games at free safety and ranked second on the team with 16 tackles (10 solo), to go along with three passes defensed and a forced fumble. His 14 career postseason starts rank second in franchise history, and he is tied for third in games played (14). In the AFC Divisional Playoff Game vs. Miami (1/9) he posted four tackles (3 solo) with one pass defensed, and he contributed five more (3 solo) in the AFC Championship Game vs. the Jets (1/17), to go along with a pass defensed and a forced fumble. Atwater knocked the ball loose from Alex Van Dyke early in the 4th qtr., leading to a recovery by Bill Romanowski. Atwater was Denver’s second-leading tackler in Super Bowl XXXIII vs. Atlanta (1/31) with seven (4 solo), as well as a pass defensed. Atwater — selected this season to his eighth Pro Bowl and third as as starter — started all 16 games at free safety and ranked fourth on the team with 85 tackles (55 solo), to go along with one interception and seven passes defensed. He posted his season-high of 9 tackles (5 solo) at Miami (12/21), and posted an 8-tackle performance at Seattle (10/11). His interception also came in the latter contest in the third quarter off Dan Marino. Atwater, selected by his teammates as the Broncos’ defensive captain for 1998, was also named the club’s 1997 Ed Block Courage Award recipient, also voted by his teammates.
RELATED CONTENT
An Honor Well Deserved
Broncos TV: Atwater inducted into the Ring of Fame
AUDIO: Pat Bowlen announces Atwater will be inducted to the Ring of Fame on Aug. 1, 2005
AUDIO: Atwater reacts to his Ring of Fame induction announcement, Aug. 1, 2005
Steve Atwater Photo Gallery
1997: Atwater, selected defensive captain by his teammates for the first time in his career, started 15 of the 16 games at free safety and tied for fourth on the team with 83 tackles (61 solo), including one sack (-18), as well as two interceptions, eight passes defensed and two fumble recoveries. His first interception came at San Diego (11/30) and was returned 22 yards for his first professional touchdown, and his next came in the season finale vs. San Diego (12/21) for a 20-yard return. In the regular season opener vs. Kansas City (8/31) he started at free safety and made eight tackles (6 solo), including a crucial stop of Chiefs fullback Kimble Anders at the Broncos 3-yard line late in the third quarter to help keep the Chiefs out of the end zone. The Broncos went on to win 19-3. Two weeks later vs. St. Louis (9/14) he made one solo tackle with two passes defensed, and suffered a partially dislocated right shoulder in the second half, missing considerable playing time. He was declared inactive on Sunday the following week against Cincinnati, breaking his string of 36 consecutive games played dating back to December of 1994. Atwater returned to action the next week at Atlanta (9/28). A week later vs. New England (10/6) Atwater posted six tackles (5 solo) and one fumble recovery in Denver’s Monday Night Football victory. The recovery came after John Mobley stripped the ball from Patriots receiver Terry Glenn to end a game-opening New England drive that had reached the Denver 28-yard line. The Broncos responded with their first touchdown of the game en route to a 34-13 win. At Buffalo (10/26) he made four tackles (2 solo) with one fumble recovery in Denver’s 23-20 overtime win on the weekend that would not end for the Broncos, overcoming a snowstorm in Denver that almost prevented the team’s departure, as well as a furious fourth-quarter rally by the Bills. Atwater’s fumble recovery came after Alex Van Pelt lost the ball with the Bills driving inside the Broncos 10-yard line early in the fourth quarter. He followed that performance with 8-, 7- and 10-tackle efforts against Seattle (11/2), Carolina (11/9) and at Kansas City (11/16). Versus Oakland (11/24), he posted four tackles (3 solo), including his first sack of the season, as Denver defeated the Raiders 31-3 on Monday Night Football, the Broncos’ fourth straight Monday Night win. He dropped Jeff George for an 18-yard loss on the Raiders’ first series of the fourth quarter. Atwater left the game for several plays in the first half because of a hyperextended right elbow, but returned and played the rest of the way. In the preseason Atwater missed the Buffalo (7/26) and Miami (8/4) games because of soreness in his left knee following offseason surgery. Postseason: Atwater started all four games at free safety and played with the brilliance that has distinguished him throughout his nine-year career. He recorded 15 tackles (10 solo), including one sack (-1), a forced fumble and five passes defensed. His four starts moved him into a tie for sixth in career postseason games started by a Bronco (11). He capped a stellar postseason in Super Bowl XXXII vs. Green Bay (1/25/98) by turning in a performance as spectacular as that of any Broncos defender, and any in his career, recording six solo tackles, two passes defensed and a sack of Green Bay quarterback Brett Favre on which he caused a fumble that was recovered by Neil Smith. The sack and fumble came early in the second quarter and set up a 51-yard Jason Elam field goal that gave Denver a 17-7 lead. He later recorded one of the game’s biggest pass breakups on a 3rd-and-8 play from the Broncos’ 39-yard line early in the fourth quarter, knocking away a Favre attempt intended for Robert Brooks that would have given Green Bay a first down inside the Broncos’ 25-yard line with the score tied at 24-24.
1996: Atwater started all 16 regular season games at free safety and earned his franchise-record seventh consecutive Pro Bowl berth while being named second-team Associated Press All-Pro, first-team UPI All-AFC and second-team Pro Football Weekly All-AFC. He ranked third on the team with 116 tackles (89 solo), in addition to three interceptions (11 yards in returns), nine passes defensed and one forced fumble. Atwater also added two tackles on special teams. Versus Tampa Bay (9/15), Atwater started at free safety and made seven tackles (6 solo), while also knocking down two passes in Denver’s 27-23 victory. The following week at Kansas City (9/22) he registered nine stops (7 solo), including several hard hits, one of which unfortunately ended Chiefs’ wide receiver Lake Dawson’s season prematurely with a knee injury in the third quarter. This was the second game of an eight-week stretch in which Atwater had at least six tackles in every game, registering eight at Cincinnati (9/29), seven vs. San Diego (10/6), eight vs. Baltimore (10/20), six against Kansas City (10/27), six at Oakland (11/4) and 12 against Chicago (11/10). He also forced a key fumble against the Bears in the third quarter that prevented Chicago from taking the lead. The next week at New England (11/17) Atwater had five tackles (2 solo), knocked down a pass and registered his first interception of the season (11-yard return). The pickoff came on the first play of the Patriots’ second possession and set up the score that put Denver ahead 14-0 en route to a 34-8 victory. A week later at Minnesota (11/24) he started at free safety and made a game- and season-high 15 tackles (13 solo) in Denver’s 21-17 win. He picked off his second pass of the season at Green Bay (12/8), and notched his third against the Raiders (12/15). In Denver’s AFC Divisional Playoff vs. Jacksonville (1/4/97) Atwater started at free safety and made six solo tackles. He had offseason surgery on his left shoulder and left knee Jan. 15, 1997.
1995: Atwater started all 16 games at free safety and led the team with 148 tackles (107 solo), three interceptions and three forced fumbles. His tackle total was his best since 1992, and his interceptions were his most since ‘91. Atwater surpassed the 1,000-tackle mark for his career Dec. 10 vs. Seattle. He earned his Broncos-record sixth-straight Pro Bowl berth, as well as second-team All-Pro honors from College & Pro Football Newsweekly, and was voted by his teammates as the Broncos’ Defensive MVP. Atwater began his outstanding season with a team-leading nine tackles (8 solo) in the opener against Buffalo (9/3), including a big third-quarter, fourth-down stop at the Denver 1/2-yard line to thwart a Buffalo scoring threat. The following week at Dallas (9/10), Atwater registered 13 tackles (7 solo), an interception with an 11-yard return, and a pass defensed. He recorded a team-leading 12 tackles (8 solo) at Seattle (10/1), but had to leave early with a hyperextended elbow. He posted a team-leading 11 tackles (9 solo) at New England (10/8), and forced his first fumble of the year. In Denver’s 27-0 shutout of Oakland (10/16), Atwater made six tackles (2 solo), intercepted a pass and registered one pass defensed. His interception of a Jeff Hostetler pass on the second play from scrimmage set up the Broncos at the Oakland 19-yard line after an 18-yard return, and led to a 3-0 Broncos lead. Atwater had 10 tackles (6 solo) and a forced fumble against Kansas City (10/22), despite missing the end of the first half and the beginning of the second half after going to the locker room for an examination on his right shoulder. Atwater also recorded a team-high 14 stops (9 solo) at Philadelphia (11/12), but suffered a bone bruise that was downgraded from an initial diagnosis of a hyperextension. His third interception came against Seattle (12/10), and was reutrned 25 yards.
1994: Atwater continued his stellar play in the Denver secondary despite a disappointing year for the team. He started 14 of the Broncos 16 games at either free or strong safety and recorded 125 total tackles (72 solo) to earn his fifth straight Pro Bowl appearance. Atwater, who sat out at Los Angeles (12/11) and San Francisco (12/17) with an injured hamstring, also intercepted one pass (24-yard return), recovered two fumbles and forced one while registering eight passes defensed. His two starts at free safety came on opening day against the Chargers (9/4) and at Buffalo (9/26). Atwater registered double-figures in tackles six times and posted his best numbers against the Raiders at home (9/18) with 14 tackles (11 solo). His lone interception came at Seattle (10/9) in perhaps his best overall performance. In addition to his interception that he returned 24 yards to set up Jason Elam for the Broncos’ first points, Atwater recovered a fumble and returned it 17 yards to set up Denver’s only touchdown in a 16-9 win.
1993: Atwater became the first player in franchise history to earn four consecutive Pro Bowl berths, and was named All-AFC (UPI and Football News). He started every game for the Broncos, leading the team in tackles with 141 (80 tackles and 61 assists). Atwater also posted one sack, two interceptions and two forced fumbles on the year. His big game came in a losing effort at San Diego (12/5), where he racked up 14 total tackles (nine solo and five assisted), which was one of six games in which he finished with double figure tackles.
1992: Atwater earned his third consecutive Pro Bowl berth in 1992, and was also named All-NFL (AP, NEA, PFW/PFWA, TSN,) and All-AFC (Football News). He led the secondary and was second on the team with 151 total tackles, (73 tackles and 78 assists), and also posted two interceptions, a sack, 12 passes defensed, two fumble recoveries, and two forced fumbles. Atwater sat out the season opener against the Raiders (9/6) with a sprained ankle but rebounded to post 17 total tackles in week two against the Chargers (9/13), one of nine games in which he recorded double figures in tackles. Atwater had a big game at Buffalo (12/12), recovering a fumble and intercepting a pass.
1991: In 1991 Atwater earned his second straight Pro Bowl berth after a season in which he tied for the team lead with a career-high five interceptions and finished second on Denver’s AFC-leading defense in total tackles with 150. Atwater was also named All-NFL (AP, Pro Football Weekly, College and Pro Football Newsweekly second-team) and All-AFC (Football News, Pro Football Weekly). For the season he registered 83 tackles, 67 assists, 11 passes defensed, a sack, a forced fumble, and a fumble recovery. Atwater was named the AFC Defensive Player of the Week for his performance against the Seahawks (9/15) in which he had 10 total tackles, picked off a pass, and recovered a fumble. He was in double figures in total tackles nine times that year, with a high of 14 vs. Phoenix (12/15). In post-season play Atwater had 17 total tackles and three passes defensed, and he intercepted a pass vs. Houston (1/4).
1990: Atwater made his first appearance in the Pro Bowl after a tremendous 1990 campaign in which he finished second on the Broncos’ defense with 173 total tackles, including a team-high 112 solo tackles, despite missing one game due to injury. For his efforts he was also named All-NFL (College and Pro Football Newsweekly 2nd team, Newspaper Editors Association – 2nd team) and All-AFC (UPI, Football News), and was voted by his teammates as Denver’s most valuable defensive player. In addition, Atwater also posted two interceptions, four passes defensed, two forced fumbles, and a quarterback sack, while also registering 10 total tackles on special teams. From his strong safety position Atwater posted five of Denver’s top-10 single-game tackle totals, including a personal high of 18 vs. Pittsburgh (10/14), and had 12 or more total tackles in nine games. He cemented his reputation as a hard hitter after a thunderous collision with Kansas City’s Christian Okoye in a nationally televised Monday night game (9/17). Atwater sat out the game vs. Seattle (9/23) with a rib strain and saw limited action against the Chargers (12/16) after suffering torn rib cartilage early in the first half.
1989: Atwater was named NFL All-Rookie (Pro Football Weekly, College and Pro Football Newsweekly) for a fine campaign. He made an immediate impact as the Broncos’ first-round pick, taking the place of former defensive captain Mike Harden at free safety and combining with strong safety Dennis Smith to form one of the NFL’s most physical safety tandems. Atwater started every regular season game and led the Broncos defense with 86 solos. He was second on the squad with 129 total tackles and also claimed three interceptions, 10 passes defensed and a fumble recovery. Atwater had two interceptions in Week Three against the Raiders (9/24), the second setting up the game-clinching field goal. He had six games with 10 or more total tackles, including a high of 12 vs. San Diego (10/8).COLLEGE: Atwater was a three-time All-Southwest Conference selection and two-time All-American at the University of Arkansas. He became the Razorbacks’ all-time interception leader with 14 over his four active campaigns. He went to the school as a wishbone quarterback but was moved to the secondary as a redshirt freshman. Atwater closed out his college career with an appearance in the Senior Bowl, a game in which he had two interceptions.

http://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/A/AtwaSt00.htm

Gary Zimmerman

2008-04-17T09:00:00.002-04:00

Gary Zimmerman was inducted into the Ring of Fame in 2003. An offensive tackle wearing #65 and protecting John Elway's blind side for 5 seasons, Gary was recently elected to the Pro Football Hall of Fame. He will be inducted in August, 2008. Gary was named to 7 Pro Bowls and was named to the All- Decade Team for both the 1980s and 1990s.

Gary Zimmerman was one of the most respected offensive linemen in the National Football League as he played through several excruciating injuries during his career and helped Denver win it's first Super Bowl in 1997. He played in and started all 184 games in his 12-year career and was a major reason that Denver’s offense was able to post prolific totals over the course of the 1995-96 seasons. He had a streak of 169 consecutive starts before being forced to the sideline at Green Bay (12/8/96) following surgery on his left shoulder. A consummate professional year in and year out, he was been named All-NFL four times (1986-88, 1996), NFL Lineman of the Year in 1987, and second-team All-NFL of the 1980s. The tackle was also named to the All-Decade Teams for the 1980s and 1990s. He is one of only 10 players in the history of the game to have been named to consecutive All-Decade Teams. Zimmerman was originally drafted by the Los Angeles Experss of the United States Football League (2nd round, 36th overall) in 1984, and played two seasons with the club before joining the Minnesota Vikings in 1986. He had been chosen by the New York Giants in the first round of the 1984 supplemental draft, third overall, and then had his rights traded to Minnesota for two second-round picks (CB Mark Collins and S Greg Lasker).
1997: Zimmerman missed the first two games of the season before re-signing with the club Sept. 9. He started at right tackle in the first four games after his return and switched to left tackle before the Oakland game (10/19). In Week 3 vs. St. Louis he started at right tackle and played most of the first half in his first game since re-signing. He also saw some action at left tackle after Tony Jones left the game with an ankle injury.
1997 Postseason: Zimmerman started all four postseason games at left tackle as part of an offensive line that dominated opponents and allowed Denver to control games with its powerful rushing attack. The Broncos averaged 187 yards per game on the ground in the playoffs, and the offensive line was named NFL Offensive Player of the Week for the Wild Card weekend.
1996: Zimmerman started all 14 games in which he played, including the first 13 of the season to run his streak of consecutive starts to 169. That streak was snapped at Green Bay (12/8) when he was declared inactive following surgery on his left shoulder. He played with pain in both shoulders during the course of the season, but was still voted to his seventh Pro Bowl (third as a Bronco) and earned first-team All-Pro honors from the Associated Press, Sports Illustrated, The Sporting News, Pro Football Weekly, Football Digest and College & Pro Football Newsweekly. Zimmerman also earned first-team All-AFC nods from UPI and Football News. His streak of 169 consecutive starts made him the only active player in the NFL to have started every game since the beginning of the 1986 season.
1995: Zimmerman started all 16 games at left tackle, earning his second straight Pro Bowl selection, and the sixth of his career. He suffered a shoulder and biceps injury at Houston (11/26), but started the next week against Jacksonville (12/3) despite not practicing much during the week. He also started with a sore ankle against Washington (9/17) in Denver’s 38-31 last-second victory. Zimmerman had off-season surgery to repair the torn rotator cuff and torn biceps in his right shoulder on January 15, 1996. The surgery was performed by Dr. Richard Hawkins at the Steadman-Hawkins Clinic in Vail, Colo.
1994: Zimmerman did not miss a game as the starter at left tackle, and was one of the few bright spots on an offensive line that struggled at times. He was recognized for his outstanding play with selection to the Pro Bowl, his fifth such selection.
1993: Zimmerman was acquired by the Broncos in a trade with Minnesota prior to the last preseason game in 1993 and was immediately inserted into the starting lineup. He started every game at left tackle for the Broncos, solidifying an offensive line that allowed time for quarterback John Elway to post career numbers. He was a major factor in the success of the Broncos offensive line, and was named an alternate for the Pro Bowl.
1992: Zimmerman was named to the Pro Bowl as a starter, his first trip since 1989.
1991: Zimmerman anchored a Minnesota line that helped the Vikings lead the NFC in rushing.
1990: Zimmerman started all 16 games despite being hampered by various injuries. He underwent surgery on his ankle and elbow at the end of that season.
1987-'89: In 1989 Zimmerman was selected to his third Pro Bowl appearance. The other two appearances were in 1988 and 1987.
1986: Zimmerman earned All-NFL honors for Minnesota in his first season in the league. He was originally obtained by the Giants in the first-round of the 1984 supplemental draft, third overall, and then had his rights traded to Minnesota for two second-round picks (CB Mark Collins and S Greg Lasker) in the 1986 draft.
1984-'85: He began his pro career as a second-round pick, 36th overall, by the Los Angeles Express of the USFL in 1984.

http://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/Z/ZimmGa00.htm

Karl Mecklenburg

2008-04-16T09:27:00.003-04:00

Also inducted into the Broncos Ring of Fame in 2001 was Karl Mecklenburg. Karl wore #77 for 12 years in Denver as a defensive lineman and mostly as a linebacker. He was voted to 6 Pro Bowls after being drafted in the 12th round out of the University of Minnesota. I met him at the Broncos parade after they won their first Super Bowl. If I can find the picture, I will post it.

Mecklenburg overcame long odds to achieve greatness after being drafted by the Broncos in the 12th round out of Minnesota in 1983— the 310th player chosen. He became a starter by his third season, 1985, and went on to start 141 of the 180 games he played, which places him seventh on the club’s all- time list for games played. Mecklenburg was voted to play in six Pro Bowls (following the 1985, ’86, ’87, ’89, ’91 and ’93 seasons); was named All- AFC and All- NFL four times (1985- 87 and ’89); was named AFC Player of the Year by Football News in 1986 and played in three Super Bowls as a Bronco: XXI, XXII and XXIV. He finished his career with 1,145 tackles (787 solo) and ranks second in club annals with 79.5 sacks, trailing only Simon Fletcher (97.5). Mecklenburg’s career high of 13 sacks came in 1985 and ties for the fifth most sacks recorded by a Broncos player in a single season. He recorded 11 multi- sack games and is the only player in franchise history to record four sacks in a game twice in his career. He shares the franchise single- game record with four other players. Mecklenburg began his collegiate career at Augustana (S. D.) College before transferring to Minnesota, where he earned second- team All- Big Ten honors as a senior in 1982.

http://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/M/MeckKa00.htm

Dennis Smith

2008-04-15T08:13:00.002-04:00

Inducted into the Ring of Fame in 2001 was hard hitting safety Dennis Smith. One of my favorite players, #49 was known for his hard hitting style.

A ferocious hitter, Smith was voted to play in six Pro Bowls (following the 1985- 86, 1989- 91 and ’93 seasons), was named All- NFL four times (1985- 86, ’89 and ’93), was named All- AFC four times (1984- 86, ’98) and played on three Broncos Super Bowl teams (XXI, XXII, XXIV). He was also named the club’s Most Inspirational Player in 1992. Smith ranks fourth all- time in games played by a Bronco (184), fifth in games started (170) and sixth in both career interceptions (30) and interception return yards (431). He is one of just three players in the history of the Broncos franchise to play at least 14 seasons with the club, behind John Elway (16) and tied with Tom Jackson. Smith’s career totals include 1,171 tackles (794) and 14 sacks. He posted a career- high five sacks in 1983, a career- high five interceptions in ’91 and a career- high 120 tackles in ’92. Smith was a consensus All- America choice as a senior at USC in 1980, where he lettered four times in football and three times in track. He posted 205 career tackles and 16 interceptions, and played in two Rose Bowls as a Trojan.

http://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/S/SmitDe01.htm

John Elway

2008-04-14T09:13:00.002-04:00

John Elway was inducted into the Ring of Fame in 1999. He is the only player that didn't have to wait 5 years after retiring to be named. The greatest player in team history. In my unbiased opinion, the greatest player in NFL history. Just ahead of Jim Brown. I will let the Broncos official bio of the man tell the story.

John Elway capped his brilliant career in 1998 by winning Most Valuable Player honors in Super Bowl XXXIII, leading the Denver Broncos to their second straight World Championship. He also posted the highest quarterback rating of his career in his final campaign, with a rating of 93.0. At the close of the 1998 season Elway ranked second among active NFL players for number of appearances with one team (234), trailing only the Oilers' Bruce Matthews (now 264), and retired having played in and started (231) more games in more seasons (16) than any player in Denver Broncos history. Elway, the NFL's all-time winningest starting quarterback (148-82-1; .643), was voted to a franchise-record nine Pro Bowl appearances (1986 season, '87, '89, '91, '93, '94, '96, '97 and '98), tied for the most ever by a quarterback (Marino, Moon), and as a starter six times ('87, '89, '93, '96, '97 and '98). He was the NFL's Most Valuable Player in 1987 and AFC Player of the Year in 1993, and was named AFC Offensive Player of the Week 15 times and AFC Offensive Player of the Month twice. Elway was named the Edge NFL Man of the Year for 1992, and was inducted in to the Colorado Sports Hall of Fame in 1999. He ranks second behind Miami's Dan Marino in most major NFL career passing categories, including passing yards (51,475), attempts (7,250), completions (4,123) and total offense (54,882). He also figures third in total touchdowns with 334 (300 passing/33 rushing/1 receiving); third in passing touchdowns with 300 (behind Marino and Fran Tarkenton) and leads all NFL quarterbacks in career rushing attempts (774), while figuring fourth in rushing yards (3,407). Elway is the only player in NFL history to pass for over 3,000 yards and rush for over 200 yards in the same season for seven straight years (1985-91). He generated 4,771 of the 5,806 points (82.2%) scored by the Broncos during his 16-year tenure with the club. Elway ranks No. 1 in NFL history in fourth-quarter, game-winning or game-saving drives with 47 (46-0-1 record), and had 36 career 300-yard passing games in the regular season, third among active quarterbacks at the time of his retirement (Marino, Warren Moon). He also caught three passes in regular season play for 61 yards, including a touchdown of 23 yards from Steve Sewell in 1986. In 1997 Elway broke his franchise record for consecutive passes without an interception, with the streak reaching 189 attempts. For his career, Elway had 19 games in which he completed 70% or more of his passes (min. 20 att.) and fashioned a 17-2 record in those games. He started 2,595 drives as a pro and was replaced just 10 times due to injury (.039%).
POSTSEASON: Elway played in a franchise-record 22 postseason games (including five Super Bowls), with 21 starts, and produced a 14-7 record (9-2 at home, 3-2 on the road and 2-3 at neutral sites). He is the only player ever to start in five Super Bowls, and has the NFL's all-time best record as a starting quarterback in Conference Championship Games, at 5-1. The others with four Super Bowl starts are Joe Montana, Terry Bradshaw, Roger Staubach and Jim Kelly. Elway owns or shares 18 Broncos' postseason records, including most passing yards, most touchdown passes and total offense (combined rushing and passing yards). He completed 355 of 651 passes (54.5%) for 4,964 yards, 27 touchdowns and 21 interceptions. He also rushed 94 times for 461 yards (4.9 avg.) and six touchdowns and caught one pass for 23 yards in postseason play. Elway ranks second in NFL postseason history in passing yardage (trailing only Montana-5,772), third in completions (Montana-460, Marino-385) and pass attempts (Montana-734, Marino-687) and fourth in passing touchdowns (Montana-45, Marino-32 and Bradshaw-30). In Super Bowl games Elway ranks No. 1 in pass attempts (152), No. 3 in completions (76), No. 2 in passing yards (1,128) and tied for second in rushing TDs (4) with Franco Harris and Thurman Thomas (Emmitt Smith has 5). Six of Elway's NFL-record 47 fourth-quarter, game-winning or game-saving drives came in the postseason.
VIDEO LINKS
Super Bowl XXXIII: 56K 300K
Elway on his high school and college career: 56K 300K
Elway on the 2-minute drill: 56K 300K
Elway on comeback wins: 56K 300K
1998: Elway was selected to his ninth Pro Bowl (tying Dan Marino and Warren Moon for most by a QB) -- his sixth as a starter and his third straight selection -- while being inducted in the Colorado Sports Hall of Fame with the Class of 1999 after a season in which he played in 13 of the 16 games (12 starts) and showed that he still ranked among the NFL's most dangerous signal-callers, completing 210 of 356 passes (59.0) for 2,806 yards and 22 touchdowns with 10 interceptions. He was sacked 18 times (-135) and his longest completion was a 58-yd. toss to Rod Smith in Week 14 vs. Kansas City, 12/6). Elway also rushed 37 times for 94 yards (2.5) with a long of 16 (at Miami, 12/21) and one touchdown (vs. Dal., 9/13/98), and caught a 14-yd. pass from Smith (vs. Oak., 11/22). Elway ranked second in the AFC (5th NFL) in passer rating (93.0), first in average gain per attempt (7.88; 4th NFL), while also figuring third in completion pct. (11th NFL), fourth in TD passes (9th NFL) and sixth (12th NFL) in passing yards. He was named AFC Offensive Player of the Week and Miller Lite NFL Player of the Week for his 400-yard passing performance Dec. 6 vs. Kansas City, marking the 15th time in his career he has earned the AFC honor chosen by the NFL. Elway started all three playoff games and completed 45 of 86 passes (52.3%) for 691 yards and three touchdowns with one interception and a long of 80 yds. (TD), and was awarded the Pete Rozelle Trophy as Most Valuable Player of Super Bowl XXXIII, the only player ever to win such honors in his final game. Elway's performance, which lifted Denver to its second straight title, was his best performance in a league-record five Super Bowl starts. Setting a record by being the oldest quarterback to start a Super Bowl (38 years, 7 mos.), Elway completed 18 of 29 passes (.621) for 336 yards -- the fourth-highest total in Super Bowl history (third at the time) -- and a touchdown with one interception, en route to becoming the first No. 7 in the championship game's history -- and the oldest player -- to be named MVP. Elway cemented the honor by rushing for a 3-yd. touchdown in the 4th qtr. to give Denver a 31-6 lead, and made Elway the oldest player in Super Bowl history to score a touchdown, adding a year onto the record he set with his rushing TD in Super Bowl XXXII. Elway's passing touchdown was perhaps the play of the game, however, as he found Rod Smith deep down the middle of the field in the 2nd qtr. for an 80-yd. scoring play to put Denver on top 17-3. It tied for the second-longest play from scrimmage in Super Bowl history, and was the longest by a Bronco in a Super Bowl.
1997: Elway enjoyed yet another stellar season, quarterbacking the Broncos to the first World Championship in franchise history with a 31-24 win over Green Bay in Super Bowl XXXII. He was voted to his eighth Pro Bowl (fifth as a starter), and was named to the All-AFC team by Pro Football Weekly and Football News, and was named second-team All-Pro by College and Pro Football Newsweekly. Elway was also the recipient of the NFL Players Association's Mackey Award as the top quarterback in the AFC. For the year he completed 280 of his 502 pass attempts (55.8%) for 3,635 yards, 27 touchdowns and 11 interceptions. The 27 passing touchdowns set a new franchise record, and his 28 total touchdowns (one rushing) were the second-most of his career (30 in 1996). Elway also had 50 carries for 218 yards rushing (4.4 avg.) on the season, posted a quarterback rating of 87.5 (4th-best in the AFC, 7th in the NFL), and was 10th in the AFC in completion percentage. His third-down passer rating of 87.7 ranked 3rd in the AFC (5th NFL), as did his 27 touchdown passes (4th NFL). Elway helped Denver lead the NFL in total offense (second straight season) and in scoring offense for the 1997 season. He was named AFC Offensive Player of the Week for Week 10 (Nov. 2) when he moved into second place all-time in passing yardage and eclipsed 50,000 yards in total offense for his career in a win over Seattle. Elway would later be named AFC Offensive Player of the Month for November (92-149, 61.7%, 1,231 yards, 8 TDs, 0 INT) as the Broncos went 4-1, marking his second such award ever (October 1996). Elway started all four postseason games and engineered the Denver offense on its four-game run to the World Championship, completing 56 of 96 passes (58.3) for 726 yards and three touchdowns, with two interceptions. He was sacked six times (-44) and carried the ball nine times for 25 yards (2.8) with a long of 10 yards and one touchdown.
1996: John Elway put together one of the finest seasons of his phenomenal 14-year career in, being voted to his seventh Pro Bowl (third as a starter); named second-team All-Pro by AP, College & Pro Football Newsweekly and Football Digest and first-team All-AFC by UPI, Pro Football Weekly and Football News; voted second in the AP NFL Most Valuable Player balloting; voted AFC Player of the Year by the Touchdown Club of Columbus; AFC Offensive Player of the Year by the Kansas City 101 Club; Mackey Award winner for highest quarterback rating in the AFC and AFC MVP by the NFL Players Association. He started 15 of the 16 regular season games and completed 287 of 466 pass attempts (61.6) for 3,328 yards and 26 touchdowns with 14 interceptions, and also rushed 50 times for 249 yards (5.0) with a long of 22 and four touchdowns. His 26 touchdowns tied a career high and franchise record set in 1995. Elway led the AFC in quarterback rating (89.2; 4th NFL), was second in completion percentage (61.6; 5th NFL), third in touchdown passes (26; 4th NFL) and fifth in passing yardage (3,328; 7th NFL), completions (287; 8th NFL) and attempts (466; 9th NFL). His start at Seattle (9/8) marked the 192nd game he has played in his career, most by any player in Broncos franchise history, surpassing Tom Jackson who played in 191 games from 1973-86. In Denver's AFC Divisional Playoff loss to Jacksonville (1/4/97), Elway started and completed 25 of 38 passes for 226 yards and two touchdowns with a long of 18. He also rushed five times for 30 yards with a long of 19.
1995: Elway started all 16 games, completing 316 of 542 passes (58.3%) for 3,970 yards, a then-career-best 26 touchdowns and 14 interceptions. He threw for more than 300 yards on five occasions, also a career best. It was the 10th time in his 13-year NFL career that he had topped the 3,000-yard mark, joining him with Dan Marino (11) as the only quarterbacks in NFL history to accomplish that feat 10 or more times. He also rushed 40 times for 179 yards (4.5) and one touchdown, with a long of 15. He led the AFC (tied for 5th NFL) in passing yards, finished third (8th NFL) in completions and was third (8th NFL) in pass attempts. Meanwhile, his fourth-quarter passer rating of 95.2 ranked third in the AFC and fifth in the NFL.
1994: John Elway earned his sixth AFC Pro Bowl berth, though he missed two of the final three games (at Los Angeles and vs. New Orleans) due to a strained left knee. He finished the season second in the AFC and fourth in the NFL in passer rating with an 85.7, and third in the AFC in passing yards (3,490), attempts (494) and completions (307), with a 2.0 interception percentage. His 62.1 completion percentage was second in the AFC and sixth overall. Elway went over the 3,000-yard passing mark for the ninth time in his career, second only to Dan Marino's 10, and went over the 40,000-yard career total-offense mark. He rushed for 235 yards (second on the team and his ninth 200-yard season), giving him a season total offense figure of 3,725 in the 14 games he played.
1993: Elway was named AFC Most Valuable Player (NFL Players Association), AFC Offensive Player of the Year (UPI, and the Kansas City 101 Club) and AFC Player of the Year (Football News) in 1993. Elway performed at an MVP-pace all year, earning all-AFC (UPI, Football News) and second-team All-NFL (AP, College and Pro Football Newsweekly, and Football Digest), and he was the starting quarterback in the 1994 Pro Bowl (fifth Pro Bowl berth) after a regular season that saw him lead the AFC in all six major quarterback stats categories. Elway's 1993 stats and rankings included a 92.8 rating (first in the AFC, third in the NFL), 551 attempts (first in the entire NFL), 348 completions (first in the entire NFL), a 63.2 completion percentage (first in the AFC and third in the NFL), 25 TD passes (first in the AFC and second in the NFL), 4,030 yards (first in the AFC). Elway's 1.8 interception avoidance percentage was fourth in the AFC, but stands as the best in Denver history for any quarterback with more than 75 single-season attempts. In 1993 he set new personal and Denver records for total yards offensively (4,183), completions (348), passing yards (4,030), TD passes (25), and completion percentage (that 63.2 mark tied the figure set by Norris Weese in 1978). The 1993 season was Elway's first 4,000-yard campaign and his eighth 3,000-yard season. He also rushed for 153 yards. Elway was named the AFC Offensive Player of the Week twice and was named by his teammates as Denver's offensive MVP.
1992: Elway completed 174 of 316 passes for 2,242 yards, with 10 touchdowns and 17 interceptions. He gained 94 yards and scored twice on 34 rushing attempts. He missed games 11 through 14 because of a bruised tendon in his right shoulder, suffered while running for a first down against the Giants (11/15). Elway earned two AFC Offensive Player of the Week honors for the year.
1991: Elway completed 242 of 351 passes for 3,253 yards, a total ranked sixth in the AFC and ninth in the NFL, as he was voted to his fourth career Pro Bowl berth. He threw 12 touchdown passes and tied a career low with just 12 interceptions. He had 36 pass completions of 20+ yards, nine of 40+, five of 50+, and four of 60+. Elway was third on the team with 258 yards rushing, and his six TDs led the team and set a new career single season high. He was bothered throughout the second half of the season by a shoulder problem that was corrected by arthroscopic surgery in the 1992 offseason. Elway started both of Denver's playoff contests, completing 30 of 54 passes (55.6%) for 378 yards and one touchdown with two interceptions. He also rushed 10 times for 49 yards (4.9). Elway completed 11 of 21 passes for 121 yards and an interception before leaving the AFC Championship Game in the fourth quarter with a thigh injury.
1990: Elway completed 294 of 502 passes in 1990 (a .586 completion percentage that stood as the highest over the first 10 years of his career) for 3,526 yards, 15 touchdowns, and 14 interceptions. He gained 258 yards on 50 rushing attempts and scored three touchdowns on the ground.
1989: Elway led Denver to its third AFC Championship in four years and earned his third career Pro Bowl invitation. He completed 223 of 416 passes for 3,051 yards, with 18 touchdowns and 18 interceptions, and he rushed for 244 yards on 48 carries, scoring three times. Elway started all three Denver playoff games, including Super Bowl XXIV vs. San Francisco, and completed 42 of 82 passes (51.2%) for 732 yards and four touchdowns with three interceptions, while also rushing for 91 yards on 16 carries (5.7) with a long of 32 and one touchdown.
1988: Elway threw for 3,309 yards and rushed for 234 yards despite being bothered for most of the season by several nagging injuries. He was voted by teammates as Denver's most valuable offensive player for the fourth straight year, sharing the award with running back Sammy Winder, following a campaign in which he completed 274 of 496 passes, with 17 touchdowns and 19 interceptions to earn his second straight Pro Bowl invitation.
1987: Elway was named the NFL's Most Valuable Player (AP) and the AFC's starting quarterback in the Pro Bowl after turning in a tremendous season in 1987, a year in which he became the first AFC signal-caller since Terry Bradshaw (1978-79) to lead his team to consecutive conference crowns. Elway was named All-NFL (The Sporting News, NEA, AP-second team) and All-AFC (UPI, Pro Football Weekly, The Football News), in addition to being tabbed as the AFC MVP (NFLPA), AFC Player of the Year (The Football News), AFC Offensive Player of the Year (UPI, Kansas City 101 Club), and Colorado Pro Athlete of the Year (Colorado Sports Hall of Fame), as well as earning his second Pro Bowl invitation. He was voted the Broncos' offensive MVP for a regular season performance in which he completed 224 of 410 passes for 3,198 yards, an average of 267 yards per game, with 19 TD passes. He led all AFC quarterbacks in rushing for the fourth straight season was second on the team with a career-high 304 yards, scoring four times. Elway started all three of Denver's playoff contests, including Super Bowl XXII vs. Washington, and completed 42 of 89 passes (47.2%) for 797 yards and six touchdowns with five interceptions, while also rushing 18 times for 76 yards (4.2) with a long of 21 and one touchdown. His 56-yard scoring strike to Ricky Nattiel on Denver's first play from scrimmage provided the earliest touchdown in Super Bowl history (elapsed time of 1:57).
1986: Elway led the Broncos to their first AFC Championship in nine seasons in 1986, while earning his first Pro Bowl berth. He was honored with the Seattle Gold Helmet Award (Professional Football Player of the Year) and received the King of the Hill award from the Colorado Sports Hall of Fame, in addition to being named honorable mention All-NFL (AP) and All-AFC (UPl-second team). Along with his 18 TD passes that year, Elway also scored on an 11-yard run and a 23-yard pass reception from Steve Sewell that is the longest TD catch by a full-time starting QB in NFL history. For the year he completed 280 of 504 passes (55.6%) for 3,485 yards and 19 touchdowns with 13 interceptions, while also rushing 52 times for 257 yards (4.9) with a long of 24 and one touchdown. In the postseason he added 805 more yards on 57 of 107 passing efficiency (53.3%), with three touchdowns and four interceptions, while rushing 15 times for 101 yards (6.7) with a long of 34 and two touchdowns. Elway directed one of the greatest drives in NFL postseason history in pacing Denver to a 23-20 overtime win over Cleveland for the AFC title. He completed 22 of 38 passes for 244 yards and a TD, that coming on a five-yard strike to Mark Jackson that capped a 15-play, 98-yard drive that tied the game at the end of regulation. In overtime Elway drove the team 60 yards in nine plays to the winning field goal.
1985: Elway took some spectacular steps forward in 1985, as he re-wrote the Denver record book. Elway set Broncos single season records for attempts (605, which led the NFL and fell just four passes short of the NFL record of 609 held by Dan Fouts), completions (327, second in the NFL), passing yards (3,891, second in the NFL), total rushing and passing plays (656, first in the NFL), and total offense (4,414, also first in the league).
1984: Elway led the Broncos to a 12-2 record in his 14 regular season starts in 1984. He completed 214 of 380 passes for 2,598 yards, with 18 TDs and 15 interceptions. Not only was his passing a factor in his leadership of the offense, but he finished third on the team in rushing with 237 yards.
1983: Elway started 10 games in 1983, including the first five before being replaced by Steve DeBerg, and five more after DeBerg was injured. While Elway did not have impressive stats as a rookie, finishing 17th among AFC passers, he carried a tremendous emotional burden, having come to the NFL as the most publicized college prospect since Joe Namath in 1965. Elway was the first player chosen in the 1983 draft and joined the Broncos by trade with Baltimore on May 2. The Broncos, in return, gave the Colts quarterback Mark Herrmann, the rights to OL Chris Hinton and a first-round pick in the 1984 Draft (G Ron Solt). He was also chosen by the Oakland Invaders in the 1983 USFL territorial draft

http://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/E/ElwaJo00.htm

Louis Wright

2008-04-11T07:33:00.003-04:00

Louis Wright wore #20 as a cornerback for the Broncos for 12 years. A five time Pro Bowler, he is right up there with Billy Thompson and Goose Gonsoulin as the best defensive back in team history (Champ Bailey may have something to say about that, but it's too early for him).

Wright enjoyed a stellar career at cornerback for Denver, playing in 166 games (163 starts, seventh on all-time Broncos list), reeling in 26 interceptions -- one of which he returned for a touchdown -- and 11 fumble recoveries. Wright was named to the Pro Bowl five times in his career (1977-79, '83 and '85). He was named All-NFL by The Sporting News and Pro Football Weekly and the NEA in 1977. He also received All-AFC honors from UPI in 1985. Wright also was named Most Valuable Defensive Player by his teammates on two different occasions. Wright played collegiately at San Jose State, where he lettered twice as a defensive back. He also won two letters in track and once ran the 100 in 9.6 seconds.

http://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/W/WrigLo00.htm

Tom Jackson

2008-04-10T11:03:00.003-04:00

Tom Jackson was inducted into the Ring of Fame in 1992. #57 played linebacker for the Broncos for 14 years; from 1973-1986. He is one of the most popular players in the team's history. Now he works for ESPN.

"TJ" was always one of the most popular players among his teammates, who voted him most inspirational player six consecutive seasons (1981-86). He finished his career having played the most games in Broncos history at 191 and still ranks second on that list behind John Elway. He is also tied for third in games started at 177. Jackson is one of only three Broncos to wear the Denver uniform for 14 seasons, joining Dennis Smith (14) and John Elway (16). He made three consecutive Pro Bowl appearances from 1977-79 and was named first team All-Pro twice (1977-78). He was also named by his teammates as Denver’s defensive MVP in 1974, '76, and '77. Upon his retirement in 1986, Jackson was tied for first with fellow Ring of Famer Randy Gradishar for the most interceptions in Broncos history by a linebacker with 20, and was fifth on the all-time sack list with 44. Jackson was also a standout performer at Louisville, where he was the Missouri Valley Conference Player of the Year twice -- as a sophomore in 1970 and as a senior in 1972.
Now: Jackson currently is a reporter for ESPN, and co-hosts the award-winning "NFL Countdown" and "NFL PrimeTime" shows every Sunday during the NFL season, as well as occasional appearances on "Monday Night Countdown."

http://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/J/JackTo01.htm

Randy Gradishar

2008-04-09T09:02:00.003-04:00

Inducted in 1989 was linebacker Randy Gradishar. #53 was the best linebacker in team history. He played 10 years with the Broncos, going to 7 Pro Bowls. It is a shame he is still not in the Hall of Fame. Gradishar averaged an unheard of 14 tackles a game for his career.

During his career, Gradishar was a seven-time Pro Bowler, the most by any Bronco at the end of his career, and he is also the all-time leader in tackles for Denver, finishing with 2,049. Gradishar never missed a game, playing in 145 in a row. He accounted for 33 turnovers in his career (20 INTs and 13 fumble recoveries) and was voted the Defensive Player of the Year in 1978 by AP, UPI, Pro Football Weekly and NEA (George Halas Award). His teammates also voted him team defensive MVP in 1978 and 1980. While at Ohio State, Gradishar was referred to by his head coach -- the legendary Woody Hayes -- as "the best linebacker I ever coached at Ohio State." Randy was a three-year starter for the Buckeyes and was named to every All-America team following his senior season, as well as being an Academic All-America selection, graduating with a degree in distributive education. Gradishar was also the president of the Denver Broncos Youth Foundation from 1982-92. He was inducted in 1998 into the College Football Hall of Fame.

http://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/G/GradRa00.htm

Haven Moses

2008-04-08T09:03:00.003-04:00

Wide Receiver Haven Moses was inducted into the Ring of Fame along with Craig Morton and Jim Turner in 1988. Wearing number 25, Moses played for the Broncos from 1972-1981 after coming to the team in a trade with the Buffalo Bills. He also had one of the sweetest afros in Broncos' history.

Moses played 10 seasons for the Broncos as one of the team's primary wide receivers, and ranks sixth all-time among Denver receivers with 302 catches. He ended his career with 5,450 receiving yards. His yards-per-catch average was 18.0, and he averaged over 19 yards a catch in three straight seasons from 1976-78. In the AFC Championship Game on New Year's Day, 1978, Moses caught five passes for 168 yards and two touchdowns. He was also a two-year letterman and an All-American as a wide receiver and defensive back at San Diego State University.

http://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/M/MoseHa00.htm

Craig Morton

2008-04-07T08:41:00.000-04:00

Craig Morton also joined the Ring of Fame in 1988. He also played for the Cowboys and the Giants in his career. He is remembered in Denver for leading the Broncos to their first Super Bowl appearance.

Morton, who came to the Broncos through a trade with the New York Giants in 1977, was Denver's starting quarterback for most of the period from 1977-82 and led the team to its first Super Bowl berth in 1977, as he engineered the Broncos to a 12-2 regular season record and home playoff wins over Pittsburgh and arch-rival Oakland. Morton, who also starred with the Dallas Cowboys in the early 1970s, earned a variety of awards for his on-field performance in 1977, including AFC Most Valuable Player honors. During his career with Denver, he led the team to two divisional titles (1977-78). He ranks second in franchise history in total plays from scrimmage (1,693), total offense (12,355), pass attempts (1,594), completions (907), passing yards (11,895) and touchdown passes (74). His average gain per play figure of 7.30 is tied for first with fellow Ring of Fame quarterback Charley Johnson. Morton also once completed 16 consecutive passes in a game and once had a streak of nine consecutive games with a touchdown pass. Morton was a consensus All-American at the University of California, and he was also a baseball star for the Golden Bears.

http://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/M/MortCr00.htm

Jim Turner

2008-04-04T07:54:00.000-04:00

Jim Turner was one of 3 inductees into the Ring of Fame in 1988. He is a kicker and wore number 15. He was on the Jets before becoming a Bronco. He won a Super Bowl against the Colts that was the famous Joe Namath guarantee game. He actually was a quarterback in college, so I will cut him some slack. He kicked for the Broncos from 1971-1979. From the Broncos website:
Jim Turner, a 1988 inductee into the Ring of Fame, ranks as one of the most prolific kickers of all time in professional football. At the time of his retirement, Turner ranked second in NFL career scoring with 1,439 points, as well as second in field goals with 304. Turner kicked 521 extra points and was the fourth player to ever reach the 500 mark. He never missed a game as a pro and finished with a streak of 228 consecutive appearances, including 130 as a Bronco, for whom he scored 742 points, easily establishing himself as Denver’s all-time scoring leader until Jason Elam eclipsed his mark in 1999. He once had a string of 221 consecutive extra points, which was then the second-longest streak in NFL history. Before joining the Broncos in 1971, Turner was an outstanding kicker for the New York Jets, helping lead the club to a victory in Super Bowl III.

http://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/T/TurnJi22.htm

Billy Thompson

2008-04-03T08:02:00.000-04:00

Billy Thompson joined the Ring of Fame in 1987. The defensive back played from 1969-1981. A 3rd round draft choice out of Maryland Eastern Shore, Billy wore number 36. He was also an accomplished returner. In fact, as a rookie, he became the only player in NFL history to lead the league in punt returns and kickoff returns in the same season. His bio from the Broncos website:

Billy Thompson, regarded by many as the best defensive back in Denver Broncos annals, was the only Ring of Fame inductee in 1987. He was the first player in team history to play 13 seasons with Denver, and he was the team captain for many years. Thompson, despite being retired for 18 seasons, still ranks second on the Broncos' all-time list for games started with 178, second in consecutive starts with 142, and sixth in games played with 179. He finished his career with 61 turnovers, (most in team history), 40 of which came via interceptions (third in team history). He holds two NFL records, one of which has stood for over two decades. As a rookie in 1969, Thompson became the only player in NFL history to lead the league in both kickoffs and punt returns in the same season. He is also one of only two players in NFL history to return four opponent fumbles for touchdowns. Thompson was a three-time Pro Bowl selection (1977, '78 and '81), and earned All-NFL honors twice (1977 and '78) and All-AFC honors four times (1977-79, '81). Billy also enjoyed a brilliant career at Maryland State (now Maryland-Eastern Shore), earning All-CIAA honors three times as a defensive back and being named team MVP as a senior. He also twice earned NAIA All-America honors. Thompson also made All-CIAA three times in baseball as a centerfielder.

http://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/T/ThomBi01.htm

Charley Johnson

2008-04-02T12:00:00.000-04:00

Charley Johnson joined the Ring of Fame in 1986 along with Paul Smith and Frank Tripucka. He was a quarterback who spent 4 years in Denver before retiring in 1976. He wore number 12. Like Tripucka, I don't think he did enough to merit going in the Ring of Fame; but Pat Bowlen didn't ask me, so what do you do. He had a couple of good years with the Broncos:

http://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/J/JohnCh02.htm

Johnson, who came to Denver in a trade with Houston, quarterbacked the Broncos to their first winning season (7-5-2 in 1973), a landmark moment in the first 14 years of franchise history. Johnson set a new Bronco record for passing accuracy (since broken) in 1974 by completing 55.6% of his passes. He made the All-AFC team picked by UPI and Pro Football Weekly after the 1973 season. He once threw 445 yards in a game and also threw a touchdown pass in 10 consecutive games, a Broncos record at the time. Johnson has a Ph.D. and resides in Las Cruces, New Mexico where he heads the Chemical Engineering department at his alma mater, New Mexico State University.

Paul Smith

2008-04-02T08:31:00.000-04:00

Paul Smith was a dominant defensive tackle for the Broncos from 1968 to 1978. He played collegiately at New Mexico and was a 9th round draft choice of the Broncos. He wore number 70. He passed away in 2000 after a bout with pancreatic cancer. He was inducted into the Broncos ring of fame in 1986. From the Broncos website:

Smith posted 55 sacks for his career, sixth-most on the Broncos' all-time list. He also posted 11 sacks in both the 1972 and 1973 seasons, propelling him to back-to-back Pro Bowl appearances. Smith was one of the leaders during the years when Denver was establishing its reputation for defensive excellence with the famed "Orange Crush." His head coach, John Ralston, once said that Smith was "the finest defensive tackle in pro football." Smith's 11-year career was the longest in Broncos annals until he was surpassed by fellow Ring of Famer Billy Thompson. He was the first 10-year man in Broncos history.

http://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/S/SmitPa01.htm?redir

Lionel Taylor

2008-04-01T10:58:00.000-04:00

Lionel Taylor is the final member of the first Ring of Fame class of 1984. An all pro receiver, he wore number 87. He attended New Mexico Highlands, which is in the same league as my alma mater: Fort Lewis College (Go Skyhawks!). He also lettered in basketball and track while in college. He played for the Broncos from their first season in 1960 until 1966. His resume is below:

He ranks No. 2 in franchise history in receiving with 543 receptions 6,872 yards, having held the franchise record in both categories until 1999 when he was eclipsed by Shannon Sharpe. He caught 92 passes during the 1960 season and followed that campaign with 100 receptions in 1961, leading the AFL in receiving for five of the league’s first six years of existence. His 100 receptions stood as a team record until 2000, when Ed McCaffrey caught 101 passes. Taylor was regarded by many as the possessor of the best hands in pro football. He never had fewer than 76 receptions in a season over those first six years, averaging 84.7 catches from 1960-65, at that time the highest six-year total in football history. Taylor was an All-AFL selection in 1960, ’61 and ’65 and played in the league all-star game in 1962.

http://www.databasefootball.com/players/playerpage.htm?ilkid=TAYLOLIO01

Goose Gonsoulin

2008-04-01T08:09:00.000-04:00

Another of the original 4 ring of famers; Austin "Goose" Gonsoulin was an outstanding defensive back for the Broncos since their inaugural season through the 1966 season.

From the Broncos official website:

Austin "Goose" Gonsoulin was one of the four original Ring of Fame inductees in 1984, recognized for his splendid play at safety for seven seasons. Gonsoulin was one of the original Broncos from the 1960 season. At the end of his Bronco career, he was the all-time American Football League leader in interceptions with 43. His 11 pickoffs in 1960 are still a Denver club record, and he shares the team record for interceptions in a game with four, a feat he accomplished Sept. 18, 1960 at Buffalo. Gonsoulin was an All-AFL choice in 1960, 1962 and 1963. His amazing durability and toughness enabled him to start 61 consecutive games at one point in his career. Gonsoulin was also the captain of his college team at Baylor. Goose was originally a 17th round selection of the San Fransico 49ers.

http://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/G/GonsAu00.htm?redir

Rich "Tombstone" Jackson

2008-03-31T07:18:00.001-04:00

Rich Jackson wore number 87 for the Broncos as a defensive end. Here is a brief synopsis from the Broncos website:

He was considered by many as the best defensive end in professional football during his prime. Jackson was the first Bronco to be named to the All-NFL first team in 1970. He posted his career high in quarterback sacks in 1969 with 11, and had 10 sacks in both 1968 and 1970. He was All-AFL from 1968-69 in addition to starting in the 1970 Pro Bowl. He made the Pro Bowl again in 1971 despite playing in only seven games due to a knee injury which eventually forced him out of football. Jackson finished his career with 34 sacks. He was a standout end at Southern University on both sides of the ball. He also lettered in track and was the NAIA shotput champion.

http://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/J/JackRi00.htm

Jackson, a defensive end whose nickname was "Tombstone", was famous for moves such as the "head slap" and the "halo spinner" which he used to subdue opposing offensive linemen. In the late Lyle Alzado's book "Mile High" he recalled Rich Jackson as the toughest man he'd ever met, and told the story of Jackson breaking the helmet of Green Bay Packer offensive tackle, Bill Hayhoe, with a headslap. Jackson's career was cut short by a severe knee injury. Despite the shortened career, Sports Illustrated's football expert, Dr. Z, Paul Zimmerman, said that Tombstone Jackson was perhaps the finest overall defensive end and pass rusher he ever saw, a surefire Hall of Famer if he would have had a longer playing career, in a bigger media market. As it was Jackson will be remembered as a great one, only by a handful of football insiders, including those who lined up with and against him.
Jackson wore number 87 with the Broncos and was part of the inaugural class of inductees into the Denver Broncos' "Ring of Fame". He was inducted in 1984 along with safety Goose Gonsoulin, running back Floyd Little, and wide receiver Lionel Taylor

Frank Tripucka

2008-03-28T11:48:00.000-04:00

Frank Tripucka was the first QB in Broncos history. Apparently that got him a free pass into the Ring of Fame. His number 18 is retired by the team. He went to Notre Dame and is the father of former Irish and Detroit Piston Kelly Tripucka. Here is the good stuff taken from another website:

Frank Tripucka—who was one of the four original Ring of Fame inductees in 1984—is also one of the original Broncos, having played for the team from 1960 to 1963. "Trip" led the Broncos to their first ever .500 season in 1962 (7-7). He was half of the Tripucka-to-Lionel Taylor passing combination, as the duo (both Ring of Famers) went on to set various marks together. Tripucka's best statistical season came in 1960 when he completed 248 of 478 passes (51.9%) for 3,038 yards and 24 touchdowns. His 477 yards passing against Buffalo (Sep. 15, 1962) still stands as the team record, and he shares the team record for most touchdown passes in a game with five (Oct. 28, 1962 vs. Buffalo). Tripucka also has the distinction of having thrown the first touchdown pass in the American Football League's history (to Al Carmichael on Sep. 9, 1960 at Boston). In addition to his status as a member of the Ring of Fame, Tripucka remains as only one of three players in Broncos' history to have his jersey number (18) retired. Frank is now a retired beer distributor and resides in New Jersey.
Here is a link to his stats: http://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/T/TripFr00.htm

He threw way more interceptions than touchdowns and according to the Hall of Fame, there have been 140 Quarterbacks in NFL history that have attempted 1500 passes. Frankie here ranks dead last in completion percentage.

Normally, I look at all things football through my orange & blue glasses, but I just don't see how the Broncos retired his number. Being a pioneer has to count for something, but he is given a lot of accolades for only 4 unimpressive seasons.

Floyd Little

2008-03-28T07:37:00.000-04:00

Today's player is Floyd Little. Nicknamed simply "The Franchise" heinspired scores of Denver fans to come out to see the Broncos play and forced ownership to stay put in Denver instead of relocating to another city. His number 44 is one of only 3 Broncos numbers retired. He was a first round draft choice out ofSyracuse. He was the first Bronco to lead the NFL in rushing, doing it twice. He played in 5 all star games. When he retired, he ranked 7th alltime on the NFL rushing list. A member of the Broncos Ring of Fame. His career statistics are below.

Games: 117

Rushing Attempts: 1641

Yards: 6323

Touchdowns: 43

Average: 3.9 yards

Receptions: 215

Yards: 2418

Touchdowns: 9

Total Yards From Scrimmage: 8741