50 Facts About Denver Broncos

Founding and Early Years

The Denver Broncos have a rich history that began over six decades ago. Let's dive into their origins and early milestones.

1. The Denver Broncos were founded on August 14, 1959, when minor league baseball owner Bob Howsam was awarded an AFL charter franchise. This marked the beginning of a storied journey in professional football.
2. The Broncos participated in the AFL’s first regular season game, beating the Boston Patriots 13-10 on September 9, 1960. This victory set the tone for the team's competitive spirit.
3. In their early years, financial woes forced the team to wear hand-me-down uniforms from an All-Star college game. These uniforms were later destroyed in an organized bonfire during the 1962 off-season, symbolizing a fresh start.
4. Gene Mingo, professional football's first African-American placekicker, played for the Broncos from 1960 to 1964, breaking barriers and setting records.
5. In 1967, the Broncos participated in a special exhibition game in North Platte, Nebraska, celebrating the Cornhusker State’s 100th anniversary against the Oakland Raiders. This game highlighted the team's growing popularity.

Challenges and Triumphs

The Broncos faced numerous challenges but also celebrated significant triumphs that shaped their legacy.

6. Number 18 was retired by the Broncos in 1963 to honor the club’s original quarterback, Frank Tripucka. However, it was un-retired in 2012 to accommodate Peyton Manning, a decision that paid off with a Super Bowl win.
7. In the late 1960s, the team's ownership considered moving the franchise to Alabama after Colorado taxpayers voted against a proposal for a stadium expansion. A grassroots campaign raised the necessary funds from private contributors to keep the team in Denver.
8. The Broncos are currently owned by the Walton-Penner group, with Rob Walton as the owner and Greg Penner as the CEO, ensuring strong leadership for the future.
9. The team is headquartered in Dove Valley, Colorado, and plays their regular season home games at Empower Field at Mile High, which they have been doing since 2001. Previously, they played at Mile High Stadium from 1960 to 2000.
10. The Denver Broncos have several nicknames, including "Orange Crush" and "Bronco Nation," reflecting their vibrant team colors and dedicated fan base.

Championship Glory

The Broncos have experienced the pinnacle of success in the NFL, winning multiple championships.

11. The Broncos have won three Super Bowl championships: Super Bowl XXXII, Super Bowl XXXIII, and Super Bowl 50. They have also won eight AFC Championships and have appeared in a total of five Super Bowls, losing five times.
12. Nine primary members of the Broncos are enshrined in the Pro Football Hall of Fame: John Elway, Floyd Little, Shannon Sharpe, Gary Zimmerman, Terrell Davis, Champ Bailey, Steve Atwater, Randy Gradishar, and Pat Bowlen.
13. John Elway’s come-from-behind victory in the 1986-'87 AFC championship game, known as "The Drive," is one of the greatest wins in franchise history. The Broncos beat the Cleveland Browns despite the Browns' fans trying to keep Denver’s players awake the night before by driving around the squad’s hotel and honking.
14. The Broncos suffered a gut-wrenching loss in Super Bowl XLVIII, with the Seattle Seahawks defeating them 43-8. However, Demaryius Thomas set a record for most Super Bowl receptions with 13 catches.
15. In 2023, the Broncos announced their all-time Top 100 Team, featuring 47 offensive players, 46 defensive players, and seven special-teams players. This team was selected through a fan vote and includes some of the greatest players in franchise history.

Milestones and Records

The Broncos have set numerous records and achieved significant milestones throughout their history.

16. The Broncos did not have a winning season until 1973, when they finished with a 7-5-2 record, marking a turning point for the franchise.
17. The Broncos qualified for their first playoffs in 1977 and advanced to Super Bowl XII that season, showcasing their growing prowess.
18. The Broncos made their first Super Bowl appearance in Super Bowl XII, where they lost to the Dallas Cowboys 27-10, but it was a significant achievement nonetheless.
19. The Broncos won their first Super Bowl in Super Bowl XXXII, defeating the Green Bay Packers 31-24, a momentous victory for the franchise.
20. Terrell Davis holds the franchise record for most career rushing yards with 7,607 yards from 1995 to 2001, solidifying his legacy as one of the greatest running backs in team history.

Legendary Players

The Broncos have been home to some of the most iconic players in NFL history.

21. John Elway holds the franchise record for most career passing yards with 51,475 yards from 1983 to 1998, making him a legendary figure in Denver.
22. Rod Smith holds the franchise record for most career receptions with 849 receptions from 1995 to 2006, showcasing his reliability and skill.
23. The attendance for the Broncos' first regular-season game was 18,372 against the Boston Patriots on September 9, 1960, indicating the early support for the team.
24. The first regular-season touchdown was scored by Al Carmichael on a 59-yard pass from Frank Tripucka against the Boston Patriots on September 9, 1960.
25. Don Stone became the first player to rush 100 yards in a game with 104 yards against the San Diego Chargers on October 6, 1963, setting an early benchmark for the team.

Memorable Moments

The Broncos' history is filled with unforgettable moments that have left a lasting impact.

26. Floyd Little became the first player to rush over 1,000 yards in a season with 1,133 yards in 1971, a significant milestone for the franchise.
27. Frank Tripucka became the first player to pass over 400 yards in a game with 447 yards against the Buffalo Bills on September 15, 1962, showcasing his passing prowess.
28. As of the start of the 2024 season, the Broncos have an all-time record of 508-465-10, reflecting their long-standing competitiveness.
29. The Broncos have retired three uniform numbers: John Elway (#7), Frank Tripucka (#18), and Floyd Little (#44), honoring their contributions to the team.
30. The Broncos won their first playoff game with a 34-21 victory over the Pittsburgh Steelers in the 1977 Divisional Playoff game on December 24, 1977, marking a significant achievement.

Defensive Dominance

The Broncos have also been known for their strong defensive play over the years.

31. The Broncos won their first AFC West Division Championship in 1977, establishing themselves as a dominant force in their division.
32. Elvis Dumervil holds the franchise record for most career sacks with 63.5 sacks from 2006 to 2012, highlighting his impact on the defense.
33. Jason Elam holds the franchise record for most career field goals with 352 field goals from 1993 to 2007, showcasing his reliability as a kicker.
34. John Lynch, a safety who played for the Broncos from 2004 to 2007, is known for his leadership and is often credited with helping the team win their Super Bowl 50 championship.
35. Peyton Manning, who played for the Broncos from 2012 to 2015, led the team to a Super Bowl 50 championship and holds the franchise record for most career passing yards in the postseason with 1,272 yards.

Modern Era and Fan Culture

The Broncos continue to thrive in the modern era, supported by a passionate fan base.

36. Demaryius Thomas holds the franchise record for most career receptions in the postseason with 32 receptions from 2010 to 2018, highlighting his clutch performances.
37. Von Miller, a linebacker who has played for the Broncos since 2011, is known for his pass-rushing skills and has been a key player in the team's success, including their Super Bowl 50 championship.
38. Chris Harris Jr., a cornerback who has played for the Broncos since 2011, is one of the longest-tenured players in franchise history and has been a key contributor to the team's defense.
39. Shannon Sharpe, a tight end who played for the Broncos from 1990 to 1999 and again from 2002 to 2003, is a three-time Super Bowl champion and a member of the Pro Football Hall of Fame.
40. Gary Zimmerman, an offensive tackle who played for the Broncos from 1993 to 1997, is a member of the Pro Football Hall of Fame and was a key player in the team's Super Bowl XXXIII championship.

Honoring the Legends

The Broncos have a tradition of honoring their legendary players and their contributions.

41. Terrell Davis holds the franchise record for most career rushing touchdowns with 60 touchdowns from 1995 to 2001, cementing his legacy as a prolific scorer.
42. John Elway, a quarterback who played for the Broncos from 1983 to 1998, is a two-time Super Bowl champion and a member of the Pro Football Hall of Fame. He also served as the team's executive vice president of football operations from 2011 to 2017.
43. Steve Atwater, a safety who played for the Broncos from 1989 to 1998, is a member of the Pro Football Hall of Fame and was a key player in the team's defense during their Super Bowl XXXII and XXXIII championships.
44. Champ Bailey, a cornerback who played for the Broncos from 2004 to 2013, is a member of the Pro Football Hall of Fame and holds the franchise record for most career interceptions with 34 interceptions.
45. Floyd Little, a running back who played for the Broncos from 1967 to 1975, is a member of the Pro Football Hall of Fame and holds the franchise record for most career rushing yards in a single season with 1,133 yards in 1971.

Celebrating the Fans

The Broncos' dedicated fan base, known as "Bronco Nation," has been a crucial part of the team's success.

46. Randy Gradishar, a linebacker who played for the Broncos from 1974 to 1983, is a member of the Pro Football Hall of Fame and was a key player in the team's defense during their Super Bowl XII appearance.
47. Brian Dawkins, a safety who played for the Broncos from 2009 to 2011, is a member of the Pro Football Hall of Fame and was a key player in the team's defense during their playoff appearances.
48. Jake Plummer, a quarterback who played for the Broncos from 2003 to 2006, led the team to two consecutive 10-6 seasons and earned Wild Card playoff berths both years.
49. Tim “The Barrel Man” McKernan attended every single home game between 1977 and 2007, wearing nothing but boots, suspenders, a cowboy hat, and an orange barrel, becoming a beloved figure among fans.
50. The Broncos have a dedicated fan base known as "Bronco Nation," which includes super-fans like Tim “The Barrel Man” McKernan and others who have shown unwavering support for the team over the years.

Broncos' Legacy in the NFL

The Denver Broncos have carved out a remarkable legacy in the NFL. From their early days in the AFL to becoming a powerhouse, their journey is filled with memorable moments. With three Super Bowl championships, iconic players like John Elway and Peyton Manning, and a dedicated fan base known as Bronco Nation, the team has left an indelible mark on football history. Their resilience through financial struggles, historic games, and record-setting performances showcases their enduring spirit. The Broncos' commitment to excellence and their passionate supporters ensure that their legacy will continue to inspire future generations. Whether it's the legendary "Orange Crush" defense or the unforgettable "Mile High Miracle," the Denver Broncos remain a symbol of perseverance and success in the world of American football.