Established
1960
City
Denver
League History
1970 - Present / National Football League
1960 - 1969 / American Football League
Team History
1960 - Present / Denver Broncos
Nickname
Broncos - The Denver Broncos have been a part of the NFL since 1960, and their name has become synonymous with football excellence. But where did this iconic nickname come from? Let’s look at the origin story behind Denver Broncos history and one of the most beloved teams in professional sports.
In 1959, when it was announced that Denver would get an AFL (American Football League) expansion team, fans were asked to submit potential names for consideration. Among them were “Broncos,” which had already been used by local high schools and colleges to reference Colorado's western heritage and rugged outdoor lifestyle. This suggestion won out over others such as "Mustangs" or "Outlaws," but why?
Legend has it that Bob Howsam Jr., who owned minor league baseball's Denver Bears at Mile High Stadium, suggested “Broncos” because he thought it sounded tough—like his players! He also liked how similar its spelling was to Chicago Bears—a team he admired greatly due to their success in professional football during those days. Whatever his reasoning, Broncos stuck around until today as one of America's favorite sports nicknames!
Denver Broncos Origin
The rest is history: after joining forces with John Ralston in 1961, they went on to win two Super Bowl titles (1997 & 1998) under Mike Shanahan; made several playoff appearances throughout the John Elway era; reached four consecutive AFC Championship games between 2011-2014 under Peyton Manning; and currently stand atop NFL standings thanks primarily due their recent acquisition of quarterback Drew Lock just last year 2020 season.
With so much success both on-and-off field these past few decades, there should be no doubt why Broncos are now considered among top-tier franchises within National Football League - all thanks original selection back then 1959!
Championship
Super Bowl 3
2016, 1999, 1998
Stadium
2019 - Present / Empower Field at Mile High
2016 - 2019 / Broncos Stadium at Mile High
2011 - 2016 / Sports Authority Field at Mile High
2001 - 2010 / Invesco Field at Mile High
1960 - 2000 / Mile High Stadium
Owner
2022 - Present / Walton-Penner Family Group
1984 - 2022 / Pat Bowlen Trust
1981 - 1984 / Edgar Kaiser
1961 - 1981 / Gerald Phipps
1960 - 1961 / Bob Howsam
- 1960
- 1983
- 1996
- 1997
- 2001
- 2012
- 2015
-
Denver Broncos Team Formation
In the summer of 1959, Bob Howsam, owner of minor league baseball’s Denver Bears, had a problem. He’d expanded Bears Stadium to 34,000 after Denver was named a charter member of the Continental League, a proposed third major league. However, the league died when the established major leagues granted expansion franchises to two of its cities (New York and Houston) ... -
Trade for Elway
Quarterback John Elway arrived in 1983. Originally drafted by the Baltimore Colts as the first pick of the draft, Elway proclaimed that he would shun football in favor of baseball (he was drafted by the New York Yankees to play center field) unless he was traded to one of a selected list of other teams, which included Denver. During the ... -
Super Bowl XXXII Winner 1997
Super Bowl XXXII was an American football game between the National Football Conference (NFC) champion Green Bay Packers and the American Football Conference (AFC) champion Denver Broncos to decide the National Football League (NFL) champion for the 1997 season. The Broncos defeated the Packers by the score of 31–24. The game was played on January 25, 1998, at Qualcomm Stadium ... -
Super Bowl XXXIII Winner 1997
During the 1997 season, Elway and Davis helped guide the Broncos to their first Super Bowl victory, a 31–24 win over the defending champion Green Bay Packers in Super Bowl XXXII. Although Elway completed only 13 of 22 passes, throwing one interception and no touchdowns (he did, however, have a rushing touchdown), Davis rushed for 157 yards and a Super ... -
John Elway as Executive
Following the 2010 season, Joe Ellis was promoted from Chief Operating Officer to team president, while John Elway returned to the organization as the team’s Executive Vice President of Football Operations. -
Arrival of Peyton Manning
On March 20, 2012, the Broncos and quarterback Peyton Manning reached an agreement on a 5-year contract worth $96 million. The following day, the Broncos traded Tim Tebow and a seventh-round draft selection to the New York Jets in exchange for fourth- and sixth-round draft selections. Shortly after acquiring Manning, the Broncos also signed tight ends Joel Dreessen and Jacob ... -
Super Bowl 50 Winner 2015
Super Bowl 50 was an American football game to determine the champion of the National Football League (NFL) for the 2015 season. The American Football Conference (AFC) champion Denver Broncos defeated the National Football Conference (NFC) champion Carolina Panthers 24–10 to earn their third Super Bowl title. The Broncos took an early lead in Super Bowl 50 and never trailed. ...
To qualify as the greatest player for this team, the player must have played one season for this team. If not, we will remove the player.
* verifies that player has played for this team as an added player by a fan.
Denver Broncos History
The Denver Broncos, home to the NFL Greatest Player John Elway, are one of the most iconic teams in the NFL. Founded in 1960, they have a long and storied history that has seen them win three Super Bowls, six AFC Championships, and numerous division titles. The team is currently owned by Pat Bowlen, who purchased it from Edgar Kaiser Jr. for 78 million dollars in 1984.
In the early years of the Denver Broncos history, the team began as part of the AFL. Legendary coach Lou Saban and quarterback Frank Tripucka guided them before the AFL–NFL merger in 1970. Under John Ralston, the Broncos earned back-to-back division titles. However, national success arrived in 1977 when Red Miller took over. With Craig Morton at quarterback, Denver posted a 12–2 season and reached its first Super Bowl, though they fell to the Dallas Cowboys.
The next chapter of the Denver Broncos history began in 1981 when Dan Reeves became head coach and general manager. His leadership, combined with stars like John Elway, Gary Zimmerman, Steve Atwater, and Karl Mecklenburg, transformed the franchise. As a result, the team built strong momentum through the 1980s and 1990s. This run of success culminated in back-to-back Super Bowl wins in 1997 and 1998 under Mike Shanahan.
Denver Broncos Achievements
In more recent decades, the Denver Broncos NFL story continued with highs and challenges. Despite coaching changes, the 2000s featured consistent playoff appearances. Between 2003 and 2015, Denver made six postseason runs. Most importantly, they secured another championship in 2015 under Gary Kubiak, ending an 18-year drought. Today, the Denver Broncos history reflects more than six decades of resilience, championships, and a continued drive to remain one of the NFL’s premier franchises.
The Denver Broncos history is highlighted by three Super Bowl victories and multiple AFC Championships. In addition, legends like John Elway, Terrell Davis, and Peyton Manning defined different eras of success. The team’s dominance in the 1997 and 1998 seasons delivered back-to-back championships. Later, in 2015, the Broncos added another title under Manning’s leadership, proving the Denver Broncos NFL tradition remains strong.
Sports Fan Products
Riding High: The Storied Journey of the Denver Broncos
Riding High: The Storied Journey of the Denver Broncos" is a captivating chronicle of the Denver Broncos' illustrious history, from their humble beginnings in 1960 to their ascent as one of the NFL's most respected franchises. This thrilling visual journey takes you through the team's highs, including their Super Bowl victories and lows. It offers an intimate look at the legendary players, game-changing plays, and the relentless spirit that defines the Broncos. Whether you're a die-hard Broncos fan or a football enthusiast, this video provides an in-depth, behind-the-scenes look at the grit, determination, and triumphs that have shaped the Denver Broncos' legacy.
Denver Broncos Team History: Greatest Moments Revealed | Denver Broncos Highlights!
Let's explore the incredible history of the Denver Broncos, from their greatest victories to unforgettable highlights. Relive the iconic moments that shaped the Broncos' legacy and discover the stories behind their most thrilling games. Join us for a ride through the best highlights of this legendary NFL team!
John Elway Player History: A Football Legend!
Dive into the incredible career of John Elway, one of the most iconic quarterbacks in NFL history. From his early days as a rookie to leading the Denver Broncos to multiple Super Bowl victories, we cover the milestones, achievements, and unforgettable moments that defined his journey.
Mile High Legends: The Denver Broncos' Mount Rushmore
This captivating video explores the "Mount Rushmore of the Denver Broncos," highlighting the four legendary players who have left an indelible mark on the franchise's history. Featuring icons such as John Elway, Terrell Davis, Peyton Manning, and Von Miller, we delve into their remarkable careers, unforgettable moments, and impact on the team and its fans. Join us as we celebrate these football greats and discuss the criteria for their selection, sparking a conversation about who truly deserves a place on this prestigious pedestal in Broncos lore. Whether you're a die-hard fan or new to the team, this video offers a compelling look at the legends who shaped the Denver Broncos.
Retired Number
7 / John Elway
18 / Frank Tripucka
18 / Peyton Manning
44 / Floyd Little
*Blue is this team’s history
