Pat Bowlen
Inducted:
2019
Player Stats
Born:
February 18, 1944
Prairie du Chien, Wisconsin, U.S.
Died:
June 13, 2019
Englewood, Colorado, U.S.
Position:
Team owner
College:
Oklahoma
Pat Bowlen was the influential owner of the Denver Broncos, transforming the franchise into one of the NFL’s most successful teams during his tenure. He purchased the Broncos in 1984, and under his leadership, the team made seven Super Bowl appearances and won three championships (1997, 1998, and 2015).
Known for his commitment to excellence, Bowlen was instrumental in modernizing the team’s operations and facilities, and he played a key role in shaping the NFL’s media and business strategy through his service on several league committees.
His emphasis on culture, community involvement, and competitive success made the Broncos a model organization. Bowlen stepped away from day-to-day operations in 2014 due to Alzheimer’s disease and was posthumously inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2019.
His legacy is marked by a remarkable blend of business acumen, passion for the game, and unwavering dedication to the Denver Broncos and the NFL.
Bowlen's Awards and Honors
- 3× Super Bowl champion (XXXII, XXXIII, 50)
- ArenaBowl champion (XIX)
- 3× Steinfeld Cup champion (2014, 2016, 2018)
- 3× Leader Post Trophy champion (1962, 1963, 1964)
- Denver Broncos Ring of Fame
- Most Wins by an Owner in First 30 Years (NFL history)
- First Owner to Reach 300 Wins in 30 Seasons
- Denver Broncos Ring of Fame Inductee
NFL Teams
Denver Broncos (1984–2014)
Principal owner & chief executive officer
Denver Broncos (2014–2019)
Principal owner
Denver Outlaws (2006–2019)
Principal owner
Colorado Crush (2003–2008)
Minority owner
Career Record:
Super Bowl Appearances (As Owner)
7
Super Bowl Champion (As Owner)
3
Steinfeld Cup champion (As Owner)
03 Times
winning seasons in ownership
21
Total Wins under ownership
300+
Key NFL Committee Roles:
Broadcast Committee
Management Council Executive Committee
NFL Finance Committee