The Denver Broncos began play in 1960 as part of the American Football League and merged with that league into the NFL in 1970. Since the merger, the Broncos have competed in the AFC West, winning the division 15 times.
Denver has reached the playoffs 22 times and the Super Bowl eight times. The Broncos have won three Super Bowls in their history, most recently following the 2015 season.
Denver has seven representatives in the Pro Football Hall of Fame, but that number will likely grow in the coming years with some of the players on this top 100 list.
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100. QB Jay Cutler (2006-2008)
When Josh McDaniels arrived in Denver in 2009, Cutler was a young, promising quarterback who had made the Pro Bowl the previous season. Unfortunately, McDaniels tried to trade for Matt Cassel, which upset Cutler and led to him requesting a trade. Cutler was well on his way to becoming the Broncos’ franchise QB before McDaniels traded him to the Bears.
99. CB Willie Brown (1963-1966)
Brown is commonly remembered as a Raider but he began his career in Denver and earned a first-team All-AFL nod (1964) and two invitations to the AFL All-Star Game (1964, 1965) during his time with the Broncos. A member of the Pro Football Hall of Fame, Brown totaled 54 interceptions during his career.
98. QB Marlin Briscoe (1968)
Briscoe only spent one season in Denver, but it was a historic one. He became the first black starting quarterback in pro football history and threw 14 touchdown passes, which remains a Broncos rookie record. It’s unfortunate that Briscoe did not last longer in Denver, but he is a key part of the team’s history and he was a pioneer in the NFL.
97. QB Tim Tebow (2010-2011)
Tebow wasn’t a polished passer but he led some exciting game-winning drives during his time in Denver, including a 29-23 win over the Steelers in the wild-card round of the 2011 playoffs. Tebow lost to the Patriots the next week (and was traded to the Jets that offseason after the team signed Peyton Manning) but his memorable on-field heorics and off-field contributions in the community earned him a spot on this list.
96. P Tom Rouen (1993-2002)
Rouen totaled 28,146 punting yards during his time with the Broncos, a franchise record that still stands today. He averaged 43.9 yards per punt, earned an All-Pro nod (1994) and won two Super Bowls (XXXII, XXXIII) during his time in Denver. He was named to the Broncos’ 50th Anniversary Team in 2009.
95. TE Julius Thomas (2011-2014)
Thomas battled numerous injuries during his time with the Broncos, but when he was healthy, he was one of the best receiving tight ends in team history. He hauled in 24 touchdown receptions from 2013-2014, earning Pro Bowl nods after each of those seasons. Thomas was a key member of Denver’s record-breaking offense in 2013 that reached Super Bowl XLVIII.
94. WR Eddie Royal (2008-2011)
Royal was an explosive punt returner and a dynamic wide receiver in Mike Shanahan’s system. He had a breakout rookie year, hauling in 91 receptions for 980 yards and five touchdowns in 2008. Royal wasn’t able to find the same kind of success on offense under McDaniels but he finished his time in Denver ranked in the top six for punt return yards (967) and in the top nine for kick return yards (1,375) in franchise history.
93. WR Brandon Marshall (2006-2009)
Marshall was an explosive wide receiver for the Broncos before McDaniels arrived, which is an unfortunate trend for several players on this list. He did earn a Pro Bowl nod after McDaniels’ first season in Denver but the coach then traded the star receiver to the Dolphins the following offseason. Marshall was on his way to becoming one of the best WRs in team history before the trade.
92. S Brian Dawkins (2009-2011)
Dawkins only spent three seasons in Denver but he was by far one of the team’s best defenders during that time, earning two Pro Bowl nods (2009, 2011). During his three years with the Broncos, Dawkins totaled 233 tackles, five sacks, three interceptions and four forced fumbles. He was enshrined in the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2018.
91. WR Eric Decker (2010-2013)
Decker certainly benefited from playing in Denver during the Peyton Manning era, but we can’t knock him for being teammates with an all-time great. He hauled in 172 receptions for 2,352 yards and 24 touchdowns from 2012-2013, which is great production from a No. 2 wide receiver. Decker retired from the NFL in 2018.
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90. RB Clinton Portis (2002-2003)
Portis would undoubtedly be ranked higher on this list if he had spent more than two seasons with the Broncos. He rushed for 3,099 yards and 29 touchdowns from 2002-2003 before being sent to the Redskins in a blockbuster trade that sent cornerback Champ Bailey to Denver.
89. S T.J. Ward (2014-2016)
Ward was a key member of the team’s Super Bowl-winning defense in 2015 and earned a Pro Bowl nod in 2014. During his time with the Broncos, Ward racked up 222 tackles, five sacks and three interceptions. He also forced five fumbles while playing in Denver.
88. S John Lynch (2004-2007)
Lynch has a Hall of Fame resume, but that’s mostly thanks to winning Super Bowl XXXVII with the Buccaneers. He did reach the Pro Bowl all four years he played in Denver, though, and he is a member of the Broncos’ Ring of Fame. Lynch now serves as 49ers general manager.
87. DL Shane Dronett (1992-1995)
The NFL was not tracking tackles when Dronett entered the league, but we do know that he recorded 21.5 sacks during his four years with the Broncos. That’s a pretty respectable total for an interior defensive lineman. He went on to total 44 sacks during his 11-year career.
86. RB Gerald Willhite (1982–1988)
Willhite was selected by Denver in the first round of the 1982 NFL draft and went on to play seven seasons with the Broncos. He helped Denver reach the Super Bowl in the 1987 season, and his 1,688 rushing yards rank 14th among running backs in the team’s history. His 17 rushing touchdowns rank ninth.
85. K Matt Prater (2007-2014)
Prater has a rocket leg and he set an NFL record in 2013 when he converted a 64-yard field attempt against the Titans. Unsurprisingly, he was voted to the Pro Bowl that season. Prater ranks third Broncos history in points (682) but lost his job to Brandon McManus in 2014. After being cut by Denver, Prater signed with the Lions. He’s still the starter in Detroit.
84. QB Charley Johnson (1972-1975)
Johnson threw for 24,410 yards and 170 touchdowns during his career — those don’t sound like big numbers today, but they were notable during his era of football. A member of the Texas Sports Hall of Fame, Johnson already had a Pro Bowl (1963) under his belt when he arrived in Denver and he was a star QB of his time. In his second season with the Broncos (1973), he ranked third in the NFL in passing yards (2,465) and fourth in passing touchdowns (20).
83. K Rich Karlis (1982–1988)
They don’t make kickers like they used to! Karlis kicked barefoot, and his game-winning field goal in the 1986 AFC championship game sent the Broncos to Super Bowl XXI. He then tied a Super Bowl record by converting a 48-yard field goal in a loss to the Giants. Karlis ranks fourth on the team’s all-time scoring list with 655 points.
82. LB D.J. Williams (2004–2012)
A tackling machine, Williams was selected by the Broncos in the first round of the 2004 NFL draft. He went on to spend the first nine years of his career in Denver and led the AFC with 141 tackles in 2007. He was a playmaking linebacker, finishing his career with 22.5 sacks, 37 pass breakups, two interceptions and 14 forced fumbles.
81. OG Chris Kuper (2006-2013)
Kuper spent his entire career in Denver, and he probably would have had a longer career if not for a gruesome ankle injury that cut his season short in 2011. He went on to play two more years with the Broncos but wasn’t the same player and ended up retiring in 2014. Kuper now serves as Denver’s assistant offensive line coach.
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80. LB Jim Ryan (1979-1988)
Ryan spent his entire 10-year career in Denver and helped the Broncos reach two Super Bowls during that time. The NFL did not track tackles during his career and did not start tracking sacks until his fourth year in the league. From 1982-1988, Ryan totaled 10 sacks. After retiring, Ryan served as head coach at Regis Jesuit High School from 2002-2004 before joining Denver’s coaching staff for five seasons.
79. WR Ricky Nattiel (1987-1992)
A member of the team’s famous “Three Amigos,” Nattiel helped the Broncos reach two Super Bowls during his career and he caught a 56-yard touchdown pass in Super Bowl XXII (Denver lost both games). Nattiel played before the NFL’s pass-happy era and he only ranks 24th on the team’s all-time receiving list but he was a key part of the Broncos’ offense in the late 1980s and early ’90s.
78. RB Bobby Humphrey (1989–1991)
Humphrey only spent three years in Denver but they were certainly memorable — and productive — seasons. He rushed for 2,353 yards and 14 touchdowns in his first two seasons with the team and earned a Pro Bowl nod in 1990. Despite only playing for a short time with the Broncos, he ranks 10th among running backs on the team’s all-time rushing list (2,386 yards).
77. WR Mark Jackson (1986-1992)
Jackson, another member of the “Three Amigos,” played in three Super Bowls. One of his career highlights was catching the game-tying touchdown pass during “The Drive” that sent the Broncos to overtime against the Browns in the 1987 AFC championship game. His 4,746 receiving yards rank 11th in franchise history.
76. WR Vance Johnson (1985-1993)
The third member of the “Three Amigos,” Johnson also played in three Super Bowls; he had five receptions for 121 yards and a touchdown in Super Bowl XXI. He ranks eighth among the team’s all-time leaders in receiving yards (5,695 yards) and receiving touchdowns (37).
75. TE/OL Dwayne Carswell (1994-2006)
Carswell spent most of his career as Shannon Sharpe’s backup but was a key part of Denver’s offense. He earned a Pro Bowl nod in 2001 and helped the Broncos win two Super Bowls (XXXII, XXXIII). Carswell was used primarily as a blocking tight end, and he was so good at blocking that the team moved him to guard in 2005. He finished his 12-year career with 15 touchdown receptions.
74. DE Derek Wolfe (2012–present)
Wolfe has consistently been one of the best defensive linemen in Denver since the team selected him in the second round of the 2012 NFL draft. He was a key member of the team that won Super Bowl 50, and his 26 sacks rank sixth among defensive linemen in franchise history.
73. DL Rubin Carter (1975–1986)
Carter spent his entire 12-year career in Denver and helped the team reach two Super Bowls. After retiring, he became the Broncos’ defensive line coach and helped the team’s defense lead Denver to another Super Bowl. He has been coaching football since 1987 and currently serves as Purdue’s defensive line coach.
72. LB Ian Gold (2000-2003, 2005-2007)
Gold spent two different stints in Denver and was one of the team’s best defenders each time. He earned a Pro Bowl nod in 2001 and finished his eight-year career with 491 tackles, 17 sacks and four interceptions. Gold’s best season came in 2002, when he racked up 100 tackles and 6.5 sacks.
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71. DE Barney Chavous (1973–1985)
Chavous was selected by the Broncos in the second round of the 1973 NFL draft and he went on to spend his entire 13-year career in Denver. The league did not officially begin tracking sacks until Chavous’ final four years of his career. In those four seasons, an aging Chavous racked up 23 sacks.
70. RB Steve Sewell (1985–1991)
Like many of the other players on this list, Sewell was a first-round draft pick that spent his entire career in Denver. Though he was listed as a running back, Sewell only rushed for 917 yards and 13 touchdowns in his career. He was used primiarly as a receiver out of the backfield, hauling in 187 receptions for 2,354 yards and 13 touchdowns. Sewell helped the Broncos reach three Super Bowls.
69. NT Greg Kragen (1985–1993)
Kragen spent the first nine years of his 13-year career in Denver and racked up 22.5 sacks, which was an impressive total for an interior defensive lineman in that era. He made the Pro Bowl in 1989 and earned All-Pro honors three times during his career. He helped the Broncos reach three Super Bowls before leaving in 1993 to play for the Chiefs.
68. LB Bill Romanowski (1996–2001)
Romanowski was a phenomenal player, but his career was marred by allegations of racism and admitted use of steroids. He won four Super Bowls during his career, including two with Denver. The two-time Pro Bowler unofficially racked up over 1,000 tackles and recorded 39.5 sacks during his 16-year career.
67. OL Matt Lepsis (1997–2007)
Lepsis was overlooked by the national media and many NFL fans during his career, and he was never voted to a Pro Bowl. He was a 10-year starter in Denver, though, and helped the team win Super Bowl XXXIII. Lepsis deserves more recognition for his longevity and steady play.
66. LB Keith Burns (1994–1998, 2000–2003, 2005–2006)
Burns had three different stints in Denver as a player and then started his coaching career with the Broncos after retirement. He was used primarily on special teams and was arguably one of the best special teams players in franchise history. He helped Denver win back-to-back Super Bowls in the late 1990s and now serves as the Chargers’ assistant special teams coach.
65. WR Emmanuel Sanders (2014-present)
Sanders signed with the Broncos in 2014 and quickly emerged as part of a dynamic duo with Demaryius Thomas. He has earned two Pro Bowl nods in five seasons in Denver and was a key member of the team that won Super Bowl 50. He ranks 10th on the team’s all-time receiving yards list (4,994).
64. OG Paul Howard (1973–1986)
A third-round pick in the 1973 NFL draft, Howard went on to play 13 seasons with the Broncos. He was a reliable guard, starting every game in nine of his 13 seasons and he only missed one game in 1986 and two games in 1980. Howard helped Denver reach two Super Bowls during his career.
63. K Jim Turner (1971-1979)
Turner earned two Pro Bowl nods (1968, 1969) and won Super Bowl III with the Jets before going on to spend the final nine years of his career in Denver. He retired in 1980 after scoring 1,439 points during a 16-year career. Turner ranks second on the Broncos’ all-time scoring list (742) and is a member of the team’s Ring of Fame.
62. DL Maa Tanuvasa (1995–2000)
Tanuvasa spent six of his eight years in the NFL playing for the Broncos, totaling 34 sacks in his career. He was a key member of a Denver team that won back-to-back Super Bowls in the 1990s, and he ranks fourth among defensive lineman on the team’s all-time sack list (33).
61. OT Dave Studdard (1979-1988)
Studdard was drafted by the Colts in 1978 but didn’t make his NFL debut until joining the Broncos in 1979. He went on to help Denver reach two Super Bowls, playing in all 16 games in six of his first seven seasons with the Broncos. He now owns a resturant, Studdley’s, in Centennial, Colorado.
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60. LB John Mobley (1996–2003)
After being selected by the Broncos in the first round of the 1996 NFL draft, Mobley went on to spend his entire eight-year career in Denver. He earned a Pro Bowl nod in 1997 and helped the Broncos win back-to-back Super Bowls while totaling 634 tackles, 10.5 sacks and five interceptions.
59. TE Clarence Kay (1984-1992)
After being selected by the Broncos in the seventh round of the 1984 NFL draft, Kay went on to spend his entire nine-year career in Denver. He hauled in 193 receptions for 2,136 yards during his career, the third-best totals among tight ends in franchise history. He was part of a Broncos offense that reached three Super Bowls during a four-year stretch in the 1980s.
58. LB Glenn Cadrez (1995-2000)
Cadrez was just a rotational linebacker when the Broncos played in Super Bowl XXXII but he was a starter for Super Bowl XXXIII (Denver won both games). The NFL did not track tackles during his career, but he is credited with totaling 14.5 sacks and three interceptions during his 11-year career.
57. CB Ray Crockett (1994–2000)
Crockett was a playmaking cornerback, totaling 36 interceptions, 15.5 sacks and scoring five touchdowns during his 14-year career. He won back-to-back Super Bowls with the Broncos and earned an All-Pro nod while playing for the Lions in 1991. He is a member of the 50th Anniversary Teams for both the Lions and the Broncos.
56. OT Tony Jones (1997-2000)
Jones helped the Broncos win two Super Bowls (XXXII, XXXIII) and was voted to the Pro Bowl following the 1998 season. He was a reliable offensive tackle during his time in the NFL, starting 16 games in all but two seasons from 1990-2000.
55. QB Jake Plummer (2003–2006)
Before Peyton Manning arrived in Denver and rewrote the NFL record books, Plummer owned the best winning percentage among quarterbacks in franchise history (.722). He helped the Broncos reach the AFC championship game in 2005 and earned a Pro Bowl nod that same season. Plummer ranks fifth in passing yards on the team’s all-time list (11,631) and is tied for third in touchdown passes (71).
54. DB Mike Harden (1980-1988)
Harden spent the first nine seasons of his 11-year career in Denver and was a ball-hawking defensive back. His 33 interceptions rank sixth on the team’s all-time list, one spot below Champ Bailey and two spots above Louis Wright. Harden helped the Broncos reach two Super Bowls in the 1980s, but Denver lost both games.
53. OT Ken Lanier (1981-1992, 1994)
Lanier spent 13 of his 14 seasons in the NFL playing for the Broncos and was a key member of an offensive line that reached three Super Bowls in the late 1980s. He was a reliable player from 1983-1992, playing in all 16 games in nine of 10 seasons during that stretch.
52. S Tyrone Braxton (1987–1993, 1995–1999)
Overshadowed by legends like Steve Atwater and Dennis Smith, Braxton is sometimes forgotten by Broncos fans as one of the top defensive backs in team history. Braxton earned a Pro Bowl nod following the 1996 season and helped the Broncos win back-to-back Super Bowls in 1997 and 1998. His 34 interceptions are tied with Champ Bailey for the fourth-most in franchise history.
51. LB Bob Swenson (1975–1979, 1981–1983)
A member of the team’s famous “Orange Crush” defense, Swenson earned a Pro Bowl nod in 1981 and helped the team reach Super Bowl XII following the 1977 season. He totaled 11 interceptions during his career, which is tied for the third-most among linebackers in franchise history.
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50. RB/FB Mike Anderson (2000–2005)
After high school, Anderson spent four years in the United States Marine Corps and two years playing junior college football before joining the Broncos in 2000. He quickly emerged as a dynamic player, earning Rookie of the Year honors after rushing for 1,487 yards and 15 touchdowns as a rookie. He then spent time at fullback before moving back to running back and rushing for 1,014 yards and 12 touchdowns in 2004. He ranks fifth in franchise history in rushing yards (3,822) and fourth in rushing touchdowns (37).
49. C Billy Bryan (1977-1988)
Bryan anchored the Broncos’ offensive line for 11 seasons and started in three Super Bowls. Had the Broncos performed better and won those Super Bowls — Denver lost all of them — Bryan would be part of a long list of Denver players that would be more commonly remembered today.
48. OG Keith Bishop (1980–1989)
One of the best guards in franchise history, Bishop earned two Pro Bowl selections and helped Denver reach three Super Bowls during a four-year span in the late 1980s. He started each season in Denver during his nine-year career and is a member of the Broncos’ 50th Anniversary Team.
47. OLB DeMarcus Ware (2014–2016)
Ware spent most of his career with the Cowboys, but the Broncos’ defense would not have dominated Super Bowl 50 without him. Despite playing just three years in Denver, Ware ranks fifth among linebackers on the Broncos’ all-time sack list (21.5). A member of the NFL’s 2000s All-Decade Team, Ware earned nine Pro Bowl selections and led the league in sacks twice.
46. DB Billy Thompson (1969–1981)
A third-round pick in the 1969 NFL draft, Thompson went on to spend his entire 13-year career with the Broncos. He was part of the “Orange Crush” defense that led Denver to the Super Bowl after the 1977 season and earned three Pro Bowls nods during his career. Thompson earned one first-team All-Pro, one second-team All-Pro and one second-team All-AFL nod during his career and is a member of the Broncos’ Ring of Fame. He owns an NFL record with four fumbles returned for touchdowns and he ranks third in franchise history with 40 interceptions.
45. DE Paul Smith (1968-1978)
A two-time Pro Bowler and a three-time second-team All-Pro selection, Smith was a key member of the team’s “Orange Crush” defense in the 1970s and helped Denver reach a Super Bowl. The league did not track tackles and sacks during his career, but Smith was a productive defender and earned a spot in the Broncos’ Ring of Fame in 1986.
44. CB Aqib Talib (2014–2017)
A key member of Denver’s famous “No Fly Zone” secondary, Talib made the Pro Bowl in each of his four seasons with the Broncos. He helped Denver’s defense win Super Bowl 50 and earned first-team All-Pro honors in 2016. Talib totaled 11 interceptions during his time with the Broncos and returned six of them for touchdowns.
43. QB Craig Morton (1977–1982)
The original No. 7 in Denver, Morton was named Comeback Player of the Year and the AFC Offensive Player in the Year after helping the Broncos reach the Super Bowl in the 1977 season. A member of the Broncos’ Ring of Fame, Morton ranks third on the team’s all-time passing list in yards (11,895) and touchdowns (74).
42. LB/DL Alfred Williams (1996-1999)
Williams spent time with the Bengals and 49ers before landing with the Broncos — his career then tookoff in Denver. He was named an All-Pro and voted to the Pro Bowl in his first season with the Broncos (1996) and went on to help the team win back-to-back Super Bowls in the 1997 and 1998 seasons. He retired after the 1999 season after totaling 59.5 sacks in his career.
41. RB Otis Armstrong (1973–1980)
A first-round pick in the 1973 NFL draft, Armstrong went on to spend his entire eight-year career in Denver. A two-time Pro Bowler and a one-time All-Pro selection, Armstrong helped the Broncos reach the Super Bowl in 1977 and ranks fourth on the team’s all-time rushing list (4,453 yards).
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40. DL Neil Smith (1997–1999)
After spending the first nine years of his career with the Chiefs, Smith signed with the division rival Broncos and helped the team win back-to-back Super Bowls. He totaled 19 sacks during a three-year run in Denver and earned one of his six Pro Bowl nods while playing for the Broncos. He led the NFL in sacks in 1993 with 15 and finished his career with 104.5 sacks.
39. OT Ryan Clady (2008–2015)
Clady was selected by the Broncos in the first round of the 2008 NFL draft and went on to earn four Pro Bowl selections and two first-team All-Pro selections. He was one of the best left tackles in franchise history and though he was on injured reserve in 2015, he still received a ring after the team won Super Bowl 50. After all his contributions in Denver, Clady was certainly deserving of the championship ring.
38. DE Rulon Jones (1980–1988)
After being selected by the Broncos in the second round of the 1980 NFL draft, Jones went on to spend his entire nine-year career in Denver. He earned All-Rookie Team, All-Pro honors and Pro Bowl honors (twice) during his time with the Broncos. He ranks sixth on the team’s all-time sack list with 52.5.
37. DE Lyle Alzado (1971–1978)
Alzado may be more famously known for his time with the Raiders, but he spent the first eight years of his career in Denver. Before winning Super Bowl XVIII with the Raiders, Alzado reached Super Bowl XII as a member of the “Orange Crush” defense. During his time with Denver, Alzado reached two Pro Bowls and was named an All-Pro twice. The league did not officially track sacks until the final four years of Alzado’s career, but he is unofficially credited with 112.5 sacks.
36. OG Mark Schlereth (1995–2000)
Schlereth won a Super Bowl early in his career with the Redskins and then won two more with the Broncos in the late 1990s. He was voted to the Pro Bowl twice and is a member of the Broncos’ 50th Anniversary Team. Aside from his work as a television analyst, Schlereth is perhaps best known as the Denver offensive lineman who peed his pants while on the field.
35. C Tom Nalen (1994–2008)
Perhaps one of the most underrated centers in NFL history, Nalen anchored the Broncos’ offensive line for 12 years, earning five Pro Bowl nods along the way. A two-time Super Bowl champion and three-time All-Pro selection, Nalen is a member of the Broncos’ 50th Anniversary Team and the team’s Ring of Fame.
34. WR Steve Watson (1979–1987)
Watson helped the Broncos reach two Super Bowls during his career and earned a Pro Bowl nod in 1981. He ranks sixth on the team’s all-time receiving list for yards (6,112) and eighth for touchdowns (36). After retiring from playing, Watson coached in Denver from 2000-2008.
33. QB Frank Tripucka (1960–1963)
Tripucka was an established veteran when he arrived in Denver in 1960 to become the first quarterback in franchise history. He earned All-AFL honors after his first year with the Broncos and his No. 18 is retired (he gave Peyton Manning special permission to wear the number). A member of the Broncos’ Ring of Fame, Tripucka ranks eighth in passing yards (7,676) and touchdowns (51) on the team’s all-time list.
32. DE/OLB Elvis Dumervil (2006–2012)
Had his agent not botched contract negotiations with a fax machine gaffe in 2013, Dumervil might have spent his entire career in Denver. A five-time Pro Bowler and two-time first-team All-Pro, Dumervil led the NFL in sacks in 2009 with 17 and retired in 2018 with 105.5 career sacks. He totaled 63.5 sacks during his six years in Denver, the fifth-most in franchise history.
31. TE Riley Odoms (1972–1983)
After being selected by the Broncos in the first round of the 1972 NFL draft, Odoms went on to spend his entire 12-year career in Denver. His 5,755 receiving yards and 41 receiving touchdowns both rank second among tight ends in team history, trailing only Shannon Sharpe. Odoms helped the Broncos reach Super Bowl XII and earned four Pro Bowl nods during his productive career.
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30. WR Haven Moses (1972–1981)
After spending the first five years of his career with the Bills, Moses played the final nine years of his career with the Broncos and earned one of his two Pro Bowl nods while playing in Denver. A member of the Broncos’ Ring of Fame, Moses ranks ninth on the team’s all-time receiving list in yards (5,450) and is tied for fifth in touchdowns (44).
29. K Jason Elam (1993–2007)
Elam spent 15 of his 17 years in the NFL playing with the Broncos and earned three Pro Bowl nods and three second-team All-Pro selections. He helped Denver win back-to-back Super Bowls in the late 1990s and tied an NFL record with a 63-yard field goal in 1998. A member of the Broncos’ 50th Anniversary Team and Ring of Fame, Elam is the team’s all-time leader in points (1,786).
28. CB Chris Harris (2011-present)
After earning PFWA All-Rookie honors in 2011, Harris went on to earn four Pro Bowl nods, one first-team All-Pro selection and two second-team All-Pro selections. He was a key member of Denver’s “No Fly Zone” secondary that helped the Broncos win Super Bowl 50, and he is the only cornerback in the NFL with multiple interceptions each season since 2012.
27. WR Ed McCaffrey (1995–2003)
McCaffrey won a Super Bowl as a role player with the 49ers before arriving in Denver and then emerged as a star with the Broncos and won two more Super Bowls. He earned a Pro Bowl nod in 1998 as well as second-team All-Pro honors. A member of the Broncos’ Ring of Fame, McCaffrey ranks fifth in yards (6,200) and fourth in touchdowns (46) on the team’s all-time list.
26. RB Sammy Winder (1982–1990)
Winder spent his entire nine-year career in Denver and helped the Broncos reach the Super Bowl three times. He earned two Pro Bowl nods during his career and ranks third on the team’s all-time rushing list in yards (5,427) and touchdowns (39). Winder started a construction business, Winder Construction, during his playing career and still owns the company today.
25. S Goose Gonsoulin (1960–1966)
A star of the AFL era, Gonsoulin earned five AFL All-Star nods and and five All-AFL nods during his career. He is a second-team member of the All-Time AFL Team and a member of the Broncos’ Ring of Fame. Gonsoulin’s 43 interceptions rank second on the team’s all-time list, just one behind Steve Foley’s 44.
24. HB/K/KR Gene Mingo
Mingo played during the early days of the AFL and he was a do-it-all player. He spent time at halfback, kicker and returner — he was the first black player to serve as a placekicker in pro football history. Mingo earned two All-AFL selections during his time with the Broncos and he scored as a rusher, passer, receiver, returner and kicker. He ranks eighth in franchise history in points scored (408) and is a member of the Broncos’ Ring of Fame.
23. LB Al Wilson (1999–2006)
Wilson was a fearsome middle linebacker who probably belongs in the Broncos’ Ring of Fame. He earned five Pro Bowl nods, one first-team All-Pro selection and one second-team All-Pro selection during his eight-year career and helped Denver reach the AFC championship game in 2005. Before his career was cut short by a neck injury, Wilson totaled over 6,000 tackles, 21.5 sacks and five interceptions.
22. WR/KR/PR Rick Upchurch (1975–1983)
Perhaps the greatest returner in franchise history, Upchurch totaled 5,363 return yards and returned eight kicks for touchdowns during his nine-year career. He was also a weapon on offense, totaling 4,369 receiving yards and 24 touchdowns. He was a four-time Pro Bowler and a five-time All-Pro, earning him spots on the NFL’s 1970s and 1980s All-Decade Teams, the Broncos’ 50th Anniversary Team and the Broncos’ Ring of Fame.
21. DL Trevor Pryce (1997–2005)
The Broncos hit a home run when they selected Pryce in the first round of the 1997 NFL Draft. He went on to win back-to-back Super Bowls and earned four consecutive Pro Bowl nods and three straight All-Pro nods. He is a member of the Broncos’ Ring of Fame, and his 64 sacks rank fourth in franchise history.
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20. WR Lionel Taylor (1960–1966)
Taylor was a member of the Broncos’ original roster and earned five All-AFL honors and three All-AFL honors during his time with the team. He led the AFL in receptions five times (1960-1963, 1965); ranks fourth on Denver’s all-time receiving yards list (6,872); and is tied for fifth with 44 touchdown receptions.
19. WR Demaryius Thomas (2010–2018)
One of the most accomplished wide receivers in Broncos history, Thomas earned five Pro Bowl selections and two second-team All-Pro honors during his time in Denver. He played in two Super Bowls and helped the Broncos defeat the Panthers in Super Bowl 50. Thomas ranks second on the team’s all-time receiving list in yards (9,055) and touchdowns (60).
18. S Dennis Smith (1981–1994)
Steve Atwater is building momentum for selection to the Pro Football Hall of Fame, but Smith shouldn’t be overlooked either. During his 14-year career with the Broncos, Smith earned six Pro Bowl selections, three first-team All-AFC nods and one second-team All-Pro selection. He helped Denver reach the Super Bowl three times and is a member of the Broncos’ Ring of Fame.
17. DL Rich Jackson (1967–1972)
The league did not track tackles or sacks when Jackson played in the NFL, but he earned three Pro Bowl selections, three first-team All-Pro nods and a second-team All-AFL selection during his seven-year career. Before his career was cut short by a knee injury, Jackson unofficially totaled 43 sacks.
16. LB Tom Jackson (1973–1986)
Jackson was a key member of the “Orange Crush” defense that led the Broncos to Super Bowl XII. He earned three Pro Bowl selections and three All-Pro selections during his career and is a member of Denver’s Ring of Fame and 50th Anniversary Team. After retiring from football, he worked for ESPN for 29 years and won the Pete Rozelle Radio-Television Award in 2015.
15. DE Simon Fletcher (1985–1995)
Fletcher spent his entire 11-year career in Denver and helped the team reach the Super Bowl three times. He held an NFL record of 10 straight games with a sack that stood until Chiefs defensive lineman Chris Jones recorded a sack in 11 straight games in 2018. A member of the Broncos’ Ring of Fame, Fletcher’s 97.5 career sacks rank second in franchise history, trailing only Von Miller.
14. WR Rod Smith (1994–2007)
Smith owns the NFL record for the most receiving yards (11,389) and touchdown receptions (68) among undrafted players in league history. He led the NFL in receptions in 2001 and earned three Pro Bowl nods and two second-team All-Pro nods during his 13-year career. A two-time Super Bowl champion and a member of the Broncos Ring of Fame, Smith ranks No. 1 on the the team’s all-time receiving list.
13. CB Louis Wright (1975–1986)
Wright should probably receive more consideration for the Pro Football Hall of Fame. He was a shutdown cornerback before that phrase was popularized in the NFL, earning five Pro Bowl nods and two first-team All-Pro nods during his 12-year career. A member of the Broncos’ Ring of Fame, Wright helped the team reach two Super Bowls during his career and ranks eighth on the team’s all-time interceptions list (26).
12. S Steve Foley (1976-1986)
Foley recorded 44 interceptions during his time in Denver, a franchise record that still stands. He earned an All-Pro nod in 1978 after he totaled six interceptions, which tied his career high. A key member of the “Orange Crush” defense, Foley helped the Broncos reach two Super Bowls (XII and XXI), but Denver came up short in each game.
11. OG Gary Zimmerman (1993–1997)
Arguably the best offensive lineman in franchise history, Zimmerman earned seven Pro Bowl selections, five first-team All-Pro selections and three second-team All-Pro selections during his 12-year career. He played seven seasons with the Vikings and five seasons with the Broncos. A member of the NFL’s 1980s and 1990s All-Decade Teams, Zimmerman made the Vikings’ list of the top 50 players in franchise history, and he’s a member of the Broncos’ Ring of Fame. Zimmerman won a Super Bowl in Denver and was enshrined in the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2008.
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10. DL/LB Karl Mecklenburg (1983–1994)
Another player that deserves more consideration for the Pro Football Hall of Fame, Mecklenburg lined up seemingly everywhere in Denver’s defense during his 12-year career. A six-time Pro Bowler and a four-time first-team All-Pro, Mecklenburg helped the Broncos reach three Super Bowls during his career and is a member of the team’s Ring of Fame. His 79 sacks rank third in franchise history.
9. LB Randy Gradishar (1974–1983)
Gradishar is yet another former Broncos defender who should already be in the Pro Football Hall of Fame. He was the leader of the “Orange Crush” defense and helped the team reach Super Bowl XII. A seven-time Pro Bowler, two-time first-team All-Pro, three-time second-team All-Pro and 1978 Defensive Player of the Year, Gradishar is a member of the Broncos’ Ring of Fame.
8. S Steve Atwater (1989–1998)
Atwater appears to be building momentum for the Pro Football Hall of Fame and it seems to be only a matter of time before he ends up in Canton. Atwater helped the Broncos reach three Super Bowls, winning two of them in the late 1990s. He was an eight-time Pro Bowler, a two-time first-team All-Pro and a one-time second-team All-Pro during his 11-year career. A member of the NFL’s 1990s All-Decade Team and the Broncos’ Ring of Fame, Atwater ranks sixth among safeties on the team’s all-time interceptions list (24).
7. QB Peyton Manning (2012–2015)
Manning spent most of his career with the Colts, but Denver won the AFC West all four years he played for the Broncos and he led the team to two Super Bowls, winning Super Bowl 50. A 14-time Pro Bowler and a two-time Super Bowl champion, Manning set NFL records with 5,477 passing yards and 55 passing touchdowns during the 2013 season, earning his fifth NFL MVP award.
6. OLB Von Miller (2011-present)
Miller could probably retire today and still end up in the Pro Football Hall of Fame. He dominated Super Bowl 50 and earned Super Bowl MVP honors after recording 2.5 sacks and two forced fumbles in a 24-10 win over the Carolina Panthers. A seven-time Pro Bowler, three-time first-team All-Pro, four-time second-team All-Pro and the 2011 Defensive Rookie of the Year, Miller has recorded more sacks (98) than any other player in Broncos history.
5. CB Champ Bailey (2004–2013)
Bailey was a lockdown cornerback, shutting down receivers on his side of the field seemingly every game. Some quarterbacks still tested Bailey, though, and he led the NFL with 10 interceptions in 2006 and was the runnerup for the Defensive Player of the Year award. Bailey was voted to 12 Pro Bowls during his 15-year career, more times than any other cornerback in NFL history. A member of the NFL’s 2000s All-Decade Team and the Broncos’ Ring of Fame, Bailey was enshrined in the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2019.
4. RB Floyd Little (1967–1975)
Known as “The Franchise,” Little put the Broncos on the map in the late 1960s and early 1970s. He led the league in rushing yards in 1971 (1,133) and scored more touchdowns than any other running back in 1973 (12). A five-time Pro Bowler, Little is a member of the team’s Ring of Fame, and his No. 44 is retired. He was enshrined in the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2010.
3. TE Shannon Sharpe (1990–1999, 2002–2003)
Sharpe won one Super Bowl with the Ravens and two Super Bowls with the Broncos during his 14-year career. The eight-time Pro Bowler and four-time first-team All-Pro is a member of the NFL’s 1990s All-Decade Team and the Broncos’ Ring of Fame. He ranks third in receiving yards (8,439) and receiving touchdowns (55) on the team’s all-time list. Sharpe was enshrined in the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2011.
2. RB Terrell Davis (1995–2001)
Davis’ career was cut short by a knee injury, but he was the best running back in the league when healthy. A two-time Super Bowl champion, three-time Pro Bowler and three-time first-team All-Pro, Davis won league MVP and Super Bowl MVP honors in the 1998 season. He is one of just seven players in NFL history who have rushed for 2,000 yards in a season, and he is Denver’s all-time leader in rushing yards (7,607) and rushing touchdowns (60). Davis was enshrined in the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2017.
1. QB John Elway (1983–1998)
Elway spent his entire 16-year career in Denver and helped the Broncos reach five Super Bowls, winning two. He was named the NFL’s MVP in 1987 and was selected to nine Pro Bowls during his career. A member of the NFL’s 1990s All-Decade Team and the Broncos’ Ring of Fame, Elway is Denver’s all-time leader in passing yards (51,475) and touchdown passes (300). The Broncos have retired Elway’s No. 7, and he now serves as the team’s general manager. He won a third Super Bowl, this time as an executive, when Denver defeated the Panthers in Super Bowl 50.
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