Denver Broncos All-Time Greats: The 10 Best Players to Ever Play in Denver
By Jason Bolton June 16, 2025 09:43
The Denver Broncos boast a storied history filled with legendary players who have shaped the franchise into one of the NFL’s most respected organizations. From Super Bowl champions to Hall of Famers, the Broncos have been home to some of football’s greatest talents. Here is a definitive ranking of the top 10 players to ever wear a Broncos jersey, blending individual accolades, statistical dominance, and lasting impact on the franchise.
1. John Elway (1983–1998, QB)
Undoubtedly the greatest Bronco ever, John Elway’s legacy is synonymous with Denver football. Drafted first overall in 1983, Elway led the Broncos to five Super Bowl appearances and secured two championships (Super Bowls XXXII and XXXIII). Known for his incredible arm strength, clutch performances, and leadership, Elway retired as one of the NFL’s all-time great quarterbacks. His number 7 jersey is retired by the franchise, and he remains the Broncos’ all-time leader in passing yards (51,475) and touchdowns (300).
2. Peyton Manning (2012–2015, QB)
Peyton Manning revitalized the Broncos upon his arrival, leading them to a record-setting 2013 season and an appearance in Super Bowl XLVIII. Manning won the NFL MVP award four times in his career, two of which came during his Denver tenure. He set the single-season touchdown record with 55 in 2013 and remains one of the most prolific passers in NFL history.
3. Terrell Davis (1995–2002, RB)
A sixth-round pick who became one of the NFL’s most dominant running backs, Terrell Davis was the engine behind Denver’s late-1990s dynasty. He rushed for over 2,000 yards in 1998 and was the Super Bowl XXXII MVP. Davis’s combination of power and speed helped the Broncos win back-to-back titles in 1997 and 1998. His career was cut short by injuries, but his impact was immense, earning him a Hall of Fame induction in 2017.
4. Von Miller (2011–2021, LB/DE)
One of the most explosive pass rushers in NFL history, Von Miller was the defensive cornerstone for the Broncos’ 2015 Super Bowl 50 championship team, earning Super Bowl MVP honors. A multiple-time Pro Bowler and Defensive Player of the Year, Miller ranks second in franchise history in sacks and redefined the edge rusher role with his speed and power.
5. Champ Bailey (2004–2013, CB)
A shutdown cornerback and 12-time Pro Bowler, Champ Bailey was a defensive stalwart for Denver throughout the 2000s. Known for his coverage skills and leadership, Bailey is regarded as one of the best cornerbacks ever and was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 2019. He played a critical role in the Broncos’ defensive success during his tenure.
6. Steve Atwater (1989–1998, S)
Atwater was a hard-hitting safety and a defensive leader during the Broncos’ Super Bowl runs in the late 1990s. A nine-time Pro Bowler, Atwater was known for his physicality and playmaking ability, ranking among the franchise leaders in interceptions and tackles.
7. Randy Gradishar (1974–1983, LB)
A dominant linebacker in the 1970s, Gradishar was the heart of Denver’s defense. A seven-time Pro Bowler and key player in the Broncos’ early playoff appearances, he was known for his tackling and leadership.
8. Rod Smith (1994–2007, WR)
Undrafted but highly productive, Rod Smith is the Broncos’ all-time leader in receptions, receiving yards, and touchdowns. A three-time Pro Bowler, Smith was a reliable target for both Elway and Manning, playing a vital role in multiple playoff runs.
9. Floyd Little (1967–1975, RB)
Known as “The Franchise,” Little was the Broncos’ first true star and helped establish the team’s identity. He was a three-time Pro Bowler and remains one of the franchise’s all-time leading rushers.
10. Karl Mecklenburg (1983–1994, LB)
A fierce linebacker and pass rusher, Mecklenburg recorded 79 sacks for Denver, ranking third in franchise history. A six-time Pro Bowler, he was a key defensive player during the Broncos’ rise in the 1980s.
The Denver Broncos’ all-time greats showcase a blend of offensive brilliance, defensive dominance, and leadership that has defined the franchise’s success. From Elway’s legendary quarterbacking to Miller’s game-changing pass rush, these players have left an enduring legacy in Denver and the NFL.
LATEST
- NEWS
- |
- ARTICLES
- |
- VIDEOS
FAN ARCH PODCAST NETWORK
