A Look Back at Denver Broncos Quarterbacks
The Denver Broncos have a rich history, and a key part of that history is the quarterbacks who’ve led the team. From Hall of Famers to fan favorites, the Broncos’ signal-callers have shaped the team’s identity and success.
Notable Broncos Quarterbacks
The Broncos have had a number of quarterbacks that have left a mark. Some of the most memorable and impactful include:
John Elway
Arguably the greatest Bronco of all time, John Elway defined the franchise for over a decade. Elway led the team to five Super Bowl appearances, winning back-to-back titles in Super Bowl XXXII and XXXIII. His late-game heroics and strong arm are legendary. More information about John Elway and his career can be found on his Wikipedia page.
Peyton Manning
Peyton Manning’s arrival in Denver marked a new era of success. After a neck injury ended his tenure in Indianapolis, Manning joined the Broncos and led them to Super Bowl XLVIII and Super Bowl 50. He won Super Bowl 50 as a Bronco and established numerous passing records during his time in Denver, retiring after the victory.
Craig Morton
Craig Morton was the quarterback when the Broncos made their first Super Bowl appearance in Super Bowl XII against the Dallas Cowboys. Although the Broncos lost that game, Morton was instrumental in bringing the Broncos to national prominence.
Jake Plummer
Jake Plummer brought a different style of play to Denver, known for his scrambling ability and unconventional throws. He led the Broncos to the AFC Championship game in 2005 but fell short of reaching the Super Bowl.
Jay Cutler
Jay Cutler was a highly touted prospect who showed flashes of brilliance during his time with the Broncos. Drafted in 2006, Cutler had a strong arm and potential, but he was eventually traded to the Chicago Bears.
Tim Tebow
Tim Tebow’s brief stint with the Broncos was marked by improbable comebacks and unwavering faith. While his passing statistics were not outstanding, Tebow led the Broncos to the playoffs in 2011, creating “Tebowmania” in Denver.
Recent Quarterbacks
The Broncos have struggled to find a consistent quarterback since Manning’s retirement. Trevor Siemian, Case Keenum, Joe Flacco, Drew Lock, Teddy Bridgewater, and Russell Wilson have all taken snaps under center, but none have been able to replicate the success of their predecessors.
FAQs about Broncos Quarterbacks
Who is the greatest Broncos quarterback of all time?
John Elway is widely considered the greatest Broncos quarterback of all time due to his longevity, Super Bowl victories, and overall impact on the franchise.
How many Super Bowls have the Broncos won with different quarterbacks?
The Broncos have won three Super Bowls, two with John Elway and one with Peyton Manning.
Who was the Broncos’ quarterback before Peyton Manning?
Before Peyton Manning, the Broncos cycled through several quarterbacks, including Kyle Orton, Tim Tebow, and Brady Quinn.
Who is the current quarterback for the Denver Broncos?
As of the start of the 2024 season, the Denver Broncos’ starting quarterback is Bo Nix.
Which Broncos quarterback had the most passing yards in a single season?
Peyton Manning holds the record for most passing yards in a single season for the Broncos, with 5,477 yards in 2013.
Summary
The Denver Broncos’ quarterback history is filled with iconic figures and periods of both great success and rebuilding. From the legendary John Elway to the brief but impactful tenure of Peyton Manning, the quarterback position has been central to the Broncos’ identity. The team continues to search for the next long-term solution under center, hoping to recapture the magic of past eras.
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