The Denver Broncos stand as one of the NFL’s most resilient and passionately supported franchises. Founded in 1960 as part of the American Football League, the Broncos evolved from a struggling early organization into one of the league’s most respected and successful teams.
Known for mile-high altitude, a fiercely loyal fanbase, and multiple championship runs, Denver has built a tradition defined by competitiveness, toughness, and unforgettable moments.
Broncos fans, long recognized for their enthusiasm and dedication, have filled stadiums through rebuilding seasons, playoff pushes, and the franchise’s most historic eras. With iconic uniforms, memorable stars, and a strong connection to the Rocky Mountain region, the Broncos remain one of the NFL’s signature teams.
Today, the Denver Broncos continue working toward a return to perennial contention. Their legacy of strong defensive play, standout quarterbacks, and commitment to player development keeps the franchise positioned for future success.
Where Do the Denver Broncos Play?
The Denver Broncos play their home games at Empower Field at Mile High. It is one of the NFL’s most unique stadium environments. Located in Denver, Colorado, the stadium seats more than 76,000 fans and is known for its loud atmosphere and high-altitude conditions.
Opened in 2001 as the successor to the original Mile High Stadium, the venue preserves many elements of its predecessor while incorporating modern amenities, improved sightlines, and upgraded fan experiences. The stadium plays host not only to Broncos games but also to concerts, international soccer matches, and major sporting events.
The elevation—over 5,200 feet above sea level—creates a distinct home-field advantage. Thinner air affects player conditioning, ball trajectory, and kicking distance, making Denver one of the toughest places in the league for visiting teams.
History of the Denver Broncos
The Denver Broncos began play in 1960 as one of the founding AFL franchises, but the team struggled during its early years. Despite financial challenges and limited on-field success, the Broncos established a devoted fanbase and a strong foothold in the growing Denver region.
The franchise experienced its first breakthrough in the 1970s. Under coach Red Miller, the “Orange Crush” defense helped produce the franchise’s first Super Bowl appearance in the 1977 season. That marked a major turning point and established Denver as a competitive AFC force.
The most iconic era in Broncos history arrived with quarterback John Elway, who joined the team in 1983. Elway led Denver to five Super Bowls and delivered two championships in the late 1990s under head coach Mike Shanahan. Backed by stars like Terrell Davis, Shannon Sharpe, Steve Atwater, and Rod Smith, the Broncos captured Super Bowls XXXII and XXXIII. Getting over the championship hump cemented the team as one of the AFC’s elite franchises.
Another championship run came in the 2010s with the arrival of Peyton Manning. Under head coach Gary Kubiak, a dominant defense featuring Von Miller, DeMarcus Ware, Chris Harris Jr., and Aqib Talib propelled Denver to victory in Super Bowl 50. Manning’s leadership and Miller’s MVP performance highlighted one of the greatest defensive seasons in modern NFL history.
In recent years, the Broncos have focused on rebuilding through young talent, improved coaching continuity, and a commitment to returning to playoff contention. Their rich history and competitive tradition remain a driving force behind every new season.
Interesting Facts & Franchise Milestones for the Denver Broncos
- Three-time Super Bowl champions: XXXII, XXXIII, and 50.
- Home to the “Orange Crush” defense, one of the NFL’s most iconic defensive units.
- The high altitude at Mile High Stadium gives Denver one of the league’s strongest home-field advantages.
- John Elway is the only starting quarterback to win Super Bowls with the same team 16 seasons apart.
- Terrell Davis is one of the few running backs to record a 2,000-yard season and a Super Bowl MVP.
- Super Bowl 50 featured one of the most dominant defensive performances in NFL history.
Notable Denver Broncos Players and Coaches
Notable Players
John Elway, Quarterback (1983–1998)
John Elway is the most iconic figure in Broncos history. Known for his arm strength, mobility, and clutch performances, Elway led Denver to five Super Bowl appearances. To close out his storied career, he won back-to-back titles in the 1997 and 1998 seasons. He retired as one of the most accomplished quarterbacks in NFL history and later became a key front-office executive.
Terrell Davis, Running Back (1995–2001)
Terrell Davis was the engine of Denver’s late-1990s championship teams. A powerful and decisive runner, Davis produced a 2,000-yard season in 1998, won NFL MVP, and earned Super Bowl XXXII MVP honors. Despite a shortened career, his peak dominance earned him a place in the Hall of Fame.
Von Miller, Linebacker (2011–2021)
Von Miller is one of the most feared pass rushers of the modern era. With elite quickness and technique, he recorded more than 100 sacks for Denver. In Super Bowl 50, he delivered a legendary performance to earn MVP honors. Miller anchored the defense during one of the franchise’s strongest periods.
Shannon Sharpe, Tight End (1990–1999, 2002–2003)
Shannon Sharpe redefined the tight end position with his combination of athleticism, physicality, and route-running. A three-time Super Bowl champion and Hall of Famer, Sharpe became one of the league’s most productive tight ends and a central figure in Denver’s championship success.
Peyton Manning, Quarterback (2012–2015)
Peyton Manning’s arrival helped transform the Broncos into a dominant offensive force, leading to record-breaking seasons and a Super Bowl 50 victory. Manning set the NFL single-season passing touchdown and yardage records in Denver and added a second Super Bowl ring to his Hall of Fame career.
Notable Coaches
Mike Shanahan (1995–2008)
Mike Shanahan guided Denver to back-to-back Super Bowl victories and created one of the league’s most efficient offensive systems. Known for his run-focused schemes and creative play design, Shanahan oversaw many of the franchise’s greatest seasons.
Dan Reeves (1981–1992)
Dan Reeves played a major role in shaping the Broncos into a perennial contender during the 1980s and early 1990s.
Under his leadership, Denver won five AFC West titles and reached three Super Bowls. Known for disciplined teams and strong organizational structure, Reeves helped establish the consistent winning culture that defined the early John Elway era.
Red Miller (1977–1980)
Red Miller led the Broncos to their first Super Bowl appearance and helped establish the team as a competitive force in the AFC. His leadership and the rise of the Orange Crush defense began a new era of Broncos football.
Gary Kubiak (2015–2016)
Gary Kubiak’s short tenure produced one of the most memorable seasons in franchise history—Super Bowl 50. His balanced approach and steady leadership helped guide a dominant defensive team to a championship.