So, Who Exactly Owns the Denver Broncos? A Hilarious History (and Current Situation)
Ah, the Denver Broncos. A team known for its fierce orange mane, passionate fans (affectionately nicknamed "Broncoholics"), and... well, a bit of an ownership shuffle over the years. But fear not, my friend, because we're about to untangle this whole bronco corral for you. Buckle up, because this wild ride is going to be a touchdown (hopefully for your trivia knowledge at least).
How Many Owners Do The Denver Broncos Have |
From Humble Beginnings to Big Bucks
The Broncos started out in 1960 like a scrappy colt, with Bob Howsam as the first owner. Let's just say the early years weren't exactly a winning streak. Then came Gerald Phipps in 1961, but things weren't much better. Maybe owning a football team just wasn't their lucky charm.
Enter the Kaiser and the Bowlen Dynasty (Almost)
Finally, in 1981, Edgar Kaiser Jr., a Canadian financier, stepped onto the field (figuratively speaking, of course). Things started to look up, but then came Pat Bowlen in 1984. Now, this guy was a legend. He led the Broncos to three Super Bowl victories and cemented himself as a beloved figure in Denver. However, due to health reasons, he eventually had to step back in 2014.
Tip: Avoid distractions — stay in the post.
The Great Ownership Gallop
Here's where things get interesting. After Bowlen, Joe Ellis took the reins for a bit, but then... enter the bidding war of 2022! Billionaire Rob Walton, of the Walmart Walton clan, swooped in and snatched the team, along with a whole posse of interesting co-owners. We're talking about people like Mellody Hobson, the CEO of Starbucks (because apparently, caffeine is key to running a football team?), Condoleezza Rice, the former Secretary of State (diplomatic skills for those tough negotiations?), and even Lewis Hamilton, the legendary Formula One driver (maybe he can teach the Broncos some lightning-fast moves?).
So, how many owners do the Denver Broncos have now? Well, buckle up again because it's a group ownership situation. Technically, the Walton-Penner Family Ownership Group is at the helm, with Rob Walton as the lead guy and his son-in-law, Greg Penner, as the CEO. But that group also includes those other high-profile names we mentioned. So, it's kind of like a superhero team, but instead of capes, they have fat wallets (and maybe a love for football).
QuickTip: Go back if you lost the thread.
Important Side Note: This whole ownership thing can get complicated, so if you ever find yourself in a heated debate about it, just remember this: at least the Broncos aren't constantly borrowing a lawnmower from their neighbors (unlike some other teams we could mention).
How to Bronco Like a Boss: FAQ
Alright, alright, so we covered the owners. But maybe you're wondering how to truly embrace your inner Broncoholic. Fear not, for we have the answers!
Tip: Reread if it feels confusing.
1. How to Dress Like a True Fan? Orange. Just... all orange. Helmet? Orange. Jersey? Orange. Socks? You guessed it, orange. Bonus points for creative orange face paint (but avoid looking like a pumpkin... unless it's Halloween, of course).
2. How to Talk Like a Broncoholic? Learn the lingo! "Mile High Miracle"? Gotta know it. "Orange Crush Defense"? Memorize it. "Elway to the Throne"? Inner circle knowledge right there.
QuickTip: Read in order — context builds meaning.
3. How to Celebrate a Touchdown? The "Mile High Salute" is a must. Fist pump? Absolutely. Screaming your lungs out? Encouraged (just don't scare the poor concession stand workers).
4. How to Get Pumped Up for Game Day? Tailgating is an art form, mastered by Broncoholics. Burgers, brats, and enough chips and salsa to fuel a stampede. Don't forget the team spirit!
5. How to Deal with a Loss? This one's tough. Refuse to believe it happened? A valid strategy (for a short while). Channel your frustration into enthusiastic cheering for the next game? The true Broncoholic way.