Broncos in Numbers: Who Gets the Forever Fashion Treatment?
So, you're a die-hard Broncos fan, bleeding orange and blue (and maybe a little green after last season...no worries, we've all been there). You've got your favorite players' jerseys hanging proudly, but you notice some glaring absences. Numbers like 7, 18, and 44 are curiously missing. What's the deal? Did the laundry guy lose them in a particularly vigorous spin cycle?
Nope! Those numbers have been retired, my friend. They're basically sent to jersey heaven, never to grace the shoulders of a mere mortal player again. But why? Let's dive into the hallowed halls of Broncos lore and find out!
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What Numbers Are Retired For The Denver Broncos |
The Jersey Gods Have Spoken: Officially Retired Numbers
Number 7: John Elway. This one's a no-brainer. Elway's the king, the legend, the guy who brought home the Lombardi trophies (twice!). He practically invented comebacks and his grit is the stuff of Broncos bedtime stories.
Number 18: A Tale of Two Quarterbacks. This one gets a little interesting. Originally retired for Frank Tripucka, the Broncos' first franchise quarterback, number 18 got a special dispensation for another legend: Peyton Manning. Let's just say Tripucka was a real stand-up guy (and apparently a good negotiator) to share the honor.
Number 44: Floyd Little. The "Franchise Formerly Known as The Galloping Ghost," Little was a rushing record-breaker whose moves left defenders eating his dust.
The Unofficially "Off-Limits" Number
- Number 87: Steve Atwater. This hard-hitting safety wasn't officially retired, but it's been a ghost town at 87 ever since Atwater hung up his cleats. The Broncos like to show respect to their greats, and you just don't mess with a legend like Atwater.
So, there you have it! These numbers are reserved for the Broncos' all-time greats, the guys whose jerseys deserve a place of honor next to your nachos and extra-large soda on game day.
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FAQ: Your Burning Number Retirement Questions Answered (in 5 seconds flat!)
How to know if a number is retired?
Check the rafters at Empower Field at Mile High, or ask a superfan (they'll be happy to lecture you for an hour...consider it free entertainment).
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How can a player get their number retired? Win championships, break records, and become a Broncos legend. Easy peasy, right?
Tip: Reread if it feels confusing.
How many numbers are retired by the Broncos?
Officially? Three. Unofficially? Let's just say some numbers are more haunted than others.
Can I wear a retired number for a Broncos costume? Go for it! Just don't expect John Elway to autograph it.
How can I convince the Broncos to retire my number? Start by becoming the NFL's next superstar. Then, maybe we can talk.