On August 14, 1959 the First American Football League organizational meeting was held in Chicago. The Denver Broncos, with Bob Howsam as its principal owner, was named named as a charter member along with New York, Dallas, Los Angeles, Minneapolis and Houston.
That same year in November the first player selection draft was held through 32 rounds. Denver's first pick was Roger LeClerc the Bronco's first center! In December Dean Griffing was also named general manager of the Broncos.
Since 1959 the Denver Broncos have captured two back-to-back Super Bowl Championships in 1997 and 1998. They also won the American Football Conference six times, nine AFC Western Division Championships, and were honored to be in fourteen Playoff Berths. Quite a record in their 43-year history!
Some memorable players that football fans will remember are John Elway 1983-98, Terrell Davis 1995-01, Craig Morton 1977-82, Floyd Little 1967-75, Sammy Winder 1982-90, Brian Griese 1998-01, Frank Tripucka 1960-63, Otis Armstrong 1973-80, Charley Johnson 1972-75, and Steve Ramsey 1971-76.
The Bronco's to recogonize players and administrators who played significant roles in the franchise's history created the The Denver Broncos' Ring of Fame in 1984 with an inaugural class of four members: running back Floyd Little (1967- 75), defensive end Rich Jackson (1967- 72), wide receiver Lionel Taylor (1960- 66) and safety Austin "Goose" Gonsoulin (1960- 66).
Quarterback John Elway (1983- 99) was inducted into the Ring of Fame in 1999 in a ceremony held at half- time of the Broncos’ season- opening Monday Night game vs. Miami, Sept. 13, 1999. As testament to the legend he established during his 16- year career, Elway became the first inductee for whom the customary five- year waiting period was waived.
The Denver Broncos Ring of Fame gained two new members in 2001, as linebacker Karl Mecklenburg (1983- 94) and safety Dennis Smith (1981- 94) joined the Ring’s 16 other distinguished members.
The Denver Bronco’s have an online store where you can buy player and team memorabilia such as Jerseys, Hats, T-Shirts, Sweatshirts, Outerwear, Polos, Turtlenecks, Socks, Womens, Bags, Sunglasses, Gifts, Kids, Home Furnishings, Office Furnishings, Collectibles, Trading Cards, Memorabilia, Photos, Books & Videos, Audio, Sporting Goods, and Watches.
Dan Hagopian
BestBuysOnTheNet.com
