The American Football league and National Football League merged into the modern NFL in 1970.
Since the date they entered the NFL the Broncos rank as the only team in history to have never had a non-sellout at home (the Houston Texans are in this class too, but they are an expansion team with just a decade of play under their belts).
In that time the Broncos have been to the Super Bowl six times (only three teams have been to more), are tied for sixth in winning seasons with 24, fifth in overall wins (385), second only to the Steelers in home wins (221) and are sixth in advancing to the conference championship game eight times.
Quite a record.
And it has not been done just on offense.
The Broncos had the Orange Crush defense and the have featured a number of superb defensive players over the years, but in an odd but true twist, Denver has not placed one of its own defensive players in the Pro Football Hall of Fame.
Willie Brown is an ex-Bronco in the Hall, but of course it is acknowledged that the bulk of his work was as an Oakland Raider (although he was an All-AFL cornerback here before being traded).
It is not as if our supporters have not worked on it. Rick Gosselin of the Dallas Morning News has been very supportive of Bronco candidates, and our own local Pro Football Hall of Fame voter, Jeff Legwold of The Denver Post, is diligent and passionate in his hard work and support for Bronco candidates. No one could work harder than Jeff does to promote guys whom he feels are deserving.
So this is not so much a beef as me just suggesting four defenders who merit continued future consideration. There are many others, and some who played here as well as in other cities (John Lynch and Brian Dawkins, who both stand as legitimate candidates as well).
But consider some facts.
Randy Gradishar was a finalist for the Hall in 2003 and 2008 and has been one of the 25 semifinalists for the Classes of 2005, 2006 and 2007.
Gradishar is credited with 2,049 tackles over his 10-year career, in which he made the Pro Bowl seven times and was named the NFL Defensive Player of the Year in 1978. He helped the Broncos to four playoff berths and was the leader of the Orange Crush defense that propelled the franchise to its first AFC championship and Super Bowl appearance in 1977.
The book “Total Football—The Official Encyclopedia of the National Football League”, includes an article on the 250 greatest players of all time, with Gradishar prominent on that list.
Karl Mecklenburg was the 310th player chosen in the 1983 draft but quickly established himself as a defensive force for the Broncos, once lining up at seven different positions in one game at Pittsburgh, recording four sacks and leading Sports Illustrated writer Paul Zimmerman to call Meck’s composite performance that day one of the greatest he had ever witnessed.
Mecklenburg helped Denver to seven postseason appearances, five division titles and three Super Bowl berths (the 1986, 1987 and 1989 seasons) and finished his career with 1,145 tackles and a then-franchise record 79 quarterback sacks. He is the only player in Broncos history to have two four-sack games in his career.
Mecklenburg had 100 tackles in a season six times, was voted to play in the Pro Bowl six times as well, and was tabbed the 1986 Defensive Player of the Year by the Football News.
Louis Wright was a quite leader in the Orange Crush defensive backfield. One of the first true “big” cornerbacks in pro football, he was regarded by coaches and scouts as one of the absolute premier corners of his era (1975-86), a completely dominant player on his side of the field. Routinely entire games would take place without the other team even attempting a throw to the receiver covered by Wright.
Wright was a five-time Pro Bowl choice and helped lead the Broncos to six playoff appearances and to two Super Bowls—significantly, the two Super Bowls were nine years apart (Super Bowl XII in 1977 and XXI in 1986), with Wright still playing at a high level a decade after the first. He played every game in the season eight times and was a recognized force in Denver’s secondary for all of his 163 career starts.
Also in the defensive backfield, Steve Atwater had a brilliant 10-year career at safety that included seven consecutive Pro Bowls from 1989-96 and eight total selections to that illustrious team.
One of the toughest safeties in the NFL during his entire career, Atwater was a pivotal force in the defensive backfield for the Broncos team that became one of just four franchises to win back-to-back world championships.
In Super Bowl XXXII Atwater had one of the greatest games by a safety in championship game history, He was named Associated Press All-Pro three times during his great career.
Another great Bronco, defensive end Rich Jackson, was on course to Hall of Fame consideration before having his career cut short by injury, which has damaged his chances with the voters in evaluating a full and competitive field.
Indeed, the Broncos who has advanced the farthest in the voting process without selection over the last three years, and who perhaps stands the closest right now is Terrell Davis, another great [player on offense for Denver. A future blog will look at why TD too deserves entry.
Having said all that, the voters have a tough job. Every one of the 32 teams has several players who are felt deserving of Hall induction, and every year the list is pared to a maximum of 15 recent and two vetrerans committee selections.
It is a tough job, and I recognize that. But to fans, the press and the voters themselves, I just say, don’t forget about the Denver defenses and the players who have had such strong roles in continued Broncos success.
Tags: Jim Saccomano, NFL Hall of Fame
Or as OSS put it – “Absolute @##$$%^&^$%$&$&^$!!”
Yep! That’s what it is!!!
Absolute Horse Pucky!!!! or bronco pucky!!!! LOL
Good chance – that if the Broncos can turn it around, with PM, a lot of former Broncos might get the recognition they deserve.
So for all my favorite Broncos of the past – Hail the Neck!!! LOL
OSS, he does seem to have a bit of an issue to his right side if you watch the last game, but he also threw a few really good balls that way. I don’t know, but I noticed Saturday. He is FINE I’m sure it’s something he’s working on. It was mentioned during camp, but I’m still not worried about it. He’ll get it figured out.
I`m not the slightest concern about Peyton at all. Peyton is good to go.
As for the issue with PFM not being able to throw to his right, I think that is hogwash!! It seems like he is still getting used to some new receivers, and still shaking off some rust. I really think he will look better this Sunday!
On MJD, I agree that maybe with JDR and PFM being here that might lure him to Denver.
One the issue with HOF, I still think its an east coast biased on the part of the media. I recall that when Walter Payton was asked who hit him the hardest in his career, he said Gradishar without a doubt. The man retired with 2,049 tackles!!! Dick Butkis got in the HOF with 1,020 tackles. Gradishar had 1,029 more tackle in his career then Butkis did. If that isn’t east coast biased then I don’t know what is. I also think Simon Fletcher should be considered.
Dear Jim Saccomano:
Jim I would so like to have dinner with you!! Or better yet two days just to talk to you!! You better write a memories book on the Broncos History and add all your opinions and personal experiences with your long tenure with the Broncos!! Your insight and articles have always been my favorites. I hate to see your post write up just passed buy and not talked about more by the bloggers here! Some just say thanks and move on like it’s the next post to continue from the last thread! I for one have saved your posts rich with insight blended with experience and great insight on the Denver Broncos!! Thirty Four years of dedication. Looking forward for more for many years to come!!
http://blog.denverbroncos.com/about-jim/
Thank You from a Fan!!
FTR
I watched the Seachickens vs Broncos again tonight that aired on NFLN and I`m not as worried about the 2nd half as the first two times I watched the game. First, we had quite a few main players that did not suit up for the game because of injury. Second, We dominated the first half, even with the 3 turnovers. Third, and this gave me optimism about what we can really do. The Broncos were only down by 6 points at the start of the 4th quarter. The game started to unravel and get out of hand after minutes into the 4th. It would be a different story if all our starters played and this were a real game. We were only down 6 by the start of the last quarter and thats encouraging to think on. Just saying.
@Jim
Mecklenburg was a 12 round selection! Back in the day that was a reach! The Denver Broncos have a long list of who should have made the Hall!! Just like how the NFL picks your seclude goes hand in hand with who goes to the Hall. How did we end up with the hardest seclude in the NFL this year?
Just me!
ILMSDB History!
LONG LIVE THE NECK!!
Peace out.
FTR
Gasperdn, I mentioned Fletcher earlier myself. Simon averaged 9.5 sacks a season for 10 years. Not bad!
FTR, Mr. Saccomano already has!
http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/0760334765/ref=aw_d_detail?pd=1
Something I STILL would love to have autographed!
Even if the “East Coast Bias” remains… One Champ Bailey is certain to change that!
sndvl
I have that one already– I am hoping for an update book!! Alot has happend with McD and JE and Bowlen to now. Get er done Jim!!
FTR
Evening FTR, I`m ready for some LIVE BULLETS. Bring on the regular season. LOL
Me to Strands. Lots of roster moves comming. I am sure there will be some hard choices that have to be made!
I excited for the real games to start!!
Peace Out.
FTR
Morning Gang!
Thanks for the read Jim………….always a treat to learn something new about our team’s history. There should def be more Broncos in the HOF………..and that’s a shame. I know we have some future HOFer’s on our team right now so hopefully they’ll get the nod when their time comes.
Still don’t think MJD is going anywhere as I feel that Jax will be asking too high of a pricetag. But stranger things have happened, right? I mean, we do have PFM as our QB………..something I never would’ve imagined in my wildest dreams.
I think the Pitt game to open the season is very winnable. I don’t think Wallace will be in sync with the O by that time……and he was the main reason why Brown was open so much. This now puts all the pressure on Brown and I’m sure Champ will have him covered well. Their run game is nothing to really be afraid of……..ben will be ben but I think we can expose his new O.
I think the D will take care of its side of the ball……………..and it’ll rest on the O to take care of business.
Starting the season with a W will most def build some confidence heading into Atlanta for game 2. This will be a tough game as the Falcons are money at home….they won 6 of 8 at home and one of those losses was in OT. But they’re far from unbeatable!
17 more days til we kick-off the season!!!! This wait will be excrutiatiing!
GO BRONCOS!
man………I just read the article by Lindsay Jones about playing opposite Champ and she brought up how he had his best couple of years when Williams was there..
That whole incident still breaks my heart…………such a sensless act and we lost a potential HOF’er in Williams. He was awesome and had such a bright future at the position. He would’ve made our team better for years to come.
I think Porter is the best player Champ has had playing opposite of him since Williams……….and I’m expecting a great year from the two of them.
Good morning Kod – I still remember a game vs. the Colts where Manning wouldn’t really throw Champs way that day.
He did however go after Darrent all afternoon. Darrent had his hands full with Reggie Wayne. RIP Darrent Williams.
I also believe Tracy Porter is the best CB we’ve had in quite a few years playing opposite Champ. Only thing that concerns me from what I’ve read, is Porter has had a tough time finishing a 16 game season..(injuries), so hope that will change this year.
morning rbf1!
Well, health is always a concern with every player. You just never know who will go down to injury and when. Just have to roll the dice and see what happens!
But this is the best I’ve felt about our corner situation in a while…………I think we now have 2 shut-down calibre corners.
Morning guys!
Kod, I feel the exact same way. Tracy Porter has big shoes to fill. I just remember my brother complaint about Dareent and the next thing I knew he was dead!
Who is Jim Harbaugh trying to fool? Does he think we’re ignorant? Does he really believe that he was just evaluating Peyton and if he wasnt evaluating Peyton for Alex Smiths job why the heck did he waste his time and freak me out in the process? How absolutely disrespectful to Peyton Manning, who is nothing but class AND called the 49ers to tell them he was NOT GOING TO TAKE THEIR OFFER! I am very mad about this and I’m glad no one has asked Peyton to comment.
*Darrent
I agree Kod, we have a great corner back situation.
mornin’ cat………..
what did that post have to do with the blog? LMAO
I didn’t get why that blogger said that to you. I didn’t realize there were rules to the blog where you can only comment on what the blog is about. hahaha
And the blogger didn’t even post anything after………….too funny!
GO BRONKERS!
Yes, injuiries a concern for every player. Some players prepare by being well conditioned and in great shape.
Others are just more durable and learn to play with pain…(minor injuires). Like you said… never know.
Good morning cat!
HAHA! Kod, I am so mad! This 49er fan is trying to convince me that they never offered him anything because we haven’t heard what they offered him so therefore they didn’t offer him anything. Wow! Calling Peyton Manning a liar is going to get my ire up immediately!!!!!!!! Apparently! I’m so mad!!!!!
Hey Rotal! What’s up?
yeah right…………I’m sure Harbaugh didn’t want PM! LMAO! He wanted him BAD!
And now PM gets to rub it in his face for calling him a liar! TORCH THEM PEYTON!
Oh my gosh. I am not an idiot. I used to like the 49ers but I seriously cannot like them at the moment. Both harbaughs drive me crazy. Well, had he gone there they wouldn’t probably never thrown the ball at all and just had him hand it off. Waste of his talents. Had a Jets fan get mad at me for calling him a Tebowmaniac and then he’s like “well he won for you guys and good luck with PM his throws have no zip on them” and I didn’t want to continue the argument, my next play was “well at least he doesn’t throw at his receivers feet”… I just told him instead that I don’t care what his passes look like, I only care about first downs and TDs and by God we know he can do that. Grrrrr. I want regular season to start SO bad!
*royal… I’m typing too fast
That’s ok cat.. I understand… someones’ got your blood pumping! It’s alright Peyton will do his talking on the field.
True, but wow. 49ers fans trying to convince themselves that Harbaugh is not full of s@$& is almost hilarious when you think about it!
Harbaugh is arrogant… easy to see. His actions speak louder than his words.
Peyton Manning is probably like “friends off” LOL
Of course 9er fans love Harbaugh. He had them a few good passes away from the super bowl. You have to admit that both brothers are good coaches no matter how full of crap they are. I’m miffed about the stupid article that John Clayton wrote about PM saying he can’t throw to his right. What a bunch of crap.
Yeah they are booth good coaches. That’s right raidrhadr.. I remember watching that game with Colts vs. Steelers when Harbaugh came close to making SB.
*both*
Being right handed, you’d think PM would have a harder time thowing across his body to the left, rather than right side.
He’s thrown some good passes to right side as well. Just being dissected too much by the media..(Clayton).
So… All these teams “flirted” with Peyton Manning, so what about us….? What did we do?
raidrhadr – I was going back too far.. You’re referring to last season when niners almost made SB.
I was going back to when Harbaugh played QB for the Colts…lol.
All the Denver sportscasters think its stupid too. He’s not having any harder time throwing right than he is left, he’s just struggling a bit with long passes. He’s still healing. It’ll come!
Until PM starts winning us some games, he’s going to be over-crtiqued and overly criticized………..that’s just the way the media works………for it to be news, something has to be extremely negative or extremely positive. Right now it’s just too easy to focus on the negative so that’s the angle they’re taking……..cause PM hasn’t really had the opportunity to silence them all in games that matter.
But no worries, they’ll all be focusing on the positive once PM is the comeback player of the year and leads this team deep into the playoffs.
Nicely said, Kod!
Just remember what that article said:
“I don’t have to listen. All I have to do is simply watch the beauty of Peyton Manning playing football and know that, this year; the Broncos are in great hands. “
http://blogs.nfl.com/2012/08/23/former-colt-sorgi-peyton-manning-worked-me-like-a-dog/?module=HP11_content_stream
raidhhadr – I’ll see you at SAFAMH this year – maybe we can get together for a tailgate!!
Yeah we know that kod re: the media but thanks for the reminder…lol!
All I can say to that link cat is…………….
HAVE FUN BROCK!! LMAO
hmmmmm, do I detect some sarcasm there rbf1? lol
Cat I found this on a article elsewhere about PM having issues throwing to his right and it reminded me of you….LOL
When Manning was trying to rehab in Indy word had gotten out numerous times that his throws had lost velocity. It wasn’t obvious except to coaches in the film room with a stop watch but it became more apparent later on as the article above indicates. Manning is closing in on 37 and trying to make a come back when other players are contemplating retirement at his age. When you lose velocity the first thing that happens is interceptions. Even during his last year he threw more interceptions that year than in his whole career. The whole thing is going to blow up in Elway’s face when they have to bench Manning and the fans wonder why Elway didn’t spot the problem. Just wait till week 4 or 5 when fatigue sets in and his arm weakens even more and the fans are chanting Tebow…Tebow. Its setting up as the biggest Bust in Denver history sad to say. Elway should have concentrated on his Toyota dealerships instead of football.
Have fun Cat.
In other news, Southwest Airlines dedicated a Boeing 737 to the state of Colorado yesterday!!
It’s painted with the Colorado State flag…..nice !!!
AB………….we don’t need to rile her up anymore than she already is! hahahahaha
Just messing with you kod.. lol!
I know bro………….no worries! hahaha I’m just messing with you too!
So who do you guys think will be a surprise to make the team and a surprise that will be cut?