For 17 years, Jason Elam simply went about his business of being one of the best kickers in the NFL.
On Wednesday, March 31, Elam retired from pro football the same way he came in, as a member of the Denver Broncos.
Elam is more than worthy of induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Time will tell whether or not he gets that honored distinction.
He leaves the game fifth in NFL history in both points scored (1,983) and field goals made (436). He set a league record by scoring at least 100 points in 16 consecutive seasons. His 63-yard field goal against Jacksonville in 1998 tied Tom Dempsey’s NFL record. He retires as the Broncos’ all-time leader in points scored (1,786) and is second in wins (152).
But it isn’t Elam’s astounding statistics that leave the biggest mark. It isn’t even his uncanny ability to consistently come through in the clutch. Elam’s greatest attribute is his humble, gracious, and unselfish character.
Even in officially announcing his retirement, Elam was more interested in reliving special moments than listing out personal achievements.
“There’s so many memories. And that’s what I hoped for today, that this wouldn’t be a celebration of a career but a celebration of relationships and friendships,” Elam shared before pausing while holding back tears.
“And that’s what I’m really grateful for.”
I remember first meeting Elam one year at training camp in Greeley. A mutual friend introduced us and it was impossible not to be both drawn to and impressed by Elam’s sincerity and genuine personality.
He always had time for an interview. He always had a smile at the ready. And it never seemed to be forced.
Wednesday, Elam’s appreciation for his 15 years with the Broncos also flowed naturally. He spent more than ten minutes thanking people who made his years in Denver possible and meaningful.
“You can’t spend 15 years with one organization and not feel a special bond,” he admitted.
Now, Elam turns his attention to other endeavors, including writing books and helping others.
“We (his family) have spent a lot of time up in Alaska and that’s where we’re at right now. We’ve got a home just south of Anchorage. I’m a pilot and I’m heavily involved in some of the Christian ministries up there. We go out to the bush villages and try to do some good out there. I’m (also) heavily involved in some of the Middle East ministries we support. There’s a little bit of everything I really enjoy doing. I’m not going to be bored at all.”
Elam certainly kept things interesting on the field throughout his time with the Broncos. Now that his time to step away from the game has come, he leaves content.
“There’s nothing bitter about it (retiring),” Elam said on Wednesday. “I’m very happy with the career that I had. I gave it everything I’ve got and I feel good about it. This is a dream come true for me to go out like this.”
“Physically, mentally, emotionally, you know when you’re done. It has been an awesome, awesome journey for me,” Elam added.
And for us, too. Thanks for the memories, Jason. You are truly one of a kind.
Where does Elam rank in your list of favorite Broncos? He is certainly near, if not at, the top of my list.
Thanks for reading.
Best,
Mike
Tags: Jason Elam, Retirement
Another class act what an honour it was to watch him play in Bronco Country. He deserves the Hall of Fame kickers are people too. He is number 4 on my list of favorites.
When I first heard the news of Elam’s retirement, I have to admit I had a bit of a tear in my eye. Yet another Bronco great has left the game and it is hard to see. However, I am happy he chose to retire as a Bronco and will always remember his contribution to the Denver Bronco’s.
I hope that the Hall of Fame will eventually start allowing kickers in as I feel that Jason Elam is one of many who deserve the honor. I would have to say that in my opinion he is the fifth or sixth greatest bronco of all time.
Check out this article on Colt McCoy:
http://footballnjunk.wordpress.com/2010/03/31/why-mccoy-will-have-a-better-career-than-bradford-and-clausen/
Not a lot of kickers can come out with 5 seconds left in the game a just nail a FG for the victory. The definition of clutch is Jason Elam, he was like the Elway of kickers. With less than 2 minutes to go I wouldn’t want anyone but Elway controlling the drive, with the game on the line and needing a FG to win it, I wouldn’t want anyone but Elam kicking that ball.
Congrats Elam!!! If you don’t put him in the HOF he’ll come back and “kick” your butts.
Elam’s in my top-3 all-time Broncos, easy! He’s one of the elite all-time NFL kickers, and a cool guy on top of it all. I’m wearing his jersey to work today in honor. We’ll miss you, Jason.
Congratulations to Jason Elam a class act and outstanding person. We are all so proud that you came back to retire as a Bronco. Best of luck with all your future endeavors. It sounds like you are going to do a lot of good in the world. I feel the same as DawktorDoom. He is 3rd on my list as well.
Congrats and glad to see you go before this ridiculous OT rule change. Taking the dramatics away from the likes of your ilk!!!!!
posted by brian_schneider @ April 1, 2010 at 7:45 am
“…he was like the Elway of kickers.” Enough said and well said.
Elam is 2nd on my list of all-time favorite players, right behind you know who. He will be dearly missed but congrats to him on the best career he could’ve had, giving the Broncos 15 years of memories and retiring with his home team of 15 years with such class. I have great admiration and respect for this guy.
Keep the faith Broncos Country…
GO BRONCOS in 2010!!!!
I love Elam, and so glad to see him be able to retire a Bronco. I’m sure he will get the ring of fame soon. Elam is from my home town of Atlanta and went to Parkview H.S. right down the road from where I grew up. He is definitely a home town hero around here. Congratulations Jason!!
Jim Turner, Rich Karlis, & David Treadwell were very good placekickers for the Denver Broncos. No doubt Jason Elam was the best !!
Hmm, 1. Elway 2. TD 3. Shannon Sharpe 4. Atwater 5. Rod Smith 6. Ed Mcaffrey
7. Jason Elam
What a fantasic collection of memories this true great leaves us all. It was an honour to see you Jason.What a agentleman
GO BRONCOS IN 2010