This is Hall of Fame weekend in the National Football League, the kickoff event of the new season and the time when all-time greats are honored for their contributions to the game.  Whether large or small, the annual Pro Football Hall of Fame class always includes the game’s greats, and the ceremonies in Canton never are less than memorable.

All Bronco fans are aware that quarterback John Elway is the only Bronco in the Hall of Fame, in terms of players who made their marks in Denver.  And it is no great secret that many of us have frequently stated frustration with that fact.

However, there are others with Denver connections in the Hall, including cornerback Willie Brown, who started his pro career as a Bronco, and running back Tony Dorsett, the Dallas great who ended his career in the Mile High City.

But there is another with a big Denver connection, and he was a man I was honored to work for, and will always be proud to have called him a friend.