John Elway is a former NFL quarterback widely regarded as one of the greatest ever to play the position. He spent his 16-year NFL career with the Denver Broncos from 1983 to 1998. Here are some highlights and notable moments from John Elway’s illustrious career:
“The Drive” (1986 AFC Championship Game): One of the most famous moments in NFL history, Elway led the Broncos on a 98-yard game-tying touchdown drive in the waning minutes of the 1986 AFC Championship Game against the Cleveland Browns. The Broncos won in overtime, and this drive is often cited as one of Elway’s greatest moments.
Back-to-Back Super Bowl Wins (1997 and 1998): Elway’s late-career success included winning Super Bowl titles in his final two seasons, Super Bowl XXXII and Super Bowl XXXIII. These victories cemented his legacy as one of the greatest quarterbacks in NFL history.
Elway’s Super Bowl MVP Performance (Super Bowl XXXIII): In his final NFL game, Elway earned the Super Bowl MVP award by throwing for 336 yards and one touchdown, leading the Broncos to a 34-19 victory over the Atlanta Falcons.
Pro Football Hall of Fame: John Elway was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2004, recognizing his outstanding career and contributions to football.
Record-Breaking Passing Yards: Elway retired as the NFL’s all-time leader in career passing yards with 51,475, a record that stood for several years.
9 Pro Bowl Selections: Elway was selected to nine Pro Bowls during his career, showcasing his consistency and excellence as a quarterback.
Iconic Helicopter Play (Super Bowl XXXII): In a crucial moment of Super Bowl XXXII, Elway scrambled for a first down and was hit by Green Bay Packers defenders, causing him to spin mid-air like a helicopter. This play demonstrated Elway’s determination and willingness to put his body on the line for his team.
Leadership and Comeback Wins: Elway was known for his leadership on the field and his ability to engineer comeback victories. He led the Broncos to numerous come-from-behind wins throughout his career.
All-Decade Teams: He was named to the NFL’s 1980s and 1990s All-Decade Teams, further solidifying his status as one of the NFL’s greatest quarterbacks.
The “Mile High Salute”: Elway’s signature celebration, known as the “Mile High Salute,” involved him acknowledging Broncos fans by giving a military-style salute after a touchdown or victory.
John Elway’s career was marked by his strong arm, mobility, leadership, and ability to perform under pressure. His impact on the Denver Broncos and the NFL is enduring, and he remains a beloved figure in American football.