Denver Broncos Franchise Legend Stepping Away

A Denver Broncos icon is riding off into the sunset yet again. Chris Tommason of the Denver Gazette reports John Elway's contract as a consultant with the team has expired. The Hall of Fame quarterback will no longer work with the team in an official capacity.

John Elway, the most iconic figure in #Broncos history, no longer has any contractual role with the team. His contract ran out last month after he had been a consultant for a year. Won two Super Bowls as a player and one as a GM. https://t.co/xhjQW2WH9w
— Chris Tomasson (@christomasson) April 5, 2023

“I told Greg (Penner) I’d be happy to be a resource for him and help in any way that I can," Elway said. "I just wanted the flexibility. They’re in great hands. I still plan on being around to watch and be a resource for Greg or George (Paton), if I can."

Elway is a franchise legend in Denver. He won two Super Bowls and played in three more for the Broncos after becoming their first overall pick in the 1983 NFL Draft. He remains the team's all-time leading passer.

Elway rejoined the team in an executive capacity in 2011. As the Executive VP of Football Operations and the team's defacto GM, Elway facilitated the acquisition of quarterback Peyton Manning and was the architect of a renaissance for the team that included two more Super Bowl appearances and a win following the 2015 season.

Elway receded into a reduced role following the 2020 season. He'll likely remain a respected voice and source of wisdom within the organization for years to come, but given the team's recent change in ownership, it makes sense for Elway to take another step back and allow the team to forge a new path.