The Denver Broncos just made a great offseason decision that will not directly affect their roster or coaching staff for the upcoming season.
Demaryius Thomas elected to Broncos Ring of Fame
According to the organization, the Broncos are electing Demaryius Thomas to the Denver Broncos Ring of Fame in his first year of eligibility.
Thomas is the 38th Ring of Famer — and 13th first-ballot selection — in franchise history and will be posthumously inducted during halftime of the Broncos' Week 7 game against the Giants on Sunday, Oct. 19 during Alumni Weekend. The weekend will also feature a celebration honoring the 10th anniversary of the Broncos' Super Bowl 50 championship team. -- Denver Broncos
Thomas passed away unexpectedly during December of 2021 at just 33 years old.
The long-time Broncos wideout was ultra-productive during his tenure in Denver. Thomas ranks second in team history in career receiving yards (9,055) and receiving touchdowns (60). He is also in third for most career receptions (665). The WR also holds Denver's single-season (1,619 yards) and single-game (226 yards) receiving records for the franchise.
In ten postseason starts, Thomas caught 53 passes for 759 receiving yards and six touchdowns. He also ranks first in franchise history for postseason receptions in a career.
All that being said, Thomas was always held in high regard off the football field. He was often lauded as a leader in the locker room and highly respected by his coaches and teammates.
"Demaryius Thomas' election to the Denver Broncos Ring of Fame — in his first year of eligibility — is a testament to the indelible mark he left on our organization and community," Owners Greg Penner and Carrie Walton Penner said in a statement. "One of the most beloved players and greatest wide receivers in franchise history, Demaryius inspired our fans with breathtaking athleticism, record-setting performances and a joyful, infectious spirit. While we wish 'D.T.' was with us to celebrate this special moment, we look forward to honoring Demaryius alongside his Super Bowl 50 teammates during an unforgettable Alumni Weekend." -- Denver Broncos
“For Demaryius and our family, this is a dream come true. ... I know D.T. is smiling in heaven with this exciting news." -- Katina Smith, Thomas' mother via Broncos
This is another way to celebrate Thomas' impact on football and the Broncos franchise. Calling this well-deserved is an understatement.
