John Elway Jr. is a celebrated figure in American football, renowned for his 16-year tenure as quarterback for the Denver Broncos. His leadership propelled the team to two Super Bowl victories during his playing career. After retiring, Elway maintained his connection with the Broncos, serving in executive roles for 11 years, including general manager. His strategic acumen contributed to a third Super Bowl win for the franchise. Both as a player and executive, Elway's legacy is deeply intertwined with the Broncos' success, making him one of the most influential figures in the team's history.
June 28, 1960: Birth of John Elway
On June 28, 1960, John Albert Elway Jr., American former professional football quarterback, was born. He would go on to dedicate his entire 16-year career to the Denver Broncos.
February 1976: Jack Elway's Coaching Move
In February 1976, Jack Elway, John's father, made a significant career move by joining the coaching staff at the University of Idaho. However, he accepted the head coach position at California State University, Northridge, shortly after, prompting the Elway family to relocate to the San Fernando Valley.
1978: Jack Elway Becomes Head Coach at San Jose State
Following the 1978 season, John Elway's father, Jack, accepted the position of head coach at San Jose State University, further influencing John's athletic journey.
1979: The Legend of the "Elway Cross" Begins
John Elway began his college football career at Stanford University in 1979. His strong throws led to a phenomenon dubbed the "Elway cross," as receivers started using their bodies to catch his passes to avoid injuring their fingers.
1979: Elway's College Football Career Begins
John Elway's journey at Stanford University, spanning from 1979 to 1982, marked the beginning of his legacy in college football, showcasing his skills as a quarterback.
1979: Drafted by the Kansas City Royals
John Elway's talent as a baseball player was recognized in 1979 when he was selected by the Kansas City Royals in the 18th round of the Major League Baseball draft.
1980: Elway Earns Pac-10 Player of the Year
John Elway's exceptional performance on the field earned him the prestigious title of Pac-10 Player of the Year in 1980.
1981: Drafted by the New York Yankees
Highlighting his athletic versatility, John Elway was selected by the New York Yankees in the second round of the 1981 Major League Baseball Draft.
1981: Elway's Continued Success at Stanford
John Elway's performance as quarterback continued to impress during the 1981 season. Despite throwing 20 touchdown passes and ranking seventh in the NCAA, the team struggled to secure a winning record, finishing the year at 4-7.
December 1982: Elway's Refusal to Play for the Colts
In December 1982, John Elway informed the Colts that he did not want to play for the team. He expressed his preference to play on the West Coast or for the Dallas Cowboys or Miami Dolphins. Elway's refusal to join the Colts sparked controversy, but it also led to negotiations between the Colts and other NFL teams interested in acquiring the quarterback.
1982: Craig Morton's Retirement
Craig Morton, the quarterback for the Denver Broncos, retired after the 1982 season.
1982: Elway Leads the Nation in Touchdown Passes
In 1982, during his final year at Stanford, John Elway led the nation with an impressive 24 touchdown passes, further solidifying his reputation as a dominant quarterback.
1982: Elway Joins the Oneonta Yankees
John Elway showcased his baseball skills during the summer of 1982, playing for the Oneonta Yankees, the New York Yankees' short-season affiliate team in the New YorkâPenn League.
1982: "The Play"
John Elway's final collegiate game in 1982, "The Big Game" against Cal, became infamous for "The Play." Despite Elway's efforts, a series of laterals by Cal in the final seconds led to a controversial game-winning touchdown, leaving a bittersweet end to Elway's otherwise impressive college career.
1983: Elway's Debut and Early Career with the Broncos
As a highly anticipated rookie, John Elway made his debut with the Broncos in their season opener against the Pittsburgh Steelers. He was relieved by veteran quarterback Steve DeBerg, who led the team to victory. Elway started later in the season due to a shoulder injury to DeBerg.
1983: The Quarterback Class of 1983
As the first pick in the 1983 NFL Draft, John Elway was drafted by the Baltimore Colts. This draft class, known for its talented quarterbacks, saw Elway traded to the Denver Broncos, where he would cement his legacy.
1983: 1983 NFL Draft
The Baltimore Colts selected John Elway first overall in the 1983 NFL Draft, which was nicknamed the "Quarterback class of 1983." Elway was hesitant about playing for the Colts, who were one of the worst teams in the league at the time.
1984: Marriage to Janet Buchan
John Elway married Janet Buchan, a former Stanford University swimmer, in 1984.
1984: Trade to the Denver Broncos
In May 1984, the Colts traded John Elway to the Denver Broncos in exchange for offensive lineman Chris Hinton, backup quarterback Mark Herrmann, and a first-round pick in the 1984 Draft.
1984: Colts Draft Elway and Trade Negotiations
Despite John Elway's unwillingness to play for them, the Colts used their first overall pick in the 1984 NFL Draft to select him. The Colts then engaged in trade talks with the Denver Broncos.
1985: Steinbrenner's Plans for Elway
George Steinbrenner, the owner of the New York Yankees, had ambitious plans for John Elway, envisioning him as the team's starting right fielder by 1985, recognizing his potential as a baseball player.
1986: The Drive and Super Bowl XXI
John Elway led the Denver Broncos to their first Super Bowl appearance in franchise history after defeating the Cleveland Browns in the AFC Championship game, thanks to a memorable performance in the fourth quarter that became known as "The Drive." The Broncos faced the New York Giants in Super Bowl XXI but lost the game, despite a strong start by Elway.
January 1987: "The Drive"
In a memorable game in January 1987, John Elway demonstrated his resilience and skill by leading the Denver Broncos in a 98-yard drive, tying the game against the Cleveland Browns. This iconic moment in NFL history is now referred to as "The Drive".
1987: NFL MVP and Super Bowl XXII
John Elway had a stellar individual season in 1987, earning NFL Most Valuable Player honors and leading the Broncos to their second consecutive Super Bowl appearance. However, they were defeated by the Washington Redskins in Super Bowl XXII, despite Elway setting a record for the fastest touchdown in Super Bowl history at the time.
1988: Broncos' 8-8 Record
The Denver Broncos finished the 1988 NFL season with an 8-8 record.
1989: Super Bowl XXIV and Continued Pursuit of a Championship
John Elway guided the Broncos to Super Bowl XXIV, their third appearance in four seasons. However, they suffered a lopsided defeat against the San Francisco 49ers. Despite three Super Bowl losses, Elway remained determined to win a championship.
1997: Elway Sells Dealerships to AutoNation
John Elway sold his five auto dealerships, known as John Elway Autos, to AutoNation Inc. in 1997 for a substantial $82.5 million.
1997: Elway Leads Broncos to Super Bowl XXXII Victory
In 1997, despite a ruptured biceps tendon during the preseason, John Elway returned to lead the Denver Broncos to Super Bowl XXXII against the Green Bay Packers. While his performance was statistically underwhelming, the Broncos secured their first Super Bowl victory with a score of 31-24.
1997: Denver Broncos' First Super Bowl Victory
During the 1997 season, John Elway led the Denver Broncos to their first Super Bowl victory, defeating the Green Bay Packers 31-24 in Super Bowl XXXII, marking a turning point for the team after a period of decline.
1998: Elway Earns Super Bowl XXXIII MVP in Final Season
John Elway capped off his final season in 1998 by leading the Broncos to a second consecutive Super Bowl victory. In Super Bowl XXXIII against the Atlanta Falcons, he earned MVP honors with 336 passing yards, one passing touchdown, and one rushing touchdown, contributing to the Broncos' 34-19 win.
May 2, 1999: John Elway Announces Retirement
On May 2, 1999, at 38 years old, John Elway announced his retirement from professional football after a remarkable career.
September 13, 1999: Broncos Retire Elway's Number 7 Jersey
On September 13, 1999, the Denver Broncos honored John Elway by retiring his number 7 jersey during a Monday Night Football game. The ceremony took place at halftime against the Miami Dolphins, and Elway was also inducted into the Denver Broncos Ring of Fame that same evening.
1999: Elway's Final Game: The 1999 Pro Bowl
In 1999, John Elway participated in his last game as a professional football player, which was the Pro Bowl.
1999: Elway's Retirement
In 1999, John Elway retired from professional football. At the time, he held the record for most victories by a starting quarterback and was statistically the second most prolific passer in NFL history.
2000: Elway Joins College Football Hall of Fame
John Elway's impact on football extended to the collegiate level, earning him a place in the College Football Hall of Fame in 2000.
2000: Elway's Induction into the College Football Hall of Fame
In 2000, John Elway was honored with an induction into the College Football Hall of Fame, a testament to his impact on the sport during his time at Stanford University.
2000: Elway's Induction into the College Football Hall of Fame
In recognition of his accomplishments as a college athlete, John Elway was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 2000.
2002: Separation from Janet Buchan
John Elway and his wife, Janet Buchan, separated in 2002.
2002: Death of Twin Sister and Father
In a tragic turn of events in 2002, John Elway lost his twin sister, Jana, to lung cancer at the age of 42. The year prior, his father, Jack, passed away from an apparent heart attack.
2003: Divorce from Janet Buchan
John Elway and Janet Buchan finalized their divorce in 2003.
August 8, 2004: Elway Inducted into Pro Football Hall of Fame
In recognition of his remarkable career, John Elway was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame on August 8, 2004. Notably, he was elected in his first year of eligibility, with the honor of being presented by his eldest daughter, Jessica.
2004: Elway Diagnosed with Dupuytren's Contracture
In 2004, John Elway received a diagnosis of Dupuytren's contracture. He later became part of a national awareness campaign to increase understanding and awareness of this condition.
2004: Elway's Induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame
In 2004, John Elway was honored for his contributions to professional football with an induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame.
2005: Elway Ranked Third Among Greatest Quarterbacks
In 2005, TSN acknowledged John Elway's legacy as a quarterback by ranking him third on their list of the 50 Greatest Quarterbacks, only behind the legendary Johnny Unitas and Joe Montana.
2005: Meeting Paige Green
John Elway met Paige Green, a former Oakland Raiders cheerleader, at a celebrity golf tournament hosted by Marcus Allen in Los Angeles in 2005.
December 2006: Elway Ends Licensing Agreement with AutoNation
In December 2006, John Elway made a significant business decision by ending his nine-year licensing agreement with AutoNation. This move allowed him to potentially re-enter the automotive industry under his own brand.
February 2007: Elway Elected Chairman of AFL's Executive Committee
In February 2007, John Elway's leadership within the Arena Football League was further recognized as he was elected chairman of the AFL's executive committee.
2007: Elway Ranked Among ESPN's Top College Football Players
ESPN recognized John Elway's legacy as a college football player in 2007, ranking him #15 on their list of the Top 25 Players In College Football History.
September 2008: Engagement to Paige Green
John Elway and Paige Green got engaged in Italy in September 2008.
September 2008: Elway Becomes OpenSports.com Spokesperson
In September 2008, John Elway took on the role of spokesperson for OpenSports.com, leveraging his fame and influence to promote the platform.
November 2008: Elway Undergoes and Endorses LASIK Surgery
In November 2008, John Elway underwent LASIK eye surgery and subsequently became an endorser of Icon LASIK in the Denver area, sharing his positive experience with the procedure.
August 4, 2009: Arena Football League Announces Indefinite Suspension
On August 4, 2009, the Arena Football League (AFL) made the difficult decision to announce an indefinite suspension of operations. John Elway, as one of the 17 remaining franchise owners, participated in the vote that led to this suspension.
August 2009: Marriage to Paige Green
John Elway married Paige Green in August 2009.
December 2010: Elway Expresses Interest in Broncos Executive Role
Following a dinner with Broncos owner Pat Bowlen in December 2010, John Elway publicly expressed his interest in taking on a top football executive position with the team. However, he clarified that he was not interested in being a head coach or general manager at that time.
January 5, 2011: Elway Appointed Broncos General Manager
On January 5, 2011, John Elway officially returned to the Denver Broncos, this time in a management capacity, as he was named general manager and executive vice president of football operations. He had the final say in all football matters.
2012: Elway Signs Peyton Manning
In a significant move for the Denver Broncos, John Elway, as general manager, signed free agent quarterback Peyton Manning in 2012 after his release from the Indianapolis Colts. This acquisition marked the beginning of a successful period for the Broncos.
2014: Elway Acquires Cadillac Franchise
Expanding his automotive business portfolio, John Elway acquired a Cadillac franchise from Sonic Automotive in 2014.
2014: Broncos Make Roster Changes and Part Ways with Coach Fox
Following a divisional playoff loss to the Indianapolis Colts in 2014, John Elway made significant changes to the Broncos' roster, including signing DeMarcus Ware, Aqib Talib, and T. J. Ward. He also made a coaching change, dismissing John Fox, despite four divisional championships in four years.
February 2015: Tom Brady Breaks Elway's Super Bowl Start Record
In February 2015, Tom Brady, quarterback for the New England Patriots, surpassed John Elway's record by starting in his fifth Super Bowl game (Super Bowl XLIX).
2015: Elway Hires Gary Kubiak as Head Coach
In 2015, John Elway appointed Gary Kubiak, his former backup quarterback and former Broncos offensive coordinator, as the new head coach for the Denver Broncos.
2015: Broncos' Super Bowl Appearance and Loss
Under John Elway's management, the Denver Broncos reached Super Bowl XLVIII in 2015, culminating a season that saw them win the AFC Championship. However, they suffered a significant defeat against the Seattle Seahawks with a final score of 43-8.
February 7, 2016: Elway Wins Super Bowl 50 as Broncos' Executive
On February 7, 2016, John Elway achieved a significant milestone by winning his first Super Bowl as an executive. As the Denver Broncos' Executive VP/GM, he witnessed his team's victory over the Carolina Panthers in Super Bowl 50 with a score of 24-10. This victory marked his third Super Bowl win as part of the Broncos franchise, adding to his two Super Bowl victories as the team's quarterback.
2017: Elway Holds Numerous Broncos Franchise Records
By the 2017 NFL off-season, John Elway held a remarkable 33 franchise records with the Denver Broncos, a testament to his impact on the team.
2017: Elway Receives Mizel Institute Award
In 2017, John Elway's philanthropic contributions to the Denver community and the state of Colorado were recognized when he was honored with the Mizel Institute Award.
November 2020: Elway Tests Positive for COVID-19
In November 2020, John Elway tested positive for COVID-19, leading to his temporary absence from the team. He returned to his duties on November 12 after recovering.
February 2022: Outside Consultant for the Broncos
In February 2022, John Elway took on a new role as an outside consultant reporting directly to George Paton.
April 2023: End of Official Role with the Broncos
By April 2023, John Elway's contractual affiliation with the Denver Broncos ended, marking the conclusion of his official role with the club.