ENGLEWOOD, Colo. — In the span of a few seconds, Case Keenum's name became synonymous with the "Minneapolis Miracle."
His deep throw to Stefon Diggs helped the Vikings pull off the unlikeliest of wins against the New Orleans Saints in the Divisional Round of this year's playoffs, and Keenum has heard the resulting excitement in the months that have followed.
"Everybody I've talked to since the season ended — whether I've known them my whole life or just met them — they immediately go to where they were at when the Minneapolis Miracle happened," Keenum told BroncosTV's Phil Milani on Thursday. "It's a great connection to have with a lot of people."
But as he spent his first moments at UCHealth Training Center, Keenum made it clear he is ready to turn his attention to the future.
"To be honest, I'm ready to make some more memories," Keenum said. "I got real close to the big game. I got a taste of what it could be like. [It was] my first real, live playoff atmosphere [and] game situation. I'm hungry. I'm not satisfied with where we got to. I want more. So I'm ready to hit the ground running, and I'm ready for more."
He began to make those memories Thursday as a slew of Broncos — some current and one former — reached out to offer their congratulations.
"I think my phone is still blowing up," Keenum said. "It's about 10 [current teammates] so far. I mean Von was one of the first ones that reached out, and I'm really glad that we're wearing the same color jersey. And then, actually, Peyton [Manning] reached out this morning. It's exciting. This is such a cool, cool organization to be a part of, and I'm going to be very proud to represent Broncos Country every week."
The call from Manning was particularly meaningful to the Broncos' newest quarterback.
"It means a lot," Keenum said. "I think that's just part of what it means to be a quarterback around here and be a part of this Denver Broncos community. It's exciting. I mean, it's been a whirlwind the last couple days, but it's still all settling in."
As for Miller, Keenum said he was glad to now have the elite pass rusher on his side.
"He's going to help me get the ball out quick [at training camp]," Keenum said. "I'm also excited about my offensive line. I really am. Those guys have reached out, too. I've watched a lot of them on tape and I'm excited to get to know those guys and start forming chemistry with those guys, too."
