DENVER — On Sunday afternoon, the orange-clad Broncos faithful roared as the Seattle Seahawks tried to attempt a late-game comeback.
A day after the Broncos held on to start the season 1-0, Von Miller and Case Keenum were back where 76,000-plus members of Broncos Country turned a tight game into a win.
On Monday, though, the two players were at Broncos Stadium at Mile High to return the favor to the Denver community. They joined more than 40 of their teammates at the fourth annual Taste of the Broncos presented by King Soopers, which benefits the Food Bank of the Rockies and Denver Broncos Charities.
"[We'll take] any chance we get to come back and give back a little bit," Keenum said. "You guys saw what it was like on Sunday in that stadium right there. It's incredible. That's why we're here. We're the Denver Broncos. We're part of the community and to have them come and show the support like they did just the entire game, [it's nice] to come back and be able to eat really good food. It's a really good opportunity."
Keenum, who spent time at ChoLon's booth interacting with fans and preparing Philly cheesesteak wontons, then turned back for another sample.
"It was killer, man," Keenum said. "It was unbelievable. I'm going to go back for more."
Linebacker Todd Davis was another player who enjoyed the samples that ranged from ribs to ice cream to grilled octopus.
"There's a lot of great food here to try," Davis said, "and getting to interact with the fans after a big win, it's fun for us."
Cornerback Chris Harris Jr., Ring of Famer Billy Thompson and President of Football Operations/GM John Elway kicked off those interactions during a VIP session at the beginning of the event. The VIP ticket holders were able to sample various appetizers and see the Broncos' locker room.
They also got the chance to visit with Harris and hear Elway's thoughts on a variety of topics that ranged from Sunday's season-opening win to what food he makes best.
"I'm a good barbecuer," Elway said. "I get the Elway steaks, put the rub on that and then go home and cook it out in the backyard.
"I'm a ribeye guy. I love ribeye. I like the taste of the steak, so the ribeye's my favorite."
There were plenty of options on the Sports Legends Mall for those who prefer something other than steak, but Monday's event was about more than the free samples, live music and good weather.
"Case hit it right on the head," Miller said. "It's extremely important to support the community that supports us. Taste of the Broncos, the fourth annual one, it's been [a good fundraiser] for us. There's a lot of great food, as well. Great event with great people, and plus you get to spend it with your teammates."
And after a 27-24 win over Seattle, the event must be even better. Right, Von?
"Everything's always better after a win."
