ENGLEWOOD, Colo. — As former star receiver Demaryius Thomas enters retirement, he leaves behind a legacy with the Broncos that firmly places him among the team's all-time greats.
Thomas' career featured an array of individual achievements — five Pro Bowl selections, placement at or near the top of several franchise records — and he played a key role in helping the Broncos reach significant team goals during his nine years in Denver.
For all these reasons and so many more, Thomas remains a beloved former Bronco to those within the organization and outside it.
In a statement, President of Football Operations John Elway expressed his admiration and gratitude as he looked back on Thomas' talent as a player and his contributions to Denver as a person.
"Demaryius had an incredible NFL career and was such a big part of everything we accomplished during his many years as a Bronco," Elway said. "D.T. was the complete package as a wide receiver, growing into one of the very best at his position. The combination of his size, speed, strength and athleticism was unmatched. Demaryius' remarkable consistency and production were instrumental in our offense setting historic records and our team winning a lot of games, including two AFC Championships and Super Bowl 50.
"Equally as impressive as his many catches, big plays and touchdowns was the fact he didn't miss a game for nearly seven years in a row. You could always count on D.T. He belongs among the greatest players in Broncos history for what he's meant to this organization on the field and out in the community. We appreciate everything Demaryius did for us and congratulate him on his retirement from the NFL."
President and CEO Joe Ellis conveyed similar reflections, also noting Thomas' effect in the community, as well as his role in many of the team's most memorable moments in recent history.
"Demaryius Thomas was a spectacular player for the Denver Broncos," Ellis said. "For as humble and soft-spoken as Demaryius was during his nine years with our organization, you would have never known he was such a dominant player in our league. D.T. was an integral part of one of the greatest offenses of all-time, putting up record-setting numbers and giving Broncos fans so many unforgettable memories. I've never heard Empower Field at Mile High louder than his game-winning touchdown in overtime against the Steelers in the playoffs.
"His many interactions giving back in the community — and especially with kids — were genuine and impactful. He will always hold a special place in Broncos history as one of the greatest wide receivers to ever play for this franchise. We're proud to call Demaryius a 'Bronco for Life.' Our organization congratulates Demaryius on a remarkable career and looks forward to celebrating all that he's meant to the Denver Broncos."
