The Lead

While all eyes have been on rebuilding the Broncos roster to set the team up for success on the field this season, several individuals have been diligently working behind the scenes to elevate the franchise to the next level.

President Damani Leech has helped spearhead many of these efforts, and Ryan McFadden of The Denver Post recently took a closer look at Leech’s journey to the Broncos, the impact he has made since his arrival and his future plans for the organization.

"Since Leech was hired in August 2022, succeeding Joe Ellis after seven years in the league office, he's been at the forefront of the Walton-Penner ownership group's efforts to rebuild the Broncos brand," McFadden wrote. "From new uniforms and a soon-to-be revamped training facility to stadium upgrades and exploring the possibility of a new one, Leech is now an agent of change. And he couldn't be more comfortable."

Leech, who played college football at Princeton, has always embraced new challenges. Although he arrived at Princeton as a wide receiver, he was quickly converted to a defensive back, and he thrived. A three-time first-team All-Ivy League selection, Leech's willingness to embrace change led him all the way to the Broncos, where he has made a long list of positive impacts in his first two years on the job.

Leech has described his role as a "1,000-piece puzzle that's constantly changing," with new projects and new challenges constantly arising.

McFadden wrote: "Change is hard but needed, said Leech. Even more so when you're talking about a historic NFL franchise, rooted in tradition. That's why Leech encourages his staff to be thoughtful about what was done in the past while understanding that it's important to explore new ways to keep fans entertained."

The responsibility is one that Leech does not take lightly.

"It's our shared responsibility to not take for granted the great fan base we have," Leech said. "To have over 100,000 people on the season-ticket waiting list [and] 98% season-ticket renewals, it would be easy to kick your feet up and say 'We're good.' But no, we cannot do that."

Leech remains committed to adapting and evolving with the fan base at the center of his focus. His next big undertaking will involve making decisions about the future of Denver's stadium, a project that will once again require the eagerness and adaptability that have been hallmarks of Leech's career.

"It's been energizing to come into this role, almost two years ago, and hit the ground running," Leech said. "We talk about being the best team to cheer for, play for and work for, and live in that every day."

For more of McFadden's profile of Leech, click here.