Honoring the Orange Crush: Governor Polis, Fans, State Leaders, Broncos Alumni Celebrate Randy Gradishar, Denver Broncos’ Newest Hall of Famer

DENVER - Today, Governor Polis, Denver Mayor Mike Johnston, Denver Broncos, and fans celebrated Randy Gradishar, the Denver Broncos’ newest Pro Football Hall of Famer. In a celebration that brought together all of Broncos Nation including the Stampede Drumline, Miles the Mascot, Broncos Alumni, and fans, Governor Polis declared May 3, 2024, as Randy Gradishar Day.

“Today is a day Broncos Nation will never forget! Randy was welcomed in Coloradans’ homes each week as a pillar of the Broncos, bringing joy and pride to fans of all ages with every game. I am thrilled to pronounce today as Randy Gradishar Day to ensure Randy’s legacy of excellence is remembered by Coloradans for generations to come, and to celebrate the Denver Broncos’ newest Hall of Famer. Way to go Randy!” said Governor Polis.

Governor Polis speaks at a podium on the steps of the state capitol building during an event honoring Randy Gradishar.

Randy Gradishar, Bronco Pro Football Hall of Famer speaks to a crowd of fans on the steps of the state capitol.

Broncos President Damani Leech, Denver Mayor Mike Johnston, Randy Gradishar, his wife beth, Governor Polis, Broncos Cheerleaders, and Miles the mascot post on the steps while holding a Gradishar jersey.

“I would like to thank Governor Polis and his office, the Denver Broncos and my teammates, Phil Long Enterprise and Jay Cimino, my coaches, and all of my fans for making this day possible,” said Gradishar Pro Football Hall of Famer. “Having today proclaimed in honor of me, along with my election into the Pro Football Hall of Fame, I consider to be a lifetime achievement.” Gradishar continued.

Gradishar is the 14th Bronco, and the seventh defender, to gain this historic title. Gradishar is one of 10 linebackers in NFL history with at least seven Pro Bowls, 20 interceptions, and 13 fumble recoveries. Even before being elected into the Pro Football Hall of Fame, Gradishar was famous among Broncos fans for his leadership of the famous “Orange Crush” defense.

Gradishar made Broncos history with a franchise-high 2,049 tackles, 19.5 sacks, 20 interceptions, 13 fumble recoveries, and four defensive touchdowns. He also participated in several Goodwill Tours across the globe to support US troops abroad.

Read the Governor’s Proclamation celebrating Randy Gradishar and the many contributions he has made to the Denver Broncos and Colorado.

###