QB John Elway went to five Superbowls and won two under Broncos’ owner Pat Bowlen. As an executive for the company, Elway is trying to win one more with QB Peyton Manning.
Denver Broncos owner Pat Bowlen has stepped down as owner of the team due to health concerns and will no longer take part in football operations, according to a statement by the team.
Bowlen has been battling Alzheimer’s disease, a degenerative brain disorder, and has been reducing his own role with the team for the last few years as the disease has progressed. The Broncos statement indicated that Bowlen will use the time away from the team to focus on his health.
“The Broncos are very saddened that Mr. Bowlen is no longer able to be part of the team’s daily operations due to his condition,” the statement said. “We continue to offer our full support, compassion and respect to ‘Mr. B,’ who has faced Alzheimer’s disease with such dignity and strength.”
Control of the team will go to team president Joe Ellis. Bowlen is unlikely to sell the team since he established a family trust to ensure ownership will go to his family.
“As Mr. Bowlen focuses on his health, the Broncos have announced changes to their leadership structure that will ensure the long-term stability of the franchise.”
Pat Bowlen’s Broncos have been to six Superbowls since he took over ownership of the team in 1984 – 5 with Hall of Fame QB John Elway and once with QB Peyton Manning this past year. Elway won the team’s two Superbowls in 1997 and 1998. Bowlen’s six Superbowl appearances are the most of any owner in NFL history.
John Elway was hired as the Broncos’ Executive Vice President of Football Operations in 2011. He was promoted to General Manager earlier this year.
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