Demaryius Thomas will be inducted posthumously into the Broncos’ Ring of Fame, becoming the 38th member during the team’s Week 7 home game on October 19 against the New York Giants. This honor comes in his first year of eligibility and coincides with the 10-year reunion of the Broncos’ Super Bowl 50 team, where he was a vital contributor.
Thomas, who passed away unexpectedly in 2021 at the age of 33 due to complications from a seizure, left a lasting legacy as one of the top three wide receivers in Broncos history. During his career, particularly from 2012 to 2015, he averaged an impressive 101 receptions, 1,447 yards, and 10 touchdowns per season, placing him among the NFL’s elite wide receivers of that period. Even after the retirement of Peyton Manning, Thomas continued to produce remarkable performances, accumulating 90 receptions and over 1,000 yards in the 2016 season.
Known for his explosive plays, he was instrumental in a record-setting offense in 2013 that scored 606 points and threw 55 touchdown passes—records that endure even as the league expanded to a 17-game season in 2021. One of his most memorable moments came in the 2011 AFC wild-card playoff game when he caught an 80-yard touchdown pass in overtime from quarterback Tim Tebow, securing a thrilling victory over the Pittsburgh Steelers.
Thomas’ career statistics include 9,055 receiving yards and 60 touchdown receptions, which ranks him second and third in franchise history, respectively. He was known not only for his athletic prowess but also for his character; he was deeply involved in community outreach, including playing Santa Claus for children in need.
His journey from facing adversity as a child to achieving greatness in the NFL resonates with many fans. Thomas’ generous spirit continues to inspire through initiatives like the scholarship established in his honor, which supports high school players overcoming challenges.
As his family and fans prepare for the induction ceremony, there is a collective hope that Thomas’ memory will live on in the hearts of Broncos supporters for generations to come. His legacy as a player and a person exemplifies the best of what it means to be a Denver Bronco.