The Denver Broncos are staying local, and the historic decision has led to an incredible outpouring of support from both current and former franchise figures. Six-time Pro Bowl and three-time All-Pro former Broncos edge defender Karl Mecklenburg is among them.
Mecklenburg’s support comes on the heels of the announcement that the Broncos are targeting Burnham Yard for the site of their new, retractable-roof stadium.
They hope to open their new home for the 2031 season.
Legendary Bronco Karl Mecklenburg Praises Ownership
GettyKarl Mecklenburg #77 of the Denver Broncos runs with the ball during a game against the Arizona Cardinals.
Mecklenburg, a member of the Broncos’ Ring of Honor, where he was inducted in 2001, noted uncertainty if fans were “
“I’m so proud to be a Bronco today!” Mecklenburg posted on X on September 9. “The Walton Penner Group never mentioned the possibility of leaving Colorado but as owners of the franchise they could have. Their commitment to Bronco Country, to the team, and to building the premier sports franchise in the country is inspiring. They’re driven to compete on and off the field and are investing in making it happen.”
Mecklenburg added, “Building a new stadium isn’t charity. It’s a smart business move.”
Mecklenburg noted that stadium revenue is not part of the collective sharing that NFL teams do, and the Broncos’ owners are funding their new digs privately, a route that has drawn attention.
“They not only say they want to win but have shown their commitment repeatedly and consistently since walking in the door,” Mecklenburg posted about the Broncos’ owners, who took control in 2022. “Thanks to WPG, there will be Super Bowls hosted in Denver and more Super Bowls won by our Broncos. Thanks Walton Penner Group. Go Broncos!”
Mecklenburg’s support aligns with the sentiments of current players.
Bo Nix, Current Broncos Weigh In on New Stadium
GettyBo Nix #10 of the Denver Broncos warms up before facing the Tennessee Titans.
The Broncos have never played in a dome, even one that retracts, making the new stadium a historic move that has plenty of current players, including quarterback Bo Nix, excited.
“Let’s GO,” Nix exclaimed in a post on X on September 9 as one of several players to share the team’s stadium hype video. “What an exciting opportunity for our team, our fans and this city. Thank you Greg and Carrie Penner for your vision and leadership. Can’t wait!”
Cornerback and reigning Defensive Player of the Year Pat Surtain II also chimed in.
“I can’t wait to see what this brings in the future!” Surtain posted on X on September 9. “Love seeing Greg and Carrie continue to invest in this team and city!”
“Huge news!” recently minted outside linebacker Nik Bonitto said in a post following the news.
“Greg and Carrie Penner continue to invest in our team and city!”
Second-team All-Pro defensive lineman Zach Allen, another recently extended player, posted that the decision “is awesome! Love this investment from Greg and Carrie and so excited to keep playing in the best city for the best fans!”
Broncos Getting Love Inside & Outside of Franchise
GettyBroncos head coach Sean Payton poses with general manager George Paton, owners Carrie Walton Penner and Condoleezza Rice, and owner and CEO Greg Penner during a press conference.
Broncos president Damani Leech also professed his appreciation for the Walton-Penner group’s impact since assuming control three years ago.
“Greg & Carrie have been the driving force behind this unprecedented investment in our community and #BroncosCountry,” Leech noted in his post. “Along with the @CityofDenver and @StateofColorado we have a lot of hard work ahead of to make this dream become a reality in 2031!
“Go Broncos!”
The love for the Broncos’ stadium plans has not stopped with those who have existing or even previous direct ties to the franchise, with The Athletic’s James Palmer posting on X, “This is great for our city.”
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