The former quarterback led the team to its first Super Bowl and was a celebrated figure in NFL history
Category: Sports
ENGLEWOOD, Colo. — The Denver Broncos mourn the loss of Craig Morton, a Ring of Famer and former quarterback who led the team to its first Super Bowl appearance. Morton passed away on May 9, 2026, at the age of 83, as confirmed by his family.
Morton spent six seasons with the Broncos from 1977 to 1982. He was instrumental in guiding Denver to its first playoff appearance and a berth in Super Bowl XII. In the 1977 season, he led the Broncos to an impressive 12-2 record, achieving home playoff victories against the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Oakland Raiders. His exceptional performance during that season earned him multiple accolades, including the AFC's Offensive Player of the Year, the Sporting News Player of the Year, and the PFWA Comeback Player of the Year. He was also named the NFL UPI MVP for the same year.
“Craig Morton is unbelievable,” said Haven Moses, a fellow Ring of Famer, following the Broncos' first AFC Championship victory, as reported in a 1978 New York Times article. “To me, he's the most valuable player in the National Football League this year.” Morton’s determination was evident when he played through a hip injury in the AFC Championship Game, even spending days in the hospital before the match against the Raiders.
During his Broncos career, Morton led the team to two division titles and secured three playoff berths. He retired with franchise records that included the most passing yards (11,895), passing touchdowns (74), pass attempts (1,594), and completions (907). His 41 regular-season wins still rank as the third most in the team's history.
Inducted into the Denver Broncos Ring of Fame in 1988, Morton was also honored by the Colorado Sports Hall of Fame two years prior, in 1986. Before joining the Broncos, he played for the Dallas Cowboys from 1965 to 1974, where he threw for over 80 touchdowns and accumulated more than 10,000 yards. He later played for the New York Giants before being acquired by the Broncos through a trade.
In total, Morton’s NFL career saw him throw for 183 touchdowns and 27,908 yards, winning 81 regular-season games. He was drafted as the fifth-overall pick in the 1965 NFL Draft after a standout collegiate career at the University of California, where he also played baseball. Morton was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1992.
Morton passed away surrounded by his family in Mill Valley, California. He is survived by his wife, Kym; his sister; his children; and his grandchildren.
Morton’s legacy extends beyond his statistics and awards. He was a key figure during a formative time in Broncos history, helping to establish the team as a competitive force in the NFL. His leadership and resilience set a standard for future generations of players in the franchise. The 1977 season remains a landmark year for the Broncos, as it marked their first foray into the playoffs and showcased Morton’s talent and determination on the field.
His contributions to the Broncos were not just statistical but also emotional, inspiring teammates and fans alike. The impact of his leadership during challenging games, particularly in the playoffs, helped to solidify his reputation as a player who could perform under pressure.
Morton’s transition from college football to the NFL was marked by high expectations, and he lived up to them with a successful career. His induction into various halls of fame reflects the respect he earned throughout his career, both as a player and as a person who contributed to the sport.
The Broncos organization plans to honor Morton’s memory in the coming weeks, with tributes expected at upcoming games and events. His legacy will continue to be celebrated by fans who cherished his contributions to the team and the sport. As the Broncos look to the future, they will carry forward the spirit and determination that Morton exemplified during his time with the franchise.
As the NFL community reflects on Morton’s life, his influence on the game and the Broncos will undoubtedly be remembered. The team is set to hold a memorial event later this month, allowing fans and former teammates to pay their respects to a player who shaped the history of the franchise.