Denver Broncos to Honor Late Star Demaryius Thomas with Induction into Team’s Prestigious Ring of Fame
June 2, 2025 | Denver, CO
In a heartfelt announcement that resonated deeply with fans, former teammates, and the broader NFL community, the Denver Broncos have confirmed that wide receiver Demaryius Thomas will be inducted into the team’s Ring of Fame—one of the highest honors bestowed upon a player in franchise history. The late Thomas, affectionately known as “DT” throughout Broncos Country, will become the 36th member to receive the prestigious honor, posthumously joining the ranks of Broncos legends such as John Elway, Shannon Sharpe, Terrell Davis, and Steve Atwater.
The announcement was made on Monday morning via the Broncos’ official social media channels, accompanied by a photo tribute and the simple yet powerful caption: “Forever a Bronco. Forever in our hearts. #LLDT”—an abbreviation for “Long Live Demaryius Thomas.”
As the news spread, a wave of emotion swept across the football world. For many, this recognition not only cements Thomas’ legacy on the field but serves as a tribute to the impact he made off it.
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From Humble Beginnings to NFL Stardom
Born on Christmas Day in 1987 in Montrose, Georgia, Demaryius Antwon Thomas had a journey to the NFL that was anything but easy. Raised by his aunt and uncle after his mother and grandmother were incarcerated when he was a child, Thomas faced adversity early in life. Despite the hardship, he remained focused, resilient, and determined to make something of himself.
He would go on to star at Georgia Tech, where he played in a run-heavy offense but still managed to flash elite receiving skills and athleticism. His size, speed, and strength made him a nightmare for defenders and a top draft prospect. The Broncos selected him with the 22nd overall pick in the 2010 NFL Draft—the first wide receiver taken that year.
While his rookie season was slowed by injuries, Thomas eventually emerged as one of the league’s most dominant wideouts, especially during the Peyton Manning era in Denver.
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A Career Defined by Greatness
From 2012 to 2016, Thomas produced five consecutive 1,000-yard receiving seasons and made four straight Pro Bowls. In 2014, he posted a career-high 1,619 receiving yards—still a Broncos franchise record for a single season. He was known for his physicality, crisp route-running, and explosive yards after the catch. Whether hauling in a deep ball from Manning or breaking tackles on a bubble screen, Thomas brought electricity to the field every Sunday.
But perhaps no moment better encapsulated his impact than the 2011 AFC Wild Card Game against the Pittsburgh Steelers. In one of the most iconic plays in franchise history, Thomas caught an 80-yard touchdown pass from Tim Tebow on the first play of overtime, sending Mile High Stadium into a frenzy and sealing a stunning playoff victory. That walk-off touchdown remains one of the most replayed and beloved moments in modern Broncos lore.
Over nine seasons in Denver, Thomas recorded 665 receptions for 9,055 yards and 60 touchdowns, placing him second all-time in franchise history in both receiving yards and receiving touchdowns, trailing only the legendary Rod Smith. He also played a key role in the Broncos’ run to Super Bowl 50, where the team defeated the Carolina Panthers to capture their third Lombardi Trophy.
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Beyond the Numbers: A Beloved Teammate and Community Hero
While his on-field exploits made him a star, it was Demaryius Thomas’ off-field character that endeared him to teammates, fans, and the community. Known for his humility, generosity, and infectious smile, Thomas was widely regarded as one of the most genuine and kind-hearted players in the NFL.
“He never changed,” Peyton Manning once said. “From the moment I got to Denver, DT was the guy who led by example—never about drama, always about the team.”
Thomas was active in various charitable efforts throughout his career, including work with youth organizations, anti-bullying campaigns, and support for children with incarcerated parents—a cause deeply personal to him. His foundation quietly helped countless children in Colorado and Georgia, often without public recognition.
In a league that often spotlights flash and ego, Thomas was a steady, quiet force—a superstar who never sought the spotlight but always delivered in the biggest moments.
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A Tragic and Untimely Loss
On December 9, 2021, the sports world was stunned by the news that Thomas had passed away at just 33 years old. He was found unresponsive at his home in Roswell, Georgia. Later reports attributed his death to complications from a seizure disorder, believed to be linked to injuries sustained during his playing career.
The loss of Thomas sent shockwaves through the NFL community. Tributes poured in from players, coaches, and fans, with former teammates describing him as “the heartbeat of the locker room.” The Broncos honored him with a moving pregame ceremony, including a “88” decal on their helmets and a moment of silence. Fans left flowers, jerseys, and handwritten notes outside Empower Field at Mile High.
His passing also spurred deeper conversations about player health and long-term impacts of football, prompting tributes not only in Denver but across the league.
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The Ring of Fame: A Fitting Tribute
The Broncos’ Ring of Fame, established in 1984, serves as a shrine to the franchise’s most impactful figures. Inductees are immortalized with a steel-and-glass pillar surrounding the stadium and their names emblazoned on the facade of Empower Field.
By placing Thomas among these legends, the organization is not only honoring his record-setting career but ensuring that his legacy lives on for generations of fans.
Team President Damani Leech said in a statement:
> “Demaryius was everything the Broncos stand for—tough, talented, humble, and kind. His induction into the Ring of Fame is not just about his stats, but about the man he was and the lives he touched. He will always be part of the Broncos family.”
The induction ceremony is scheduled to take place during a prime-time
