Demaryius Thomas to be inducted into Broncos' Ring of Fame - ESPN

ENGLEWOOD, Colo. — Demaryius Thomas, whose signature smile was as big a part of his legacy with the Denver Broncos as his long list of big plays, will be inducted into the team's Ring of Fame during the 2025 season.

Thomas was the only former player or coach selected for the honor Tuesday. The team's Ring of Fame committee is headed up by owners Rob Walton as well as Greg and Carrie Penner. Thomas died in Dec. 9, 2021, just days before his 34th birthday, of what Fulton County (Georgia) Medical Examiner's office ruled as «complications of a seizure disorder.»

In a statement, the Penners said Thomas' selection to the Ring of Fame was «a testament to the indelible mark he left on our organization and community. One of the most beloved players and greatest wide receivers in franchise history, Demaryius inspired our fans with breathtaking athleticism, record-setting performances and joyful, infectious spirit.»

Thomas will be formally inducted during the team's alumni weekend in October with a ceremony at halftime of the Oct. 19 game against the New York Giants.

Thomas, who was a five-time Pro Bowl selection, was the first of two first-round picks for the Broncos in the 2010 NFL draft — quarterback Tim Tebow was the other — and spent nine seasons with the Broncos. He finished his career as the team's second-leading receiver (9,055 yards), behind only Rod Smith.

He is third in franchise history in catches (655) behind Smith and Hall of Famer Shannon Sharpe. He played in 10 seasons overall in his NFL career — his final season was in 2016 with the New York Jets — and finished with 724 catches for 9,763 yards to go with 63 touchdowns.

The ultimate Bronco.

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