Jerry Hopkins: Broncos Foundation | Denver Broncos News

Jerry Hopkins, the quiet powerhouse who anchored the Denver Broncos’ defense in the AFL’s formative years, passed away at 85 — a legacy built on sacks, interceptions, and relentless grit that helped define early Broncos football. From Texas high school glory to Texas A&M captaincy, his journey led him through the Oilers’ cut list before he found his true home with Denver, where he became a cornerstone of the franchise. After stints with Miami and Oakland, he traded cleats for oilfield boots, building his own company back in Texas. His life was a testament to durability — on the field and off — as the AFL’s forgotten giants fade, Hopkins remains a vital, unsung architect of the game’s evolution. Listen in comfort:Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/7b0eb163bd755b6d