Broncos mourn the passing of Hall of Famer Floyd Little

Jan 3, 2021, 8:32 PM

Denver Sports

Pro Football Hall of Famer Floyd Little, known as “The Franchise” in his career with the Denver Broncos, died on New Year’s Day. He was 78. Little was called “The Franchise” because his signing, when players could choose between the NFL and AFL, was credited with keeping the team from relocating in the 1960s and with helping to convince local voters to approve funds to build Mile High Stadium.

Broncos legends John Elway and Billy Thompson, along with biographer Tom Mackie remember the man and player that was Floyd Little.

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STATEMENT FROM BRONCOS PRESIDENT AND CEO JOE ELLIS

“He rightfully earned the nickname ‘The Franchise’ for his profound impact on this organization, helping to put the Broncos on the pro football map in the early days. As the first Pro Football Hall of Famer to star for the Broncos, Floyd brought credibility to this team while becoming one of the most dominant players of his era. Seeing him finally receive that Gold Jacket was the culmination of a tremendous lifetime in football. Even after his retirement, Floyd was a wonderful ambassador for the game and the Denver Broncos, carrying himself with warmth, kindness and class — always with humility and a smile.

“In recent months, he faced his cancer diagnosis with the same grit and determination that defined his incredible playing career. On behalf of the Broncos, we extend our deepest condolences to Floyd’s wife, DeBorah, the entire Little family, his many fans and all of his loved ones.”

STATEMENT BY NFL COMMISSIONER ROGER GOODELL ON THE PASSING OF LEGEND FLOYD LITTLE

After the passing of former Broncos legend Floyd Little, NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell issued a statement remembering the life of the Pro Football Hall of Famer:

“Floyd Little was not only a Hall of Fame running back, he was a Hall of Fame person. Faith, family and football were the pillars of his life.

“I was so fortunate to know Floyd and witnessed first-hand the impact he had on others. Whenever he represented the Broncos at the annual NFL Draft, others immediately sought to greet him and his genuine excitement of being with his fellow Legends and his pride and passion for the Broncos was unmistakable.

“Football, the Broncos and the NFL were a large part of his life, but nothing could surpass his love and affection for his wife DeBorah and his children, Marc, Christy and Kyra. To them and the entire Little family we extend our deepest sympathy.

“He worked to inspire many to be the best they could be, saying at his 2010 induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame: ‘Leave a legacy that you and your family can be proud.’”Everyone with the Denver Broncos family is heartbroken with the passing of Floyd Little,” President and CEO Joe Ellis said. “Without question, Floyd was one of the greatest Broncos of all-time and an unforgettable part of our history. He rightfully earned the nickname ‘The Franchise’ for his profound impact on this organization, helping to put the Broncos on the pro football map in the early days. As the first Pro Football Hall of Famer to star for the Broncos, Floyd brought credibility to this team while becoming one of the most dominant players of his era. Seeing him finally receive that Gold Jacket was the culmination of a tremendous lifetime in football. Even after his retirement, Floyd was a wonderful ambassador for the game and the Denver Broncos, carrying himself with warmth, kindness and class — always with humility and a smile. In recent months, he faced his cancer diagnosis with the same grit and determination that defined his incredible playing career. On behalf of the Broncos, we extend our deepest condolences to Floyd’s wife, DeBorah, the entire Little family, his many fans and all of his loved ones.”