Mile High Report - DeMarcus Ware retirement: Sharing his top moments with the Denver BroncosBy Fans, For Fans....Your Source For Denver Broncos News and Commenthttps://cdn.vox-cdn.com/community_logos/50905/mhr-fav.png2017-03-15T07:00:00-06:00http://www.milehighreport.com/rss/stream/146795572017-03-15T07:00:00-06:002017-03-15T07:00:00-06:00MHR Radio: DWare belongs in the Broncos Ring of Fame
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<p>There is a four-year requirement, but the ROF committee should make an exception for Ware and the indelible imprint he left on the organization and community. </p> <p id="fntjLC">The question is asked whenever a legend retires. </p>
<p id="wXpYAZ">Should he get in the <a href="https://www.milehighreport.com/">Denver Broncos</a> Ring of Fame? </p>
<p id="GzzxpJ">Shortly after <span>DeMarcus Ware</span> announced his retirement on Monday, the debate ignited. Should the first-ballot inductee into the Pro Football Hall of Fame get a pillar in Memorial Plaza and his name on the facade at Mile High Stadium? </p>
<p id="CIJZln">Before we go any farther with this, it’s important to point out that Pat Bowlen instilled a four-year requirement to get into the <a href="http://www.denverbroncos.com/team/tradition/ring-of-fame.html">Ring of Fame.</a> It’s good in thought, but you’re left in a situation like we have with Ware, who only played three years for the Broncos. John Lynch played only one season more in Denver but still got in. </p>
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<p id="sjtgNA"><a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=66960X1641777&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fsoundcloud.com%2Fmilehighreport%2Fadam-and-ian-reveal-why-demarcus-ware-deserves-to-be-in-the-broncos-ring-of-fame&referrer=sbnation.com&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.milehighreport.com%2F2017%2F3%2F15%2F14928434%2Fdemarcus-ware-broncos-ring-of-fame" rel="sponsored nofollow noopener" target="_blank">As Adam Malnati and I revealed on the latest Mile High Report Radio Podcast, if the Ring of Fame committee put in Lynch, it has to do so for Ware.</a> When you look at what the two did on the field, you can’t even compare them. Without Ware, Denver doesn’t win <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/super-bowl">Super Bowl</a> 50. But as was the case with Lynch, it’s more than just his performance on the field. </p>
<p id="u2pUsz">Lynch was touted for what he did in the locker room and community. As a sterling representative for the organization. So was Ware. </p>
<p id="ibcm5R">As Ian Henson pointed out in his tribute to <a href="http://www.milehighreport.com/2017/3/13/14916506/demarcus-ware-gets-a-mile-high-report-game-ball">Ware in our MHR staff story,</a> less than 60 days into the second leg of his career with Denver, he was participating in a run across the world to raise awareness for spinal cord injuries. Ian added that there wouldn't be many weeks from that point on where you wouldn't see or hear of Ware supporting a local charity.</p>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">The best <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Broncos?src=hash">#Broncos</a> moments of <a href="https://twitter.com/DeMarcusWare">@DeMarcusWare</a>'s career, ranked 1-10<br><br>Anything missing?<br><br> 's » <a href="https://t.co/wSd3rEH5Yh">https://t.co/wSd3rEH5Yh</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ThankYouDWare?src=hash">#ThankYouDWare</a> <a href="https://t.co/0mKp0B6Zwa">pic.twitter.com/0mKp0B6Zwa</a></p>— Denver Broncos (@Broncos) <a href="https://twitter.com/Broncos/status/841756185225236481">March 14, 2017</a>
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<p id="qhS7uh">Ware was not only elite on the field, he was elite off of it. </p>
<p id="i9lgrA">Add in what Ware did to transform <span>Von Miller</span> into the player and man he is, what he did to help <span>Demaryius Thomas</span>, as I wrote about last offseason when <a href="http://www.milehighreport.com/2016/3/28/11314202/demarcus-wares-authenticity-the-right-medicine-for-demaryius-thomas-broncos-teammates">Thomas went with Ware to South Africa,</a> and is there really an argument for this? Look at what <span>Shane Ray</span> said about the chance to learn from one of the greatest to ever put on pads in <a href="http://mmqb.si.com/mmqb/2017/03/14/demarcus-ware-retirement-shane-ray-denver-broncos?xid=socialflow_twitter_si">this excellent Q&A with Robert Klemko:</a> </p>
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<p id="9uJIrH">From the day I got there we would work on hand drills after practice, or watch that extra 15 minutes of film. He helped me work on my technique every day. He told me I was going to be great and I didn’t have a choice if it was up to him, so he pushed me to be a better me every day. Even when I beat a guy and got a sack in practice, he always found a way to critique it and make me better. That just shows his leadership. ... </p>
<p id="iXGinx">He’s someone who honestly and truly wanted others to be great and be happy. I couldn’t have asked for a better situation and a better mentor coming into the league.</p>
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<p id="bfp814">One aspect that is thrown out is the length of time. That was used against Terrell Davis as a reason to keep him out of the Hall of Fame. Thankfully people realized the impact you leave isn’t measured by any length of time. As I said in regards to Davis, you can’t write the history of the NFL without him. The same holds true here. You cannot write the history of the Broncos without Ware.</p>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">.<a href="https://twitter.com/DeMarcusWare">@DeMarcusWare</a> came to Denver in search of a ring, but he found SO much more.<br><br> » <a href="https://t.co/HpKYHi4RhM">https://t.co/HpKYHi4RhM</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ThankYouDWare?src=hash">#ThankYouDWare</a> <a href="https://t.co/sWEdAwVed0">pic.twitter.com/sWEdAwVed0</a></p>— Broncos TV (@BroncosTV) <a href="https://twitter.com/BroncosTV/status/841500925340614656">March 14, 2017</a>
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<p id="7tGSCj">Ware’s performance in the run to the Super Bowl was matched only by Miller’s, and that’s viewed as one of the best playoff showings in NFL history. This can’t be said enough: If Ware isn’t in Denver, it doesn’t win its third Lombardi Trophy. </p>
<p id="MDrr0Q">Mr. B had good intentions with his four-year requirement, but there always are exceptions and this is one of them.</p>
<p id="yMa8T8">The Ring of Fame is meant for players who left an indelible imprint on the Broncos. It was only three years, but few in the history of the organization left an imprint like the one Ware has. </p>
<p id="P6cEIo">That’s a player who has earned a place in the Broncos Ring of Fame.</p>
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https://www.milehighreport.com/2017/3/15/14928434/demarcus-ware-broncos-ring-of-fameIan St. Clair2017-03-13T17:37:16-06:002017-03-13T17:37:16-06:00A Mile High Report salute to DeMarcus Ware
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<p>DeMarcus Ware has retired from the NFL. Us Denver Broncos fans give him one big ole Mile High Salute.</p> <p id="Ce5c1B">During the season, when the <a href="https://www.milehighreport.com/">Denver Broncos</a> win, we give out game balls to the teams top performers in the game. Well, DeMarcus Ware was a top performer for three seasons for Denver and with his retirement is now just a few years away from being inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame.</p>
<p id="ayPO4L">Here are our game balls for DeMarcus Ware and what he has meant to us as Broncos fans over these past three plus years.</p>
<h5 id="2jzvd1">Laurie Lattimore-Volkmann</h5>
<p id="1IkNXL">My favorite memory of DeMarcus Ware was when he and <span>Peyton Manning</span> were both nursing injuries during the 2015 season. They were watching the Broncos-<a href="https://www.patspulpit.com/">Patriots</a> from inside because cold weather and standing would not be good for either. As they watched the game on TV in the equipment room , Manning told Ware a pass-rush play he should go give Wade Phillips, so Ware ran out and told Wade the play. A little later, Ware had a play for Peyton to send in to Brock - which he did, and it worked. I love that story for both players because it's a tiny snippet of how much they loved football and loved winning and loved competing. I'm certain <span>Von Miller</span> wouldn't be the player he is without DeMarcus, so not only is Ware leaving his own legacy in the NFL as the 8th all-time sacks leader, he's leaving his mark in two locker rooms and among hundreds of players.</p>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">TY <a href="https://twitter.com/DeMarcusWare">@DeMarcusWare</a>! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Broncos?src=hash">#Broncos</a> will miss their captain & <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BroncosCountry?src=hash">#BroncosCountry</a> will miss your inspiration. I'll miss "at end of the day" quotes too ☺️ <a href="https://t.co/4ReE0mJnjB">https://t.co/4ReE0mJnjB</a></p>— L.Lattimore-Volkmann (@docllv) <a href="https://twitter.com/docllv/status/841383630761021441">March 13, 2017</a>
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<h5 id="02Coak">Pete Baron</h5>
<p id="9XrqOd">Thank you DeMarcus for being the class act that you have always been. What's lost with today's athletes is the reverence for the game and the respect for the game and the players before them. When you were with Dallas, you brought that reverence and respect, and players followed. When you came to Denver, we were in desperate need of a mentor, an idol, a "hero" for our players, especially Von Miller to look up to; you were that idol. In this day and age when kids and adults have false heroes to look up to, you truly are one of the worthy ones that no parent, no brother, and no sister would mind at all looking up to or having their children look up to. For all the great moments you had on the football field, your biggest impact will always be felt off of the field, where you truly are invaluable. You not only molded men, but you changed lives for the better with every smile, every appearance, and every photograph/tweet/and interview you ever had. Thank you DeMarcus for simply being you and showing the entire world how a real hero, one worthy of the praise and emulation should act!</p>
<h5 id="pvdXnj">Leora Ruzin</h5>
<p id="PMTicO">My favorite memory of DeMarcus Ware is of how he made a point to mentor <span>Demaryius Thomas</span> and Von Miller. His leadership was crucial to the success of the team during the 2015-2016 season, and contributed to the Broncos winning <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/super-bowl">the Super Bowl</a>. I will miss his infectious energy and even more infectious smile.</p>
<h5 id="Ae0bd8">Ian St. Clair</h5>
<p id="ei4c1M">There's not a singular memory that defines Ware for me. When I think back on his three years with the Broncos, I'll remember that infectious smile. It's a million dollar smile that seemingly never leaves his face, but gives you a glimpse into his soul. One of the hardest and most tireless workers you will ever encounter. A man who was never satisfied and always demanded more ... out of his teammates, coaches, but also himself. Ware loved what he did, and you could see that every time he stepped foot on the field. Ware is one of the best to ever do what he did, but the other word that defines him is humble. In the end, it's what he brought off the field that means more. As noted already, what he did for Miller and Thomas is remarkable. <a href="http://www.milehighreport.com/2016/3/28/11314202/demarcus-wares-authenticity-the-right-medicine-for-demaryius-thomas-broncos-teammates">It was this story I wrote last offseason that led Ware to follow me on Twitter.</a> Those are only two that we know about. Above all else, it was the glimpses into the moments he shares with his kids. That shows yet again that Ware knows it's bigger than him. Ware not only changed two franchises and their locker rooms over the course of his Hall-of-Fame-career, he changed two communities and countless peoples lives in the process. I'll remember that Ware was not only elite on the field, but more so off of it. Thank you for always sharing that smile with us.</p>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Yup, you see the lions back there. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LifeOnTheReserve?src=hash">#LifeOnTheReserve</a> <a href="https://t.co/gIiIlE77LW">pic.twitter.com/gIiIlE77LW</a></p>— D-Ware (@DeMarcusWare) <a href="https://twitter.com/DeMarcusWare/status/702019887095386112">February 23, 2016</a>
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<h5 id="QfuBO0">Adam Malnati</h5>
<p id="8F6iiw"><span>DeMarcus Ware's</span> impact on the Denver Broncos is likely immeasurable. His veteran presence helped to guide young players like Von Miller, Demaryius Thomas, and Shane Ray. He has been a true leader. The Broncos probably don't win Super Bowl 50 without him. Not because of his play, but because of his leadership and character. I will never forget him coming out before the 2015 season and saying Super Bowl or bust (along with <span>Emmanuel Sanders</span>). That is a commitment to winning. That is excepting nothing less than the best from himself and the men around him. That is what made him a hall of famer and a great Bronco.</p>
<h5 id="SoKLqS">Julie Dixon</h5>
<p id="vPGFlv">Football is a a violent sport dominated by aggressive men who hurt people for a living. Today's gladiators. Few manage to be the best at this, while maintaining a kind, respectful and professional demeanor.</p>
<p id="kGMeoA">DWare did it. Not only did he lead men on the field, but off it as well. USAA chose him to participate in their, Salute to Hero, campaign due to his unwavering fit to a motto of honor, courage and commitment.</p>
<p id="FCisGz">Denver has signed a lot of Free Agents during my time, but DeMarcus was the only time I literally danced. And jumped. And sang, Hallelujah! Ware was one of the very few players to get the best of Peyton Manning. This is an aspect too many overlook. His mental ability matched his physical prowess.</p>
<p id="qYAdN9">Without him, it's very likely we wouldn't have a SB50 championship. During halftime of the crucial win against the New England Patriots*, DWare and Manning delivered to <span>Gary Kubiak</span> notes they had made while watching from the locker room. It worked as Denver stormed back from a deficit to win in an exciting overtime victory. That win meant the playoffs went through Denver.</p>
<p id="aFtDmX">Not only was DeMarcus a Champion on the field, but to proponents for adoption like our family is, he's a true hero. While the football world said fair winds and following seas to one of the all time greats, his greatest gifts, his children, will fill the void. All the best and thank you for being my hero.</p>
<h5 id="EOF6Ng">Tim Lynch</h5>
<p id="iTmYTI">DeMarcus Ware, quite likely, was the catalyst to the Denver Broncos Super Bowl 51 championship. He came to the team with Von Miller at a crossroads in his career and his life. How much influence Ware exerted over Miller is unknown to the public, but it is clearly obvious that Miller's mindset changed rapidly once Ware arrived in the locker room. For a guy who was "the sack master" for the <a href="https://www.bloggingtheboys.com/">Dallas Cowboys</a> for a decade, easily took on the role of mentor playing opposite of a young, more athletic Miller. The result was the kind of camaraderie and team chemistry necessary to create a dominate unit in the NFL. He may enter the Hall of Fame as a Cowboy, but his impact was big enough on the Broncos organization that I'll still consider him a "Bronco in the Hall of Fame" when it happens. Cheers, DeMarcus! See you in Canton.</p>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">The <a href="https://twitter.com/DeMarcusWare">@DeMarcusWare</a> fake spin move...<br><br>Just amazing. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ThankYouDWare?src=hash">#ThankYouDWare</a> <a href="https://t.co/GKScnyIBn6">https://t.co/GKScnyIBn6</a></p>— NFL (@NFL) <a href="https://twitter.com/NFL/status/841381594208190464">March 13, 2017</a>
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<h5 id="V2a7ap">Ian Henson</h5>
<p id="cdtZoK">DeMarcus Ware signed with the Broncos on March 12, 2014 (one day after he was released from the Dallas Cowboys), on May 4, 2014 Ware was participating in Denver's leg of Redbull's Wings For Life World Run. He was less than 60 days into the second leg of his career with Denver and he was participating in a run across the world to raise awareness for spinal cord injuries. There wouldn't be many weeks from that point on where you wouldn't see or hear of Ware supporting a local charity.</p>
<p id="qzZNw8">Anyone that may wonder what Ware meant to the Denver community can see how quickly fans of the Broncos mobilized to identify the robbery suspects when Ware's house was broken into and <a href="http://www.tmz.com/2016/10/26/nfls-demarcus-ware-cops-catch-burglary-suspects-super-bowl-ring-recovered/">his Super Bowl ring was stolen</a>. On Denver vs. 104.3 The Fan's D-Mac identified Ware for the turnaround in Von Miller's career, attributing Ware's presence with a direct correlation to the uptick in Miller's production (and eventual Super Bowl MVP). Ware was that person for more than just Miller, he left a path of success around him no matter who it was, Shane Ray, Shaquil Barrett, eventually Dekoda Watson and even Vontarrius Dora.</p>
https://www.milehighreport.com/2017/3/13/14916506/demarcus-ware-gets-a-mile-high-report-game-ballTim Lynch2017-03-13T15:57:24-06:002017-03-13T15:57:24-06:00Broncos, the NFL react to DeMarcus Ware’s retirement
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<p>A leader in the locker room and a force to be reckoned with for a dozen years, DeMarcus Ware will be missed by both teammates and fans.</p> <p id="ubLfma">There were three things Broncos could always count on with DeMarcus Ware - 100 percent effort, outstanding leadership and a solid “at the end of the day” quote in every presser.</p>
<p id="h8dS8V">And all three equaled one phenomenal NFL pass rusher.</p>
<p id="gyopXn">“This is a 60-minute game and the guys have to play 60 minutes. [That’s] all 11 guys, not just nine or two or four,” Ware said back in December. “All 11 guys have to play for 60 minutes. ...<em><strong>At the end of the day</strong></em> you have to play the whole game.”</p>
<p id="9smNyl">But it was that first one - 100 percent effort - that got John Elway’s attention three years ago and kept Broncos Country’s support ever since.</p>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">DeMarcus - you are the epitome of what an NFL player should be. <br><br>Congrats on your Hall of Fame career & thank you for becoming a Bronco! <a href="https://t.co/J7POS7P4aD">https://t.co/J7POS7P4aD</a></p>— John Elway (@johnelway) <a href="https://twitter.com/johnelway/status/841386547563888641">March 13, 2017</a>
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<p id="62z3Js">After 12 seasons of professional football for Ware - nine with the Dallas Cowboys and three with the Broncos, which brought with them 138.5 sacks, eighth most in the NFL and more than any other player since Ware came into the league in 2005 - the stud pass-rusher is now calling it “the end of a day” in the NFL.</p>
<p id="lzldwW">Gary Kubiak called Ware “one of the great players” as well as “one of the finest human beings you’ll ever come across.” </p>
<p id="0IzGQi">“He was a once-in-a-generation player who will go down as one of the all-time great pass rushers in NFL history,” Kubiak said Monday. “Just as important, he showed so much class and leadership with everything he did on and off the field.”</p>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">The opportunity to play in the National Football League.... <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Priceless?src=hash">#Priceless</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ThankYOU?src=hash">#ThankYOU</a> <a href="https://t.co/uVC5gE3138">https://t.co/uVC5gE3138</a></p>— D-Ware (@DeMarcusWare) <a href="https://twitter.com/DeMarcusWare/status/841408198837981185">March 13, 2017</a>
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<p id="gqi5S1">Following the <a href="http://www.milehighreport.com/2017/3/13/14913192/demarcus-ware-announces-retirement">somewhat surprising announcement</a>, coaches, teammates, reporters and fans across the country weighed in with their obvious respect for one of the best ever - including the defensive coach that really put Ware’s talent to use and helped the edge rusher lead Denver’s defense to one of the greatest performances ever in Super Bowl 50, thanks in large part to Ware’s mentee, Von Miller.</p>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">D-Ware--a true football legend-a privilege to have been with him--HOF on and off the field--Congrats on your career! Luv U. Coach Wade</p>— Wade Phillips (@sonofbum) <a href="https://twitter.com/sonofbum/status/841387100092088320">March 13, 2017</a>
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<p id="UumBm6">Ware’s teammates as well as competitors made sure to thank the man who brought an example, leadership, positive attitude but also fire to keep playing at a Hall-of-Fame level.</p>
<p id="1WP2Zr">Brandon Marshall noted that Ware was “his favorite guy in the locker room” and he helped Marshall in ways Ware would never know.</p>
<div class="c-float-right"><aside id="fPiYVR"><q>“You are legendary! You helped me become the player/person I am today. God brought you into my life when I need you the most...Thanks for everything brother!” - Von Miller</q></aside></div>
<p id="JfMB5J">“The most humble guy you would ever meet. Always has a smile on his face,” Marshall <a href="https://twitter.com/CameronWolfe/status/841389452576595975">said to Cameron Wolfe</a>. “And he loved helping the young guys along.”</p>
<p id="etPbVa">This legacy was most apparent with another future HOF pass rusher - Von Miller - who has always been vocal about how much Ware has done for him as a player and a man.</p>
<p id="WTRyZs">On his Instagram account, Miller wrote, “You are legendary! You helped me become the player/person I am today. God brought you into my life when I need you the most! I got to witness greatness, I had an opportunity to see what it takes to be legend! Thanks for everything brother!”</p>
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</div> <p style=" margin:8px 0 0 0; padding:0 4px;"> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BRl491QFB-p/" style=" color:#000; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none; word-wrap:break-word;" target="_blank">Congrats on a hall of fame career! You are legendary! You helped me become the player/person I am today. God brought you into my life when I need you the most! I got to witness greatness, I had an opportunity to see what it takes to be legend! Thanks for everything brother!</a></p> <p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;">A post shared by Von Miller (@vonmiller) on <time style=" font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px;" datetime="2017-03-13T20:39:37+00:00">Mar 13, 2017 at 1:39pm PDT</time></p>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/broncoscountry?src=hash">#broncoscountry</a> will miss you! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SB50Champs?src=hash">#SB50Champs</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/4Life?src=hash">#4Life</a> <a href="https://t.co/S9cbyi0dcK">pic.twitter.com/S9cbyi0dcK</a></p>— AqibTalib21 (@AqibTalib21) <a href="https://twitter.com/AqibTalib21/status/841391637720887296">March 13, 2017</a>
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</div> <p style=" margin:8px 0 0 0; padding:0 4px;"> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BRl2VgJFQuZ/" style=" color:#000; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none; word-wrap:break-word;" target="_blank">@demarcusware Congrats Big Bro We will miss you my dude #Legend #Goat #HOF</a></p> <p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;">A post shared by Chris Harris Jr (@chrisharrisjr) on <time style=" font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px;" datetime="2017-03-13T20:16:38+00:00">Mar 13, 2017 at 1:16pm PDT</time></p>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Proud to be your teammate!! Congrats on the career!! <a href="https://t.co/5E2gFiEq6N">https://t.co/5E2gFiEq6N</a></p>— Matt Paradis (@two_dice) <a href="https://twitter.com/two_dice/status/841378682233053184">March 13, 2017</a>
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</div> <p style=" margin:8px 0 0 0; padding:0 4px;"> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BRmDeFvFynO/" style=" color:#000; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none; word-wrap:break-word;" target="_blank">BOOM! "hey, let me tell you something" lol, it's was an honor and a pleasure! #thankyoudware #bossup</a></p> <p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;">A post shared by TJ Ward (@bossward43) on <time style=" font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px;" datetime="2017-03-13T22:11:24+00:00">Mar 13, 2017 at 3:11pm PDT</time></p>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr"> you the man D.Ware ! <a href="https://t.co/6lK06kAeuj">https://t.co/6lK06kAeuj</a></p>— Max Garcia (@MGarcia_76) <a href="https://twitter.com/MGarcia_76/status/841377134639742977">March 13, 2017</a>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Congrats boss man! Legendary player. But even better man, wish you much love and success! <a href="https://t.co/XUtz1iUmi0">https://t.co/XUtz1iUmi0</a></p>— Darius kilgo (@D_kilgo97) <a href="https://twitter.com/D_kilgo97/status/841403683216723968">March 13, 2017</a>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Congrats D Ware! World class person, teammate, leader and friend! <a href="https://t.co/YOh4xMinCZ">https://t.co/YOh4xMinCZ</a></p>— Trevor Siemian (@TrevorSiemian) <a href="https://twitter.com/TrevorSiemian/status/841400234437681152">March 13, 2017</a>
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</div> <p style=" margin:8px 0 0 0; padding:0 4px;"> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BRl1PfEDJye/" style=" color:#000; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none; word-wrap:break-word;" target="_blank">Congrats on a great career @demarcusware! Was an honor to play along side you and captain our team to a super bowl victory. I am very appreciative of all you done for me and my career and better yet being a stand up guy and a friend. Much love your way and I know there is many more great things coming your way. To a future hall of Famer and forever a #CowboyGreat and #BroncoGreat, I salute you brother!!</a></p> <p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;">A post shared by David Bruton Jr. (@d_brutjr30) on <time style=" font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px;" datetime="2017-03-13T20:07:05+00:00">Mar 13, 2017 at 1:07pm PDT</time></p>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">I learned more about pass rush from this man in 1 year than I did all my other years combined. Amazing player & even better person. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/respect?src=hash">#respect</a> <a href="https://t.co/7eYMFUVnL7">https://t.co/7eYMFUVnL7</a></p>— Chase Vaughn (@ChaseVaughn) <a href="https://twitter.com/ChaseVaughn/status/841402164614483968">March 13, 2017</a>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Congrats to one of the best to ever do it. And did it with class. <a href="https://t.co/3dmP9yndcx">https://t.co/3dmP9yndcx</a></p>— Chris Long (@JOEL9ONE) <a href="https://twitter.com/JOEL9ONE/status/841395400296751104">March 13, 2017</a>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">“<a href="https://twitter.com/DeMarcusWare">@DeMarcusWare</a>, man… Arguably one of the best pass rushers of all-time.” <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ThankYouDWare?src=hash">#ThankYouDWare</a> <a href="https://t.co/OUKeNDXvvl">https://t.co/OUKeNDXvvl</a></p>— NFL (@NFL) <a href="https://twitter.com/NFL/status/841379237328175107">March 13, 2017</a>
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<p lang="und" dir="ltr"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Respect?src=hash">#Respect</a> <a href="https://t.co/RjUtgM5hIq">pic.twitter.com/RjUtgM5hIq</a></p>— Kansas City Chiefs (@Chiefs) <a href="https://twitter.com/Chiefs/status/841387089690259457">March 13, 2017</a>
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<p id="c38DW6">And, of course, there was always Ware’s indelible connection with another great leader who left a lasting impression on the team - and who also had some <a href="https://twitter.com/NickiJhabvala/status/841469649963352064">very complimentary things to say</a> about his friend.</p>
<div class="c-float-right"><aside id="VekheI"><q>“He loved putting in the work, loved helping the young players and especially loved playing on Sundays. It was no surprise he was such an outstanding football player.” - Peyton Manning</q></aside></div>
<p id="dRSZ4P">“DeMarcus is not only a Hall of Fame player but a Hall of Fame teammate as well. I played against DeMarcus and played with him. It was an honor to do both,” Peyton Manning said. “Being a teammate with DeMarcus Ware and being a captain with him was a real privilege for me.</p>
<p id="wlvCMt">“He loved everything about it. He loved putting in the work, loved helping the young players and especially loved playing on Sundays,” Manning added. “It was no surprise he was such an outstanding football player. It was because of his work ethic and his real passion for the game.”</p>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Two of the GOATs walk away as Broncos in back to back years. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/thanksforthememories?src=hash">#thanksforthememories</a> <a href="https://t.co/NAvtfgOCbv">pic.twitter.com/NAvtfgOCbv</a></p>— Denver Broncos UK (@UKBroncosUK) <a href="https://twitter.com/UKBroncosUK/status/841394187039842304">March 13, 2017</a>
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<p id="0vrtue">But one of the signs of a truly great player on and off the field is when fans and franchises of the player’s previous teams remain loyal. </p>
<p id="9Df7Pu">Ware definitely had respect of the Cowboys’ front office and their fans even after he left for Denver in 2014.</p>
<p id="c2Ypcg">And we always knew there might be a <a href="http://www.milehighreport.com/2014/8/28/6076773/going-back-to-texas-demarcus-ware-knows-which-home-is-important-right">possibility Ware would want to retire a Cowboy</a> - we were just happy to have him for as long as he wanted to be here.</p>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">117 sacks in 9 seasons with the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DallasCowboys?src=hash">#DallasCowboys</a> <br>Watch nearly every <a href="https://twitter.com/DeMarcusWare">@DeMarcusWare</a> sack in a Cowboys uniform.<br><br> : <a href="https://t.co/Ca7rjc2njj">https://t.co/Ca7rjc2njj</a> <a href="https://t.co/fnMHG1F4bv">pic.twitter.com/fnMHG1F4bv</a></p>— Dallas Cowboys (@dallascowboys) <a href="https://twitter.com/dallascowboys/status/841391643672600576">March 13, 2017</a>
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<p id="Ed9wd7">Congratulations on a truly extraordinary career, DeMarcus. </p>
<p id="Ad7QBD">In three short years - and with one shiny Super Bowl ring - you’ve earned yourself a huge Mile High Salute from all of us in Broncos Country.</p>
<p id="QJhHxu">Because <em>at the end of the day</em>, we were all better - much better - for your contributions to the Denver Broncos.</p>
<p id="O4UiuJ">No matter what the next days bring, we’ll see you again in Canton.</p>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Have a career, <a href="https://twitter.com/DeMarcusWare">@DeMarcusWare</a>!<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ThankYouDWare?src=hash">#ThankYouDWare</a> <a href="https://t.co/GvAzmrK10a">pic.twitter.com/GvAzmrK10a</a></p>— NFL (@NFL) <a href="https://twitter.com/NFL/status/841385953889472512">March 13, 2017</a>
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https://www.milehighreport.com/2017/3/13/14914588/broncos-the-nfl-react-to-demarcus-ware-retirement-from-pro-footballLaurie Lattimore-Volkmann2017-03-13T15:00:00-06:002017-03-13T15:00:00-06:00The Legacy of Demarcus Ware
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<figcaption>Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
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<p>DeMarcus Ware's career was nothing short of stellar. Now that he has announced his retirement, it is time for fans to appreciate his greatness on the gridiron and his contributions off of it.</p> <p><i>Editor's Note: This story was originally published December 30, 2016. It seemed appropriate today with DeMarcus Ware <a target="_blank" href="http://www.milehighreport.com/2017/3/13/14913192/demarcus-ware-announces-retirement">announcing his retirement from the NFL</a>.</i></p>
<p>In 2005, an under the radar prospect <a href="http://www.al.com/sports/index.ssf/2016/04/troy_state_to_honor_demarcus_w.html" target="_blank">helped put Troy on the map</a> and made a monumental move up draft boards based on his uncanny ability to rush the passer.</p>
<p>That young man was DeMarcus Ware.</p>
<p>It's no surprise <span class="_Tgc">— </span>teams are always interested in drafting pass rushers. They are game changers and quite simply the much needed boost every defense needs in order to be successful against the aerial onslaught of today's NFL. Hindsight is 20/20, and it's quite easy to see now why the <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.bloggingtheboys.com/">Dallas Cowboys</a> used the 11th overall selection in the 2005 <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/nfl-draft">NFL Draft</a> on Ware, but back then, deciding on who to take wasn't as easy as you think it might have been.</p>
<p>There was a great debate on who should be the first dynamic pass rusher taken in that year's draft. Ware was one of those prospects, the other was a highly-touted and ferocious quarterback annihilator named <span>Shawne Merriman</span> out of Maryland. Most prognosticators had Merriman ranked higher than Ware, and most assumed he would be taken over Ware in the draft. It wasn't just the draft analysts who held that belief, <a href="http://sportsday.dallasnews.com/dallas-cowboys/cowboys/2016/05/08/demarcus-ware-surprise-cowboys-drafted-2005-called-news" target="_blank">even Ware did himself</a>.</p>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr"><span>Von Miller</span> is a champion and reigning <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/super-bowl">Super Bowl</a> MVP, and teammate DeMarcus Ware motivates Miller to be much more <a href="https://t.co/CYeTyQgLIX">pic.twitter.com/CYeTyQgLIX</a></p>
— Denver Sports (@DenverSport) <a href="https://twitter.com/DenverSport/status/770751234550534144">August 30, 2016</a>
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<p>Ware had met with plenty of teams, but so had Merriman. The Dallas Cowboys, <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.canalstreetchronicles.com/">New Orleans Saints</a> and <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/nfl/teams/san-diego-chargers">San Diego Chargers</a> were the top three teams predicted to boost their defenses with pass rushing prowess in that years' draft. Both prospects met a handful of times with each organization, and with every visit it seemed like Merriman was favored in their respective war rooms instead of Ware.</p>
<p>He certainly got that impression from former Cowboys head coach Bill Parcells, who had stated to Ware in one of his in-house visits that they had found their man and knew who they'd select. With Merriman visiting Cowboys headquarters just a week earlier, Ware could do nothing but assume that Merriman was their guy and that his future resided somewhere other than Dallas.</p>
<p>But then the draft came, and Ware got the most surprising phone call of his life. It was Parcells, who called the young prospect out of Troy to let him know he'd be a Dallas Cowboy. His selection made waves through the media, with many questioning his selection over Merriman, who had great production and played at a bigger school than Ware.</p>
<p>Merriman didn't have to wait long and was selected one pick after Ware by the Chargers. In Merrmian's first three seasons he registered 39.5 sacks, earned Defensive Rookie of the Year honors and quickly became a Pro-Bowler and an All-Pro. Ware had similar success, but not as great, chalking up 33.5 sacks in his first three seasons. Both players' production was incredible, but people still questioned if Dallas had made the right move.</p>
<p><i><b>Over a decade has passed since both of them were drafted and it's quite safe to say that Dallas didn't make a mistake.</b></i></p>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Never lose sight of your goals. Champs don't have off days, just improvement days. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Workday?src=hash">#Workday</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SquadUp?src=hash">#SquadUp</a> <a href="https://t.co/6sySK6E5BC">pic.twitter.com/6sySK6E5BC</a></p>
— D-Ware (@DeMarcusWare) <a href="https://twitter.com/DeMarcusWare/status/764464356012662785">August 13, 2016</a>
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<p>After showing flashes of greatness and the grit to become one of the best pass rushers the NFL has ever seen, the path of Merriman would<a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shawne_Merriman" target="_blank"> become much different than one assumed</a> after his incredible start to his career. His production quickly dropped off and his career was ravaged with injuries and use of steroids. When it was all said and done, Merriman only registered six sacks more than what he did in his first three years, and it was <i>lights out</i> for the once great pass rusher in 2012.</p>
<p>On the other hand, Ware <a href="http://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/W/WareDe99.htm" target="_blank">has endured a long and successful career</a> with the Cowboys and <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.milehighreport.com/">Denver Broncos</a>. He recently ascended to the NFL's top ten list in regard to all-time sacks with 138.5 and has earned nine Pro-Bowl and seven All-Pro (x4 first-team, x3 second-team) selections. And last season, he reached the highest of heights and after ten years of waiting and became a Super Bowl Champion.</p>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Broncos?src=hash">#Broncos</a>’ DeMarcus Ware named Darrent Williams Good Guy Award recipient <a href="https://t.co/wAtzJHHwTi">https://t.co/wAtzJHHwTi</a> by <a href="https://twitter.com/CameronWolfe">@CameronWolfe</a> <a href="https://t.co/QqypRZob74">pic.twitter.com/QqypRZob74</a></p>
— The Denver Post (@denverpost) <a href="https://twitter.com/denverpost/status/811043452997763072">December 20, 2016</a>
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<p>But it isn't just the statistics that make Ware a phenomenal player. It's the <a target="_blank" href="http://www.denverpost.com/2016/12/29/demarcus-ware-set-for-back-surgery/">presence he brings in the locker room</a> and the impact he makes in numerous communities with his gracious charitable efforts. There's no doubt that he helped foster and mold the Broncos' winning culture, and <a target="_blank" href="http://www.espn.com/blog/denver-broncos/post/_/id/24377/von-miller-could-write-a-book-on-what-demarcus-ware-has-meant-to-career">has been a superb influence on Von Miller</a> and the rest of his teammates. He is a living legend, and a gracious difference maker who has done everything to make those around him better in all facets of life.</p>
<p>Ware has been an inspiration to many of the NFL's up and coming pass rushers and players. Without question, he has set a tremendous example for them all. He has shown them how to play with honor, pride and dignity <span class="st">— and perhaps most </span>importantly, how to conduct themselves rightfully and respectfully off the field. A leader of men, a warrior on the gridiron. One of the best of his era, one of the best to ever play the game.</p>
<p><i><b>And no matter how hard anyone tries, there will never be a another DeMarcus Ware. </b></i></p>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">.<a href="https://twitter.com/DeMarcusWare">@DeMarcusWare</a> a 'true champion' with Super Bowl ring<br><br>1-on-1: <a href="https://t.co/vSYEtHhYVj">https://t.co/vSYEtHhYVj</a> <a href="https://t.co/33OU38HZLU">pic.twitter.com/33OU38HZLU</a></p>
— Phil Milani (@philmilani) <a href="https://twitter.com/philmilani/status/742281724852359168">June 13, 2016</a>
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<p>He is living proof that being yourself is the privilege of a lifetime, and that with the right mindset and approach, you can conquer anything that comes in your path. If this year is the last season Ware ever wears a jersey, the NFL will be losing one of the greatest men whose presence has ever graced the gridiron. If it isn't, the NFL's fans and entire community will be blessed to see him head into battle once more.</p>
<p>Thank you DeMarcus Ware, for everything that you have done and for everything that you will continue to do. It has been a privilege watching you play for over a decade. There is no doubt that you raised the bar of what it means to be a professional with all your efforts on and off the field during a historic Hall of Fame career.</p>
<p><i><b>Most certainly, your legacy will endure for generations to come.</b></i></p>
https://www.milehighreport.com/2016/12/30/14123648/the-legacy-of-demarcus-wareChristopher Hart2017-03-13T13:58:15-06:002017-03-13T13:58:15-06:00DeMarcus Ware announces retirement
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<p>One of the greatest pass rushers in the NFL has decided to hang up the cleats</p> <p id="WgcEgX"><span>DeMarcus Ware</span> posted this on his Twitter account, ending his illustrious career with the Dallas Cowboy and <a href="https://www.milehighreport.com/">Denver Broncos</a>.</p>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">It's time .... <a href="https://t.co/qlXpcNn12b">pic.twitter.com/qlXpcNn12b</a></p>— D-Ware (@DeMarcusWare) <a href="https://twitter.com/DeMarcusWare/status/841375464484667392">March 13, 2017</a>
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<p id="8bp6Pv">Ware will retire at <a href="http://www.pro-football-reference.com/leaders/sacks_career.htm">#8 on the all-time sack list</a>, one sack behind <span>Jason Taylor</span>. </p>
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<p id="pyZjyU">The + sign denotes Hall of Fame credentials. The only two on this list, including Ware, are not yet eligible. Clearly, Ware will be a sure-fire Hall of Famer. </p>
<p id="4LVXEc">And if sack totals are not enough, he finished his career near the top of the boards in sacks per game as well, trailing only Reggie White and Lawrence Taylor.</p>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Only Hall of Famers Reggie White & Lawrence Taylor averaged more sacks/game than <a href="https://twitter.com/DeMarcusWare">@DeMarcusWare</a> <a href="https://t.co/LrMEkvdxlb">pic.twitter.com/LrMEkvdxlb</a></p>— NFL Research (@NFLResearch) <a href="https://twitter.com/NFLResearch/status/841378741901127680">March 13, 2017</a>
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<p id="SnHatP">It was an honor to watch him play for the Orange and Blue for at least a few years. See you in Canton, DeMarcus!</p>
https://www.milehighreport.com/2017/3/13/14913192/demarcus-ware-announces-retirementJeff Essary2016-11-24T06:30:01-07:002016-11-24T06:30:01-07:00DeMarcus Ware provides a surprise Thanksgiving to soldiers
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<p>The outside linebacker is a team captain for a reason - good stuff on and off the field.</p> <p id="yui_3_16_0_1_1479988066286_13826">Four soldiers at Fort Carson were sent to their Sgt. Major’s office on Tuesday.</p>
<p id="gjhfSa">They thought they were in trouble.</p>
<p id="pMhDaz">"I was freaking out," said Andrew W.</p>
<p id="rFfvEy">"Normally if you are called to Sgt. Major’s office you did something bad. You messed up," said Felix F.</p>
<p id="eTPhPV">Jordan T. pointed out that "you’re not going there to eat cookies and drink milk."</p>
<p id="smQ0qq">But they were going there for an invitation to a surprise Thanksgiving meal hosted by Broncos’ linebacker DeMarcus Ware and practice squad cornerback Taurean Nixon at Ware’s home.</p>
<p id="YdJaWr">"Surprise! Happy Thanksgiving!" Ware said as he opened the door to the four flabbergasted soldiers.</p>
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<p id="yui_3_16_0_1_1479988066286_13839">The experience was hosted by USAA, the Official Military Appreciation Sponsor of the NFL, as part of the league’s commitment to honor military through "<a href="http://salutetoservice.com/">Salute to Service</a>."</p>
<p id="FH9A8k">Ware, who is the Broncos’ nominee for the 2016 USAA Salute to Service Award, told the soldiers they are the real heroes.</p>
<p id="ZHLk3E">"We’ve got a lot of things to be blessed for today, a lot of things to be thankful for," Ware said. "People look up to us and they say we are the stars, but the thing is, for us, you guys are the stars. You are the guys we look up to, going over and beyond in a whole different realm keeping us safe."</p>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">The <a href="https://twitter.com/Broncos">@Broncos</a> are proud to recognize <a href="https://twitter.com/DeMarcusWare">@DeMarcusWare</a>'s commitment to our military.<br><br> : [<a href="https://t.co/KL2JVSPdJ8">https://t.co/KL2JVSPdJ8</a>] <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SaluteToService?src=hash">#SaluteToService</a> <a href="https://t.co/Hk5qVPuKRB">pic.twitter.com/Hk5qVPuKRB</a></p>
— Broncos Off Field (@BroncosOffField) <a href="https://twitter.com/BroncosOffField/status/793856074101067777">November 2, 2016</a>
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<p id="YZKBzf">Allen R., whose parents are from a different country and joined the Army to repay America for opening its arms to him, was relieved this was the reason he was called to his supervisor’s office earlier in the day.</p>
<p id="Whd5YR">"I did not see this afternoon going this way at all," he said with a big smile.</p>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">In honor of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SaluteToService?src=hash">#SaluteToService</a> month & <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/VeteransDay?src=hash">#VeteransDay</a>, this <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TalkNow?src=hash">#TalkNow</a> is for those who serve. It's our rent for living! <a href="https://t.co/A1gPma5mC4">https://t.co/A1gPma5mC4</a></p>
— D-Ware (@DeMarcusWare) <a href="https://twitter.com/DeMarcusWare/status/797162888590979072">November 11, 2016</a>
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https://www.milehighreport.com/2016/11/24/13729602/denver-broncos-demarcus-ware-surprises-fort-carson-soldiers-with-thanksgiving-mealLaurie Lattimore-Volkmann2016-11-11T07:00:09-07:002016-11-11T07:00:09-07:00On this Veteran’s Day, pay tribute through USAA’s Salute to Service Award
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<p><strong>The Denver Broncos Nominate DeMarcus Ware for the 6th Annual Salute to Service Award. </strong>Presented by USAA</p> <h2 id="At7V2J">Help Support Those Who Support the Troops!</h2>
<p id="QJYOPO">The Salute to Service Award presented by USAA was created to acknowledge the exceptional efforts by members of the NFL community to honor and support U.S. service members, veterans and their families. They will be tallying all the hashtags and adding them to their Salute Count. <strong>Tweet #DeMarcusWare and #SALUTETOSERVICE @USAA @NFL</strong></p>
<p id="tFn7cO">DeMarcus Ware was announced as the Broncos nominee for the Salute to Service Award presented by USAA.” The award, presented annually by USAA and the NFL, honors a league member who demonstrates an exemplary commitment to honoring and supporting the military community. USAA is the Official Military Appreciation Sponsor of the NFL.</p>
<p id="LmtUb3">As a Navy wife, sending a BZ to DeMarcus! Our family are USAA members, making this even more special. </p>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr"> ✈️ ✈️ <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SaluteToService?src=hash">#SaluteToService</a> x <a href="https://twitter.com/Broncos">@Broncos</a> on Talk NOW with <a href="https://twitter.com/DeMarcusWare">@DeMarcusWare</a>!<a href="https://t.co/PFNOtDUgjs">https://t.co/PFNOtDUgjs</a></p>— NFL Now (@NFLNow) <a href="https://twitter.com/NFLNow/status/796921666026803201">November 11, 2016</a>
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<p id="xgvUDE"><strong>WHO</strong>: DeMarcus Ware, Broncos Linebacker</p>
<p id="xzAzHC"><strong>WHAT</strong>: Nominated for the sixth annual “Salute to Service Award presented by USAA”</p>
<p id="oSTyVY"><strong>WHEN</strong>: Finalists for the award are announced in January. The recipient will be recognized at the “6th Annual NFL Honors” awards show in Houston on FOX on Saturday, Feb. 4, the night before the Super Bowl.</p>
<p id="cj2Nsm"><strong>WHY</strong>: As someone who has close ties with the military, the Broncos are proud to nominate Demarcus Ware for the Salute to Service award. In addition to his annual support of the team’s Salute to Service outreach in the month of November, Ware continues to proactively organize and participate in military support and outreach on his own. As part of President Barack Obama’s United We Serve initiative and Military Family Network, Ware helped promote the importance of physical fitness for our nation’s children. Additionally, Ware has had numerous family members serve in the military and will honor the Air Force with a sticker decal on his helmet this November. To read more about Ware’s nomination, please visit <a href="http://www.nfl.com/labs/rr/salute/sts">NFL.com/salute</a>.</p>
<p id="gtZzSU"><strong>OTHER INFO</strong>: Past recipients of the award include Vincent Jackson (2015), Jared Allen (2014), John Harbaugh (2013), Charles Tillman (2012), and the late Tennessee Titans owner, K.S. “Bud” Adams, a WWII veteran (2011).</p>
<div class="c-float-right"><aside id="oqiRRP"><q>I want to give all these guys a Mile High Salute!</q></aside></div>
<p id="e8NOdS">The USAA family of companies provides insurance, banking, investments, retirement products and advice to 11.8 million current and former members of the U.S. military and their families. Known for its legendary commitment to its members, USAA is consistently recognized for outstanding service, employee well-being and financial strength. USAA membership is open to all who are serving our nation in the U.S. military or have received a discharge type of Honorable – and their eligible family members. Founded in 1922, USAA is headquartered in San Antonio. For more information about USAA, follow us on Facebook or Twitter (@USAA), or visit <a href="http://usaa.com">usaa.com</a>.</p>
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<p id="ZaT9iP">Hey, Broncos Fans, help DeMarcus WIN this award! <strong>Tweet #DeMarcusWare and #SALUTETOSERVICE</strong></p>
https://www.milehighreport.com/2016/11/11/13595806/usaas-salute-to-service-awardJulie Dixon2016-09-14T07:00:05-06:002016-09-14T07:00:05-06:00DeMarcus Ware still as valuable as ever
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<p>What’s incredible to think about is Ware will only get better as the season progresses.</p> <p id="T0xWJH">The questions started in March. Once he agreed to a reduction in salary, they gained steam and started making fans and some in the media take for granted what <span>DeMarcus Ware</span> means to the <a href="https://www.milehighreport.com/">Denver Broncos</a>. </p>
<p id="8JWlUJ">Not in the locker room, per se. That’s never been in doubt. Just look at <span>Von Miller</span> since Ware arrived in Denver.</p>
<p id="wAiXgG">The questions were about Ware’s on-field effectiveness. Could he stay healthy? Will he even play? If he does, will he contribute or make an impact? What kind of shape is he in? Since Ware missed all of training camp and the preseason, they were fair questions to ask.</p>
<p id="byV6xp">Ware answered those questions in emphatic fashion against the <a href="https://www.catscratchreader.com/">Carolina Panthers</a> last Thursday night. The veteran outside linebacker played as if he hadn’t missed time at all. Ware was on a play count, but showed what value he still brings to the Broncos defense. </p>
<p id="bXfyaB">In his limited time on the field, Ware finished with three total tackles, two quarterback hits and one-and-a-half sacks. Added with what Ware did in the playoffs, he and that defense couldn’t have wished for a better start.</p>
<p id="LYFLXb">“I felt good. I’m glad I had this offseason to sort of rehabilitate myself and get my back right,” he said after the game. “Now, I was on a pitch count this game. Each game I’ll play a little bit more, and I look forward to it. I said I was trying to swing a home run every single time, and I guess it worked out.”</p>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Amazed by what <a href="https://twitter.com/DeMarcusWare">@DeMarcusWare</a> did for the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Broncos?src=hash">#Broncos</a>. Misses all of training camp/preseason, still gets 1.5 sacks. <a href="https://t.co/4Tcelf5l1y">pic.twitter.com/4Tcelf5l1y</a></p>— Ian St. Clair (@IanStClair) <a href="https://twitter.com/IanStClair/status/775387328676139008">September 12, 2016</a>
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<p id="4jxeto">The most crucial aspect for Ware and the Denver defense is to ensure he remains healthy. As was the case with <span>Peyton Manning</span>, Ware wants to get on the field at all times, whether it’s practice or the games. <span>Gary Kubiak</span>, the defensive coaches and the training staff have to do what they did in training camp and preseason. Control his desire and urges. </p>
<p id="M4eksK">Not to say Ware hasn’t and won’t do that on his own, but a strong first game may feed that for him. Just like Manning a season ago. </p>
<p id="1V7eNY">“I think he had played 18 (plays),” Kubiak said after the game. “We were hoping to get 25. DeMarcus in an amazingly conditioned guy. That’s the only reason he was able to get to this day. He can probably sure use this weekend as we move into Week Two.” </p>
<p id="08hI61">If Ware remains healthy, he’s already shown how valuable he is to this team. Remember: it was his first game with no game reps. That speaks to how insane Ware is on his preparation. Not only did he get the sacks and hits in limited action, he got them at crucial times for the Broncos defense. That remains consistent as well. </p>
<p id="m6rUL5">“Big plays like that, they jump the pass rush a lot,” Ware said. “And guys knowing that, ‘hey, you know what, that was one sack we got.’ Then you taste that blood and you say: ‘Hey, let’s go out there. We’re able to get pressure on him. We’re figuring things out.’ And that second half, we got pressure on him.”</p>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">.<a href="https://twitter.com/DeMarcusWare">@demarcusware</a> inks the Player of the Game ball. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NFLKickoff?src=hash">#NFLKickoff</a> <a href="https://t.co/NnbUQzMVzh">pic.twitter.com/NnbUQzMVzh</a></p>— SNF on NBC (@SNFonNBC) <a href="https://twitter.com/SNFonNBC/status/774236885770121217">September 9, 2016</a>
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<p id="x2yxVl">What’s incredible to think about is Ware will only get better as the season progresses. The more he gets on the field, the more his body will get acclimated. As long as his play count steadily increases and he remains healthy, he will be ready when the Broncos need him most. Of course that’s in December, January and February. </p>
<p id="36CzOI">The other positive news to come out of Thursday’s game - and it ties to that time of the season as well - is Denver yet again won a close game where it trailed. </p>
<p id="BTXpaD">“I guess we figured it out from last year,” Ware said. “I just look at it as ‘a win is a win,’ if it’s close or not. We don’t want it to be close, but that was a great team that we played against, and it’s fun to win close games like that.”</p>
<p id="AVi4RY">The questions may have started in March. They were still being asked at 6:30 p.m. MT last Thursday. </p>
<p id="F3RBTl">Then Ware took the field and answered them all. </p>
<p id="KMPmdm">All that’s left is to make sure he remains healthy. </p>
https://www.milehighreport.com/2016/9/14/12908312/demarcus-ware-still-as-valuable-as-ever-to-the-broncosIan St. Clair