The Denver Broncos have seen a number of legends play for them over the years. Shannon Sharpe, Peyton Manning, and John Elway are the most common names on the lips of the Broncos fans. One name not many might remember played a crucial role for the Broncos in his time at Denver. James Bayard Turner, also known as Jim Turner played for the Denver Broncos in the 1970s.

Turner is often forgotten and overlooked by fans for the lack of a Super Bowl ring with the Broncos. But it should not let his contributions go under the radar. He led the team to their first-ever Super Bowl in his penultimate year as an NFL kicker in 1978. If it weren’t for him, the dream of a Super Bowl appearance might still be a dream for most Broncos fans today. As the 1978 Super Bowl appearance sparked hope among the Broncos and the fans that it is within their reach. With the heart-wrenching news breaking over the weekend, Broncos and NFL fans are in shock as they cope with the revelation.

Denver Broncos Mourned the loss of former kicker

Jim Turner, aged 82, legendary kicker for the Broncos and New York Jets passed away over the weekend. The Broncos shared a tweet honouring his death and remembering him for his time at the Broncos.

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The tweet from the official Broncos account read, “We’re deeply saddened by the passing of #BroncosROF K Jim Turner.” “Retiring as the second-leading scorer in NFL history, Jim was instrumental in helping establish our winning tradition as a key member of our first Super Bowl team.” They reminisce his achievements with the Broncos as they tip the hat in respect. The Broncos shared their support to the Turner family by saying, “Our hearts go out to the entire Turner family.”

The tweet had an attached picture of Jim Turner during his days at the Broncos. The picture further added, “Jim was instrumental in helping establish the Broncos’ winning tradition in the 1970s as a key member of our first Super Bowl team.” The Broncos further extended his effect on the team by sharing, “While his competitive spirit and reliability defined him as a player. Jim’s dedicated mentorship and support of youth following his career will leave a lasting legacy within our community.” Turner was one of the best in the NFL, not only for the Broncos, but for his first team as well.

Former NFL kicker was one of the best

The kicker played for two teams during his time in the NFL namely the New York Jets and the aforementioned Denver Broncos. Despite his successes as a Kicker in the NFL, and scoring the third-most field goals of all time, he only managed to lift one Super Bowl. The Super Bowl in 1969, was the first and only Super Bowl he would ever lift in his career. That has also been the same for the Jets, as they have failed to win another Super Bowl since Super Bowl III.

After being traded to the Broncos from the Jets, Turner spent nearly a decade with them. He stayed with the Broncos from 1971 to 1979. His stint with them also saw that crucial first Super Bowl appearance for the Broncos. Although they fell short, this would reinvigorate them and push them to come back for the ring.

It’s a loss for the NFL community as they adapt to the death of NFL legend Jim Turner. The Broncos and Jets will be mourning the loss of their former player. His death might instill the belief in both teams to push both teams to challenge for the Super Bowl and honor Jim Turner’s death by dedicating the Super Bowl to him.

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