Former Broncos OL Ryan Clady Nominated for Pro Football Hall of Fame Class of 2026
Denver, CO — December 10, 2025 — Ryan Clady, one of the most dominant offensive linemen in Denver Broncos history, has officially been nominated for the Pro Football Hall of Fame Class of 2026. This nomination marks a major milestone in Clady's career, one that was filled with accolades, unforgettable moments, and a legacy that continues to resonate in the NFL community.
Clady, who was drafted by the Broncos in the first round of the 2008 NFL Draft, played his entire career in Denver, anchoring the offensive line and protecting quarterbacks with both strength and finesse. Over the course of his nine-year career, Clady was named to two Pro Bowls and earned an All-Pro selection, solidifying his place among the league’s best at his position.
A Legacy Built on Consistency and Dominance
Clady's career was defined by his consistency and ability to dominate in the trenches. Standing at 6'6" and weighing 320 pounds, he was a physical force who played with an unmatched intensity. His work ethic and attention to detail earned him the respect of his peers, coaches, and fans alike.
During his career, Clady was a pivotal part of one of the NFL’s most potent offenses, especially during the Broncos' Super Bowl 50-winning season in 2015. His ability to protect quarterback Peyton Manning’s blindside was crucial to the success of Denver’s offense, which featured the league's top scoring attack that year.
But it wasn’t just his physicality that set Clady apart—it was his technical proficiency. A gifted technician, he was known for his balance, footwork, and ability to shut down some of the league’s top pass rushers. Whether it was a pivotal third-and-long or an important short-yardage play, Clady consistently delivered.
A Career Highlighted by Super Bowl Glory
Perhaps Clady’s most notable achievement came in the 2015 season, when he was a key member of the Broncos’ offensive line during their Super Bowl 50 victory over the Carolina Panthers. While the defense was the focal point of that championship run, Clady's protection of Manning played a critical role in allowing the offense to function efficiently. His leadership on and off the field was invaluable to the team's success.
Clady was also part of the Broncos' Super Bowl XLVIII team, which reached the championship but ultimately fell to the Seattle Seahawks. That year was marked by a record-setting offensive performance, with Manning breaking numerous passing records. Clady's ability to protect Manning during that historic season is a testament to his role in one of the greatest offenses in NFL history.
A Hall of Fame-Worthy Career
While Clady’s career was hampered by injuries, including a knee injury that kept him out for the entire 2015 season, his accomplishments during his prime years speak for themselves. Over the course of his career, he played 96 games and started 93, and he was consistently regarded as one of the best left tackles in the league.
Clady's dominance on the field and his contributions to the Broncos' success make him a strong candidate for the Pro Football Hall of Fame. His legacy as a key figure in the franchise’s history is undeniable, and this nomination for the Class of 2026 serves as a well-deserved recognition of his exceptional career.
What’s Next for Clady and the Broncos?
As Clady awaits his fate in the Hall of Fame voting, the Broncos' organization is already celebrating his monumental contributions to the team’s success. In a statement from the team, Broncos general manager George Paton praised Clady for his leadership and his impact on the franchise: “Ryan Clady was not only one of the best players to ever wear a Broncos uniform, but he was also a cornerstone of our offensive line for nearly a decade. His dominance at left tackle helped elevate our teams to new heights, and we’re incredibly proud of his career.”
Whether or not Clady ultimately earns a spot in the Hall of Fame, his nomination serves as a testament to the lasting impact he had on the game of football. As the Broncos continue to build their future, Clady’s legacy will remain a shining example of the type of player who embodies both excellence and commitment to his team.
Bo Nix and the Broncos offense could be getting a first-round pick weapon, and it will hardly cost them a thing
The Denver Broncos are in London for the matchup against the New York Jets. It's been a whirlwind of emotions on the injury front for the Broncos, with offensive lineman Ben Powers being placed on injured reserve and requiring surgery, a brutal blow for quarterback Bo Nix and the offense.
Linebacker Jonah Elliss' status for Week 6 remains uncertain, though defensive coordinator Vance Joseph has said that rookie linebacker Que Robinson will fill in if Elliss isn't able to go. Ahead of the matchup, outside of the game at hand, news broke about some potential help on the offensive side of the football, and it could be as early as Week 7 if everything goes smoothly.
Ian Rapoport broke the news on X , formerly known as Twitter, that the team would be bringing in former first-round pick wide receiver Treylon Burks for a visit.
Treylon Burks' career was ravaged by injuries
The Tennessee Titans took Burks with the 19th overall pick in the 2022 draft, but injuries have plagued his young career. He has appeared in just 27 games over the past three seasons with the Titans.
He was waived on Tuesday, after he had been waived with an injury designation in July and reverted to the team's injured reserve list.
Treylon Burks' career stats with the Titans
- 2022: six games started, 33 receptions, 444 yards, one touchdown
- 2023: nine games started, 16 receptions, 221 yards, no touchdowns
- 2024: two games started, four receptions, 34 yards, no touchdowns
Burks is reportedly likely to take other visits outside of the one with Denver, but the Broncos' front office may make it too difficult for him to walk away without joining the team. At the end of the day, it's a low-risk, high-reward situation for the Broncos, and it likely won't cost them much at all.
In terms of time or money, the Broncos have the upper hand here, with Burks looking to resurrect his career and put his best foot forward. The Broncos might win in more ways than one with his visit.
If Burks can stay healthy and walk away with a deal with the Broncos, Denver might find itself with an unexpected weapon for Nix as the season rolls on.
