SAN FRANCISCO — Ever since he returned to his beloved Broncos five years ago, John Elway has been eager to utter four words in particular.
"This one's for Pat!"
Team owner Pat Bowlen declared, "This one's for John!" while jabbing the Lombardi Trophy into the air following the Broncos' 31-24 win over Green Bay 18 years ago in San Diego after Elway helicoptered his way into NFL immortality in his fourth shot at a title.
A desire to return the favor is what drives the man who has guided Denver to a pair of Super Bowls from the front office to go with the five he delivered during his Hall of Fame playing career.