Gratitude for T.J. Ward

Re: “Former Broncos Pro Bowler and Super Bowl 50 champion T.J. Ward announces retirement,” online sports story

On Wednesday, T.J. Ward announced his retirement from the NFL. Ward’s announcement served as the official conclusion to his eight-year career, which included two Pro Bowl selections and a Super Bowl 50 victory for Ward and his fellow Broncos.

T.J. Ward played an integral role in Denver’s infamous “No Fly Zone.” This legendary secondary, constructed as a result of the combined greatness of Gary Kubiak and Wade Phillips, consisted of Chris Harris Jr., Bradley Roby, Darian Stewart, Aqib Talib, and T.J. Ward. This secondary, alongside Von Miller, Brandon Marshall, Derek Wolfe, and several other great defenders, proved to be one of the NFL’s most formidable defenses.

Under the guidance of Wade Phillips, this defense etched its name into the history books as one of the greatest units to have ever been assembled. As a young Broncos fan, I found myself mesmerized by the astounding playmaking abilities of this defense. From a shutdown secondary to a defensive line whose pressuring capabilities were without equal, Denver’s defense was a force to be reckoned with. I still find myself reflecting on the greatness of that defense from time to time.

I would like to thank T.J. Ward for everything he did as a member of the Denver Broncos. While he also played for the Browns and Buccaneers, I believe that he will be most remembered for his time in Denver. With that being said, congratulations on an incredible career, T.J.! Wear that Super

Bowl 50 ring with pride!

Jeff Fields McCormack, Troup, Texas