What Is 1987 Denver Broncos football team

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Last updated: April 15, 2026

Quick Answer: The 1987 Denver Broncos finished the NFL season with a 10-4-1 record, securing first place in the AFC West. They advanced to Super Bowl XXII but lost 42-10 to the Washington Redskins.

Key Facts

Finished regular season with a 10-4-1 record
Won the AFC West division title
Defeated the Cleveland Browns 38-33 in the AFC Divisional Playoff
Lost Super Bowl XXII 42-10 to Washington Redskins
John Elway threw for 3,196 yards and 22 touchdowns during the season

Overview

The 1987 Denver Broncos represented one of the franchise's most competitive seasons during the late 1980s, culminating in a trip to Super Bowl XXII. Despite a shortened regular season due to a players' strike, the team adapted well and finished with a strong 10-4-1 record.

Under head coach Dan Reeves, the Broncos relied on a balanced offense led by quarterback John Elway and a resilient defense. Their performance secured them the top spot in the AFC West and home-field advantage in the playoffs.

Regular Season Record: The Broncos finished 10-4-1, the best record in the AFC West, edging out the Seattle Seahawks and Kansas City Chiefs.
Strike-Impacted Schedule: The 1987 season was shortened by a players' strike, resulting in three games being played with replacement players; the Broncos went 2-1 in those games.
John Elway’s Performance: Elway passed for 3,196 yards and 22 touchdowns, earning Pro Bowl honors and finishing second in MVP voting.
Defensive Strength: The defense allowed just 18.6 points per game, ranking seventh in the NFL, led by linebacker Tom Jackson and defensive end Karl Mecklenburg.
Playoff Run: Denver defeated the Cleveland Browns 38-33 in the Divisional Round before falling to the Indianapolis Colts in the AFC Championship Game.

How It Works

The 1987 Denver Broncos' season structure and success were shaped by both on-field performance and unique off-field circumstances, including the NFL players' strike. Understanding how the team operated requires examining key roles, strategies, and external factors.

John Elway (Quarterback): As the team's leader, Elway threw for 3,196 yards and 22 touchdowns, using his mobility and arm strength to extend plays and lead comebacks.
Dan Reeves (Head Coach): Reeves implemented a balanced offensive scheme and emphasized discipline, guiding the team through the strike and into the playoffs with consistent game planning.
Replacement Games: During the strike, the NFL used substitute players for Weeks 4–6; Denver’s 2-1 record in those games proved crucial to their playoff positioning.
Running Game: Sammy Winder and Bobby Humphrey combined for over 1,400 rushing yards, helping control the clock and support Elway’s passing attack.
Defensive Strategy: The 3-4 defense, coordinated by Wade Phillips, relied on pressure from linebackers and tight coverage, forcing 27 turnovers during the season.
Home Field Advantage: Playing at Mile High Stadium, the Broncos posted a 6-1 home record, benefiting from altitude and a loud fan base that disrupted opposing offenses.

Comparison at a Glance

A comparison of the 1987 Broncos with other top AFC teams highlights their strengths and weaknesses heading into the postseason.

Team	Record	Points For	Points Against	Playoff Result
Denver Broncos	10-4-1	353	285	Lost AFC Championship
Indianapolis Colts	9-6	311	284	Lost Super Bowl XXII
Cleveland Browns	10-5	337	303	Lost Divisional Round
Seattle Seahawks	9-6	377	346	Missed Playoffs
Pittsburgh Steelers	8-7	304	312	Missed Playoffs

The table shows that while the Broncos had a solid defensive record and strong home performance, their point differential was narrower than some peers. Their narrow loss to the Colts in the AFC Championship Game underscored missed opportunities despite a favorable season trajectory.

Why It Matters

The 1987 season was a pivotal chapter in Broncos history, setting the stage for future Super Bowl appearances in the 1989 and 1998 seasons. It highlighted the team’s resilience amid labor disruptions and elevated John Elway’s legacy as a clutch performer.

Elway’s Leadership: Elway’s performance in 1987 reinforced his status as one of the NFL’s elite quarterbacks, leading five game-winning drives during the season.
Strike Impact: The use of replacement players sparked debate about fairness, but Denver’s success in those games showed depth and coaching adaptability.
Foundation for Success: The team’s near-miss in 1987 built momentum, contributing to their eventual Super Bowl XXXII and XXXIII victories in the late 1990s.
Defensive Evolution: Karl Mecklenburg earned first-team All-Pro honors, marking a shift toward a more dominant defensive front in subsequent years.
Fan Engagement: Despite strike-related disruptions, attendance remained high, showing strong support for Elway and the team’s competitive spirit.
Historical Context: The 1987 season remains notable as one of the most unusual in NFL history due to the strike, making Denver’s success a unique achievement.

The 1987 Denver Broncos may not have won the ultimate prize, but their season remains a testament to perseverance, leadership, and the foundation of a future championship culture.