John Elway won't enter the upcoming NFL season as a lame-duck executive after all.
On Monday, the Denver Broncos and Elway announced they'd come to terms on a new five-year contract that will keep Elway, the team's general manager and executive vice president of football operations, in Denver through 2021.
ESPN's Adam Schefter broke the news, which the team confirmed minutes later in a statement.
Elway was entering the final year of his contract. In May, he insisted that a new deal between him and the Broncos would get done prior to the team's Sept. 11 season opener against the Chargers.
"I look forward to being here with the Broncos for a long time," Elway said at the time.
His new contract ensures that will be the case.
"During these last six seasons, John’s clearly established himself as one of the best general managers in all of sports," team president and CEO Joe Ellis said in the Broncos' statement. "He’s demonstrated impressive football instincts, a strong business acumen and a consistent ability to build competitive teams."
Elway, who guided the Broncos to two Super Bowl wins as a player, was named general manager and executive vice president on Jan. 5, 2011. Since he took over, the Broncos have recorded a 67-28 regular-season record, made five playoff appearances, been to two Super Bowls and won one championship.
"I appreciate the trust and confidence that Joe has shown in me,” Elway said. "Pat Bowlen has always put outstanding leadership in place, and I’m grateful for the support Joe gives us to compete for championships each and every year.
"This is a special place, and the Broncos are home to me. While there’s still a lot of work to be done, I’m excited about the future of this team and this organization."
Terms of the deal have not been made public.
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