The Man Who Won Two Superbowls With A Torn ACL
Introduction
John Elway is a name synonymous with NFL greatness. As the legendary quarterback of the Denver Broncos, Elway achieved a level of success that many players can only dream of. Yet, his journey to becoming a two-time Super Bowl champion and a member of the Pro Football Hall of Fame was anything but easy. Along the way, Elway faced numerous obstacles—from physical challenges to career setbacks. What set him apart was his relentless mentality and refusal to give up, no matter how tough the odds. In this article, we’ll explore the major hurdles Elway overcame on his path to greatness and how his perseverance solidified his legacy.
Fun Fact
Elway, at the time was the oldest player to win an MVP at age 38 (Now beaten by Tom Brady in 2017)
Overcoming Dupuytren’s Contracture: Fighting Through Physical Limitations
One of the most significant physical challenges John Elway faced was Dupuytren’s contracture, a condition that affects the connective tissue in the hand, causing fingers to curl inward. For a quarterback, whose livelihood depends on grip strength and throwing accuracy, this condition could have been career-ending. The stiffness and reduced flexibility in his hands made it harder to throw and control the football—an obstacle few players at his level have ever had to face.
The way Elway overcame Dupuytren’s was through hand therapy with a specialist. “When I saw my hand doctor, the only option was surgery,” Elway said. “I wasn’t interested in more surgeries”. As Elway wanted to avoid surgery at all costs, he saw this specialist as his best bet.
Instead of letting Dupuytren’s contracture derail his career, Elway adapted. His unwavering commitment to his craft enabled him to work around the limitations. He focused on strengthening other aspects of his game, including his footwork, decision-making, and ability to read defenses. This determination to overcome physical barriers demonstrated his resilience and set an example of mental toughness for players who came after him.
Playing with a Torn ACL: Defying Pain and Injury
A torn ACL is a serious injury that often requires surgery and extensive recovery time. For most athletes, it’s a setback that sidelines them for months. For John Elway, it was a reality he lived with throughout his entire career, as he suffered from his ACL injury in high school. Remarkably, Elway played without ever repairing the ACL in his left knee, a testament to his extraordinary pain tolerance and competitive drive.
Despite this significant injury, Elway maintained his status as one of the most mobile quarterbacks of his era. His ability to scramble out of the pocket, evade defenders, and make plays on the run became a hallmark of his game. Elway’s decision to push through the pain wasn’t without its risks, but his determination to excel at the highest level overpowered any fears of aggravating the injury. His grit and refusal to let physical pain hold him back became an inspiration for teammates and fans alike.
Traded and Criticized: Proving Himself to the NFL World
John Elway’s NFL journey began with controversy. Drafted as the number one overall pick by the Baltimore Colts in 1983, Elway made it clear he did not want to play for the team. He refused to play for the colts and was given to the Broncos. His decision to refuse to play for the Colts led to widespread criticism from fans and media, who labeled him as entitled and ungrateful. Lucky for him, it was at the Broncos where his true potential would finally shine.
Even in Denver, Elway’s early performances were met with skepticism. Critics questioned whether he could live up to the hype of being a top draft pick. Yet, instead of letting the negativity affect him, Elway used it as motivation. He worked tirelessly to refine his skills, earning the respect of his teammates and coaches. Over time, his leadership on the field silenced the doubters and cemented his reputation as one of the most clutch quarterbacks in NFL history.
“Chase your passion. If you keep your goals and passion in front of you, and you work hard, you will find a way to success.“
Super Bowl Losses: Turning Heartbreak into Victory
For much of his career, John Elway was haunted by Super Bowl heartbreak. Before achieving victory, he experienced the bitter disappointment of losing three Super Bowls in 1987, 1988, and 1990. These losses were not just defeats; they were blowouts, the 1990 superbowl known as one of the worst blowouts in history! Critics began to question whether Elway could ever win on football’s biggest stage. This was hard on Elway. “I’m definitely disappointed by the way I played,” he said, “but I walked off that field knowing there was no lack of effort or anything like that.
Rather than letting these defeats define him, Elway used them as fuel to grow as a player and leader. He understood that success often comes after failure and focused on improving both himself and his team. His persistence paid off in 1998 and 1999, when the Broncos won back-to-back Super Bowls. “I’ve experienced the highest of highs and lowest of lows. I think to really appreciate anything you have to be at both ends of the spectrum”, said Elway. In his final season, Elway capped off his career with a Super Bowl MVP performance, proving that perseverance and hard work can overcome even the toughest setbacks.
Lessons from John Elway’s Journey
John Elway’s path to greatness was marked by challenges that would have caused many others to give up. Whether it was fighting through Dupuytren’s contracture, playing with a torn ACL, facing criticism early in his career, or enduring heartbreaking Super Bowl losses, Elway’s unwavering determination carried him through. What real drove him was his passion. He showed us that once you put your passion and goals right in front of you, all it takes is hard work to accomplish them. Perfectly writing out and having the clearest vision of your goals and aspirations will create your journey.
Elway’s journey offers valuable lessons for anyone facing adversity: adapt to your circumstances, use criticism as motivation, and never stop believing in your ability to achieve your goals. By embracing these principles, you can overcome obstacles and turn setbacks into opportunities for growth.
Conclusion – The John Elway Mentality
John Elway’s career is a masterclass in perseverance. What separates his mindset from others is his reaction to certain events. “You Can’t Always Control What Happens, But You Can Control How You React To It”. Despite facing numerous physical and emotional challenges, he refused to let adversity dictate his story. Instead, he tackled every obstacle with determination, using criticism as motivation, continuing to work hard, and most importantly, never giving up. This made Elway ultimately one of the most celebrated players in NFL history. His legacy reminds us all that success is not about avoiding challenges but about rising above them and finding things that we can control to become successful.
FAQs
What is Dupuytren’s contracture, and how did it affect John Elway?
Dupuytren’s contracture is a condition that causes fingers to curl inward due to thickened tissue in the hand. It made gripping and throwing a football more challenging for Elway, but he adapted and continued to excel.
How did John Elway play with a torn ACL?
Elway played his entire career with a torn ACL in his left knee. His exceptional pain tolerance and mobility allowed him to perform at an elite level despite the injury. His athleticism and mindset helped carry him through, to building a stronger body. In addition he often wore a knee brace.
Why was John Elway criticized early in his career?
Elway faced criticism for refusing to play for the Baltimore Colts after being drafted and for early struggles in the NFL, such as the 1990 superbowl blowout. He later silenced critics by becoming one of the league’s greatest quarterbacks.
How did John Elway overcome his Super Bowl losses?
Elway used his early Super Bowl defeats as motivation to improve. From both, the tough losses and the criticism he faced. He eventually led the Broncos to back-to-back Super Bowl victories in 1998 and 1999.
What lessons can we learn from John Elway’s journey?
Elway’s journey teaches the importance of resilience, adapting to challenges, and never giving up, no matter the obstacles.