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Former Broncos General Manager John Beake Dies at 87

Former Denver Broncos executive John Beake, who helped trade for John Elway, has died at age 87, the team announced.

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Longtime Denver Executive John Beake Passes Away

The Denver Broncos announced on Saturday that former general manager John Beake has died at the age of 87. The team stated that his family confirmed his passing. No cause of death was given.

Beake spent more than two decades with the franchise, serving in several key front office positions. His time with the organization included five Super Bowl trips and back to back championship wins in the late 1990s.

The team released a statement mourning his passing. The organization said that Beake made an enduring impact during more than two decades with the team. The Broncos also praised him as a respected leader throughout one of the most successful eras in franchise history.

Architect of the John Elway Trade

Beake began his time in Denver in 1979, taking on multiple personnel roles before earning a promotion to general manager in 1983. That same year, he helped complete the trade with the Baltimore Colts to bring quarterback John Elway to Denver.

Elway went on to become a Hall of Fame player, leading the franchise to two Super Bowl victories following the 1997 and 1998 seasons. Years later, Elway won another title as the team general manager following the 2015 season.

In 2000, Beake shifted to a new position as the vice president of administration for the Broncos. He later worked for the NFL league office, serving as vice president of player development and managing director of football operations for NFL Europe.

Before his arrival in Denver, Beake worked under Hall of Fame coach Hank Stram as an offensive assistant. He coached with the Kansas City Chiefs from 1968 to 1974 and later with the New Orleans Saints from 1976 to 1977.

What it means for the next game

Denver looks toward its next matchup as the organization remembers one of its most successful executives.

Denver Broncos at Arizona Cardinals (NFL, Sun, 25 Oct): Arizona Cardinals win 31%, Denver Broncos win 69%; projected score Arizona Cardinals 20, Denver Broncos 26. Our safest pick: Broncos to win.