John Elway | Legends of The Hobby

A Look at the Gunslinger’s Career and Cards

John Elway remains one of the most talented athletes in modern American history. The man who could have been the Yankees Right Fielder, chose instead to carve out a legacy as one of the most electrifying quarterbacks to ever play. To celebrate Elway’s collaboration with Bowman (and Larry David), let’s take a look at one of the great names of the football Hobby – the Comeback Kid – who rode off into the sunset.

2024 Bowman Draft Baseball Elway Dream Draft

The Legend Grows: Two-Sport Star

What if Elway had opted for pinstripes, and signed up to play outfield for MLB‘s most storied franchise? Some scouts were drooling at his potential both at the plate and in the field (he had a great arm, if you can imagine). But the pull of the pigskin was too much. And, there’s little doubt Elway chose right. When the NFL came calling, Elway was ready.

2005 Topps All-Time Fan Favorites #15 John Elway

Top of His Class

The 1983 draft contains perhaps the most famous quarterback class of all-time, but there was no question who was at the top. In 2021, draft guru Mel Kiper Jr. wrote that Elway remained his highest quarterback evaluation of all-time. “In my final evaluation, Elway received the highest grades one can achieve in all categories.” Unsurprisingly, his rookie card remains highly sought-after, with a September sale fetching over eight thousand dollars.

1984 Topps Football #358 John Elway RC

The Legend Grows

By 1986 he was already one of the best quarterbacks in the game. But, on January 11, 1987, Elway took things to another level. Down 20-13 late in the conference championship to Cleveland. 15 plays, 98 yards it is known only, as The Drive. His clutch play, his showmanship, his ability to create something out of nothing – these were the traits of The Comeback Kid.

1985 Topps Football #238 John Elway

Can Elway Win the Big One?

Elway dominated the AFC in the late eighties, leading Denver to three Super Bowls in four seasons, including his 1987 MVP year. But, Elway and Denver could not get over the hump. While Elway would continue to shine, he would not make it back to the big game until he was 37.

2015 Topps Definitive Collection  #AIC-JE John Elway Auto Inscription /10

Back-to-Back, and Gone

The end to Elway’s career has to be something approaching the platonic ideal. Three straight Pro Bowls, a record of 35-8, a 7-1 playoff record – and two rings. His first championship game in almost a decade was a classic – fending off younger gunslinger Brett Favre in a battle that included a signature play of Elway’s career – the Helicopter Dive. 37 years old, scrambling for a first down, spinning in the air, it was clear that this time, Elway would not be denied.

A year later, Elway was back in the big game – throwing for 336 yards in a win over Atlanta. Now back-to-back champion, Elway claimed Super Bowl MVP for his brilliant last act.

2013 Topps Supreme Football #SDA-EM John Elway/Peyton Manning Dual Auto /20

More RIPPED & John Elway

• First Look | 2024 Bowman Draft Baseball Elway Dream Draft
• John Elway’s “Dreamiest” Cards to Collect