Former Broncos TE With 5,115 Yards and 40 TDs Ends Season Early, Hopes to Sign a One-Day Contract With the Denver Broncos to Retire in Broncos Colors at Age 41
Denver, Colorado – January 6, 2026
A longtime veteran tight end, widely respected for his locker-room leadership and elite blocking ability, has ended his 2025 season prematurely and is reportedly hoping to sign a ceremonial one-day contract with the Denver Broncos to retire in the team’s colors and formally close out his NFL career.
The 41-year-old joined the Broncos on a one-year deal in 2025, spending most of the season on the practice squad beginning in October. He was elevated to the active roster on several occasions, appearing in four games, but did not record a reception — narrowly missing the chance to become just the second player after Jerry Rice to catch a pass in 20 different NFL seasons.
Despite the lack of on-field production, his impact was felt through veteran leadership and mentorship inside the building, contributing to Denver’s run to the No. 1 seed in the AFC. On January 5, 2026, the Broncos waived him to make room on the roster for quarterback Sam Ehlinger and offensive tackle Geron Christian. He remains connected to the organization and eligible to return to the practice squad if needed.
The player is Marcedes Lewis, one of the most durable tight ends in NFL history. Over nearly two decades in the league, Lewis earned a reputation as a premier blocking tight end and a respected voice in the locker room, valued as much for professionalism as for performance.
Speaking about his future, Lewis said:
“Denver gave me the opportunity to keep living this game late in my career. The locker room, the teammates, and the way this organization treated me made me feel respected. If the timing is right, I’d love to retire wearing Broncos colors and close this journey the right way.”
As the NFL offseason approaches, discussion has begun among Broncos fans and analysts about the possibility of Lewis returning to Denver on a symbolic one-day contract, allowing the veteran to officially retire with the franchise and bring a long, respected career to a fitting close in Broncos colors.
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