Training Camp Evolves: From Modest Beginnings to Renovation-Driven Changes

The Denver Broncos' training camp has undergone significant changes, especially in terms of facilities and fan attendance. Currently, due to ongoing renovations at Broncos Park powered by CommonSpirit, spectator capacity during practices is limited to 800 seats in the endzone bleachers, with the grass berm—which once accommodated around 3,000 fans—being excavated for construction work. This is a notable shift from the past. Back in the summer of 1979, when I regularly attended training sessions, the scene was quite different. During that period, the Broncos practiced at Colorado State University in Fort Collins, and I, as a student, often brought my books, sitting on the cool grass to study while watching players vie for roster spots. Attendance was modest then, with only a few fans present, and my focus was more on rookie performances. The 1979 draft class was filled with players who ultimately didn't make a lasting impact—first-round pick Kelvin Clark played only three seasons; third-rounder Bruce Radford and others didn't survive training camp. The standout from that draft was seventh-round punter Luke Prestridge, who contributed for five years. Amidst the struggles of the dr...