Rick Upchurch: Career Overview

Position: Wide Receiver (WR) Date of Birth: May 20, 1952 Team: Denver Broncos (DEN) Years Active: 1975 - 1983

Career Highlights and Accomplishments

• NFL Debut: Rick Upchurch was drafted by the Denver Broncos in 1975.
• Pro Bowl Selection: Upchurch earned a spot in the Pro Bowl in 1977, showcasing his skills as one of the top wide receivers of his time.
• All-Pro Honors: He was named a First-team All-Pro in 1976, reflecting his exceptional performance during that season.
• Kick Return Specialist: In addition to his receiving skills, Upchurch was a standout kick returner, becoming one of the best in NFL history. He was known for his explosive speed and ability to change the game's momentum.
• Franchise Records: At the time of his retirement, Upchurch held several franchise records for the Denver Broncos, including career punt return yards.
• Super Bowl Appearance: Upchurch contributed to the Broncos' playoff runs during his career, culminating in a Super Bowl appearance in Super Bowl XII.
• Retirement: He retired after the 1983 season, leaving behind a legacy as one of the most versatile players in Broncos history.

Post-Retirement

After retiring from professional football, Rick Upchurch has remained involved in the sport through various community and coaching initiatives, sharing his experience and knowledge with younger generations.

Legacy

Rick Upchurch is remembered not only for his contributions on the field but also for his dedication to the game and the impact he made on the Denver Broncos franchise during the late 1970s and early 1980s. His dual-threat capability as both a receiver and return specialist makes him a notable figure in NFL history.