Having played 96 games with 26 sacks, 186 solo tackles, and 83 assists, it would be easy to for an NFL Defensive Lineman to be considered accomplished and content. Add a Super Bowl (50) ring to the resume, and that’s the proverbial “icing on the cake.”

For Derek Wolfe, he remains unsatisfied and hungry. Headed into his 8th season as a Denver Bronco, Wolfe is among the 5 remaining players from the Super Bowl 50 Championship roster. After hiring defensive mastermind Vic Fangio as Head Coach, Wolfe immediately supported his new head coach declaring, “I think he’s exactly the type of coach this team needs.”

#Broncos @Derek_Wolfe95's terrific insight. Told #Denver7 on Fangio, "I think he's exactly the type of coach this team needs. I couldn't be more excited about potential this team has. If we play cleaner, more disciplined football I think we we win a lot more of those close games" pic.twitter.com/UMvCYHnemv — Troy Renck (@TroyRenck) January 10, 2019

As John Elway and the Broncos brass decided to pick up Wolfe’s $1 million option, it’s clear that Wolfe is exactly the type of player the Broncos need. Rather than lobbying for a Pro Bowl bid, or tallying stats, Wolfe prefers to prioritize winning and respecting the game. Super Bowl 50 MVP Von Miller recognizes all the dirty work Wolfe does to assist his fierce pass rush.

In 2018, Von Miller broke Simon Fletcher’s all time Bronco’s sack record and was quick to praise Wolfe. “It’s a great accomplishment and I got to do it with [Derek] Wolfe. “It was ironic because I ran a game with Wolfe. That’s just how our relationship has been. He’s been running the game with me. It’s like Dirk [Nowitzki] and Steve Nash. He’s gotten me open and he’s helped me out to get sacks 50 million times. Shout out to Wolfe for being a great teammate and being a great brother as well.”

Last season, Wolfe started all 16 games, showcasing his availability and toughness in the trenches. His ability to practice discipline, professionalism, and accountability make him an ideal asset for John Elway.

His leadership and performance continue to command the respect of his teammates and coaches. With that said it is time for the Broncos to embroider the letter, “C,” to Wolfe’s iconic #95 jersey.