In this age of multimillionaire athletes, more than a few of questionable character, Al Wilson was a giant on the Colorado sports scene, both in terms of character and talent.
His departure from the Denver Broncos is disheartening for fans, but he softened the shock with such a gracious exit.
The heart of the team’s defense the past eight years, Wilson now is saddled with a huge contract and a nagging neck injury.
He announced his own departure at a news conference last Friday, and thanked fans with a full-page message in Sunday’s Denver Post. Wilson showed understanding, loyalty and class.
At a time when the NFL commissioner is cracking down on players whose off-field exploits mar the league image, Wilson proves that, yes, professional athletes still can be among the best of role models.
“As a player, you know this day is going to come eventually,” Wilson said.
“You just don’t know when. For me, time was definitely ticking as far as me leaving Denver. It happens, man, that’s the way of the world. You have to take the good with the bad.”
In his final talk with Coach Mike Shanahan, Wilson told him that he wished the franchise “nothing but the best and nothing but success.”
“Sometimes it comes down to that; unfortunately, that’s the way it is. You have to do what’s best for your organization, just like any Fortune 500 company, any major corporation, sometimes you have to let good employees go,” he said.
In the letter to Bronco fans printed in Sunday’s paper, Wilson wrote:
“The last eight years of my and my family’s life have been special because of you. You have opened your arms and your hearts to us and we will never forget it.
“Your support, enthusiasm, love and dedication are gifts I will carry with me my entire life. The fans and people of Denver have treated me better than I could ever have hoped for …
“I plan on making Denver a significant part of my future plans and will endeavor for the rest of my days to find a way to thank each and every one of you for all that you have done for me and my family.
“You cheered me for eight years and now I cheer for you for the rest of my life.”
Just wait a minute, Al – we’re not done cheering for you yet.
