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NEWS: Netflix Releases “The Underdog,” a Highly Anticipated Documentary About Former Denver Broncos QB John Elway, Slated for Release on June 15
Netflix has announced the upcoming release of a powerful new sports documentary titled “The Underdog,” focusing on the legendary career and personal journey of former Denver Broncos quarterback John Elway. Slated for release on June 15, the documentary has already generated buzz across the sports world and is expected to become one of the streaming giant’s biggest sports features of the year.
For fans of the NFL, Denver Broncos loyalists, and lovers of underdog stories alike, “The Underdog” promises to deliver a raw, emotional, and comprehensive look into the life and career of one of football’s most iconic figures.
A Story Years in the Making
Produced by NFL Films in collaboration with Netflix Sports, “The Underdog” chronicles John Elway’s path from a high school standout in California to Stanford University and ultimately to NFL greatness. Known for his rocket arm, elite athleticism, and intense competitive fire, Elway’s story is about more than touchdowns and trophies—it’s about resilience, reinvention, and legacy.
“This isn’t just about John Elway the quarterback,” said executive producer Ava Rodgers. “It’s about John Elway the fighter, the leader, the man who endured countless doubts and heartbreaks before finally rewriting his story on his own terms.”
The Title Says It All
The title “The Underdog” might surprise casual fans who associate Elway with Hall of Fame credentials and Super Bowl rings. But as the film makes clear, his journey was anything but easy. Drafted first overall in 1983, Elway’s early years with the Broncos were filled with promise—but also painful defeats, most notably in three Super Bowl losses during the 1980s.
Labeled as someone who “couldn’t win the big one,” Elway faced relentless criticism. Yet he persevered and, in the twilight of his career, delivered back-to-back Super Bowl victories in 1998 and 1999. The second title came in his final NFL game, allowing him to ride off into retirement on top—a feat few athletes ever achieve.
Exclusive Access and Never-Before-Seen Footage
Netflix promises that “The Underdog” will feature never-before-seen footage, including intimate interviews with Elway himself, his family, former teammates like Terrell Davis and Shannon Sharpe, and rivals such as Dan Marino and Joe Montana. Viewers will get rare insight into Elway’s mindset during pivotal moments of his career, including the infamous “The Drive” in 1987 and his emotional farewell after Super Bowl XXXIII.
The documentary also delves into Elway’s struggles off the field—his father’s influence, the pressure of expectations, and his post-retirement challenges, including a complex tenure as an NFL executive for the Broncos.
“People think of Elway as the golden boy with the cannon arm,” said former Broncos coach Mike Shanahan in one clip. “But they don’t realize how much adversity he faced. He was always fighting for something.”
The Peyton Manning Connection
Adding to the documentary’s appeal is the involvement of fellow Broncos legend Peyton Manning, who serves as a co-producer and on-screen narrator. Manning, who won a Super Bowl with the Broncos in 2016, credits Elway with helping shape the team’s modern identity and guiding his transition to Denver late in his career.
“John’s not just a legend—he’s a blueprint,” Manning says in the film. “He showed all of us what it means to fight back, to believe when nobody else does.”
A Broader Legacy
Beyond the highlight reels and stat sheets, “The Underdog” explores Elway’s broader legacy. It looks at how he helped build the Broncos into a respected franchise and how his leadership extended beyond the field. His work in Denver’s front office, including assembling the roster that won Super Bowl 50, is examined in detail, offering a dual portrait of Elway as both player and executive.
The documentary also touches on Elway’s philanthropic efforts, especially his work with children’s charities in Colorado and his advocacy for cancer research following his twin sister Jana’s battle with the disease.
Fan Anticipation Running High
Since Netflix’s announcement, excitement has been building rapidly. Sports fans have taken to social media with eager anticipation, with hashtags like #TheUnderdogDoc and #ElwayNetflix trending shortly after the trailer dropped.
“This is going to be must-watch TV,” tweeted ESPN’s Adam Schefter. “Elway’s story is the kind of epic journey Netflix was made for.”
Broncos fans, in particular, see the documentary as a long-overdue tribute to the man who helped put their team on the map.
“Elway was our heart and soul for two decades,” said Denver native James Cartwright. “I can’t wait to relive those moments and learn more about what was happening behind the scenes.”
Why Now?
The timing of the documentary’s release is no coincidence. This year marks the 25th anniversary of Elway’s final Super Bowl win and his retirement as a player. With the NFL celebrating a wave of quarterback talent in the current era, Netflix and NFL Films felt it was time to look back at one of the original greats who helped define the modern quarterback position.
“John’s story resonates now more than ever,” said director Hannah Collins. “In a time when athletes are more open about their struggles, Elway’s journey shows that even legends have to fight through darkness before they find the light.”
Final Thoughts
“The Underdog” is more than a sports documentary—it’s a human story of grit, failure, redemption, and ultimate triumph. For those who lived through Elway’s playing days, it will be a nostalgic ride. For younger viewers, it offers a crash course in why John Elway remains one of the most revered figures in football history.
Set to premiere on June 15, the film is expected to top Netflix’s charts and ignite renewed appreciation for one of the game’s most resilient icons. Whether you love the Broncos, cherish NFL history, or simply enjoy powerful storytelling, “The Underdog” promises to deliver on all fronts.
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