Tonight, the Denver Broncos are donning their “Summit White” uniforms for their Thursday Night Football showdown against the Los Angeles Chargers. While fans likely noticed their new-look jerseys and pants, they also may have noticed the “5280” on every helmet. Let’s examine why the Broncos wear this number on their helmets.
Broncos Get New Uniforms for 2024 Season
The Broncos unveiled new uniforms over the offseason, dubbed “The Mile High Collection.” These included new jerseys and pants, as well as updated helmets.
The Broncos’ official website described them as “metallic satin helmets in navy (home/away) and white (alternate)” that “feature a stripe of triangle clusters from the base of the helmets to the middle of the crown, symbolizing Denver’s peak in elevation.”
This is also where the 5280 comes from. It is a reference to Denver’s famous elevation, which is a mile in altitude and one of the most difficult places to play in the NFL.
The 5280 number is also on the back collar of the uniforms.
A new era forged by #BroncosCountry. pic.twitter.com/LaK3ZfsoZ9
— Denver Broncos (@Broncos) April 22, 2024
The Broncos unveiled their new-look uniforms in August, and they were a hit with fans who appreciated the nods to the region.
“Our new uniforms – the Mile High Collection – boldly integrate elements of our past, present, and future while paying tribute to Colorado and the Rocky Mountain Region we proudly call home,” Broncos president Damani Leech said.
The “Mile High Collection” debuted in Week 10 vs. Kansas City. Their Week 16 game against the Chargers marks the fourth time that they have worn their “Summit White” jerseys.
What makes these uniforms different from their normal white uniforms is the use of white socks as opposed to navy socks. They also have special “Summit White” helmets, which they also wore for their Monday Night Football matchup with the Cleveland Browns earlier this season.
Players seem most excited about the white helmets.
“These hard,” running back Javonte Williams enthusiastically proclaimed. “I like the white helmets and the blue jerseys.”