Let’s not pretend the Broncos love us back

Reacting to: Renck: Why Broncos owners using PSLs is better than shifting new stadium costs to taxpayers

The problem with Troy’s column is that it treats the new stadium initiative as if it were a force of nature, and that the owners aren’t shoving this down the throats of all Broncos fans. Seven other stadiums opened within the same 5-year window (Bucs, Ravens, Bengals, Steelers, Lions, Texans, Patriots, and Eagles), and none of those teams are talking about new buildings. The original Mile High was 50+ years old when it was replaced; this is the 25th season in the new stadium. Ownership is going to demand the construction of a stadium no fan asked for; don’t tell me that the warm liquid on my leg is rain, Troy.

Starting with that premise, Troy’s asserting that it’s a binary choice: tax burden or PSLs. While I appreciate the on-field moves Walton-Penner is making, celebrating their ownership ignores that ticket prices have increased 88% since they bought the team (at least in my lower-level South Stands seats). Between last year’s playoff run and the 2026 price hike (11%), our family canceled vacation to keep affording the tickets (first-world problems, I know).

Yes, the NFL is a business, and owners can do whatever the hell they want, including exploiting their loyal fans who make great sacrifices to support their team. No one is forcing me to buy tickets, but fans like me give time and money to love the Broncos. Let’s stop pretending that this team loves us back.