by Justin Michael
Al Wilson was one of the most popular players in Denver during his eight seasons with the Broncos. The former collegiate standout at the University of Tennessee was easily one of the hardest hitting players in the league, racking up 714 total tackles and 21.5 sacks in his professional career.
After a spinal injury cut Wilson’s career short, his relationship with the Broncos was not always strong. But, now having spent a decade-plus away from the franchise, Wilson has recently mended his ties to the Broncos and was on the sidelines for practice last week and Saturday night’s matchup with the Cleveland Browns.
“It feels pretty good, it feels like home,” Wilson told Eric Goodman and Les Shapiro of Mile High Sports FM 104.7 | AM 1340.
“I felt like it was about that time. Over a decade had passed and I hadn’t talked to anyone really in the organization. I’m always a Broncos fan. I love the city, love the fans, so it’s always good to be back and it’s good to be part of the organization again.”
When asked whether Wilson’s experiences with the Colorado Crush could potentially lead him into a role with Denver, either as an executive or assistant coach, Wilson joked that it is much too early to say anything like that, but acknowledged that he has learned to never say never.
Later in the interview, Wilson opened up about his relationships with some of his former Broncos teammates, including cornerback Champ Bailey. Wilson told Goodman and Shapiro that he hopes to be in Canton, OH., for Bailey’s Hall of Fame ceremony, and that No. 24 absolutely should be as first ballot inductee.
“If he’s not, it just lets you know that something is messed up with the system,” Wilson said. “He is without a doubt that guy. He deserves to be there.”
When asked about the potential of being honored in Denver’s Ring of Fame, a humble Wilson said that it would be great, but being able to play in front of the fans was enough of a reward for him.
“Just being a part of the organization and having the opportunity to go out and entertain the fans, and really become a part of the culture in Denver was pretty cool for me. That is something I’ll take with me and enjoy,” Wilson said.
Listen to the full interview with Al Wilson below:
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