A wave of admiration swept through Broncos Country this week as the organization bid farewell to a former second-round pick whose next chapter will unfold far from the gridiron. The news landed with emotion and pride throughout Colorado.
Drafted 46th overall in 2020, the young wide receiver flashed electric speed and a fearless attitude. Fans remember his big-play ability, his resilience through injury, and the infectious spirit he brought to the Mile High locker room.
But now, KJ Hamler has chosen a new path — one defined not by yards or touchdowns, but by honor, sacrifice, and service. The 26-year-old confirmed his retirement from football to join the U.S. Army, stunning teammates and supporters who had followed his journey from Penn State to Denver.
"Wearing orange and blue at Mile High taught me how to lead, how to sacrifice, and how to stand tall when it’s hardest. But now, I’m trading cleats for combat boots. I’ve joined the military — because my fight isn’t over. It’s just begun, for something greater than myself," Hamler shared in a heartfelt statement, quickly spreading across Broncos social media.
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