Everybody remembers “The Drive” when the underdog Denver Broncos came from behind to beat the Cleveland Browns 23-20 in the AFC Championship game in January 1987. How may remember that Louis Wright was “Defensive Player of the Game” with nine tackles. Wright played two weeks later in the Super Bowl loss to the New York Giants, his 11th post-season start for Denver. He had played in every Denver postseason game to that point. That Super Bowl in Pasadena proved to be his last in a Denver uniform. Wright decided over the off-season that he would move on to other things and quietly retired after 12 productive seasons.
Wright was the classic cornerback and is considered one of the best defensive backs to wear the orange jersey. He is tied for fifth with Rubin Carter in games played (166) and fourth in games started (163). His 26 career interceptions are fourth in the team record book.
Wright was name to the Pro Bowl five times—a franchise high for a defensive back.
Wright was also outstanding on special teams. In 1985, he scored a game-winning touchdown on a 60-yard return of a blocked field goal attempt against San Diego in overtime. In a nationally-televised Monday night game against Green Bay in a driving snow storm in 1984, Wright scored on a 27-yard fumble return on a Packer’s second offensive play after teammate Steve Foley had scored on a fumble return on Green Bay’s first offensive play.
1984 was arguably his most productive year. He gave up only one touchdown pass in the regular season and was named All-NFL by the Sporting News and Pro Football Weekly. He was also named by his teammates as the most valuable player on defense.
Wright becomes the fourth member of the “Orange Crush” defense to be inducted into the Hall of Fame, joining linebackers Randy Gradishar, Tom Jackson and defensive mate Billy Thompson.
Wright was a first round draft choice by Denver from San Jose Sate in 1975. In college, he capped his career with appearances in the East-West Shrine Game and the College All-Star Game.
Wright was also a collegiate track star winning two letters as a 9.6 sprinter in the 100, a 21.2 time in the 220, 47.6 in the 440, and a long jump of 25’7.”
Louis, his wife and daughters continue to make their home in the Denver area and remain active in the community.
Wright was the classic cornerback and is considered one of the best defensive backs to wear the orange jersey.