Former Broncos, Jets Kicker Jim Turner Dies at 82
Former NFL kicker Jim Turner, a member of the Broncos’ Ring of Fame, has died at age 82, his family announced Monday. The news that he had died due to heart failure with his family by his side Saturday was first reported by KUSA-TV in Denver.
“We are deeply saddened by the passing of Denver Broncos Ring of Fame kicker, Jim Turner,” a statement from the Broncos read. “Retiring as the second-leading scorer in NFL history, Jim was instrumental in helping establish the Broncos’ winning tradition in the 1970s as a key member of our first Super Bowl team. While his competitive spirit and reliability defined him as a player, Jim’s dedicated mentorship and support of youth following his career will leave a lasting legacy within our community.”
Washington selected Turner in the 1963 NFL draft, but he never played for the team. Instead, he signed signed with the Jets of the rival AFL, for whom he would play seven seasons. He was named to two AFL All-Star teams with the Jets and famously kicked three field goals in New York’s Super Bowl III victory over the Baltimore Colts.
Turner was traded to the Broncos after the 1970 season and played nine seasons for Denver. He recorded 304 made field goals and 1,439 career points. He never missed a game over the course of his 16-season pro career.
