A member of the acclaimed “Orange Crush” defense for the Denver Broncos from 1974 to 1983, Gradishar was named AP Defensive Player of the Year in 1978. That season, he intercepted four passes on a unit that finished in the top six in the NFL in most defensive categories. One year earlier, he helped Denver reach Super Bowl XII. In his 11 seasons, Gradishar never missed a game, playing 151 overall. He totaled 20 interceptions and 13 fumble recoveries. He was a two-time first-team AP All-Pro and seven-time Pro Bowler.