How Many Super Bowls Did John Elway Win? Answer & Career Breakdown

By Sarah Miller · April 28, 2046

John Elway won two Super Bowls during his legendary NFL career, both as the starting quarterback for the Denver Broncos: Super Bowl XXXII and Super Bowl XXXIII.

John Elway's Super Bowl Victories

John Elway, one of the most iconic quarterbacks in NFL history, captured his first Super Bowl victory late in his career after several previous setbacks. His two wins came in consecutive seasons at the end of the 1997 and 1998 campaigns, cementing his legacy as a clutch performer when it mattered most.

Super Bowl XXXII: Breaking Through

Date: January 25, 1998
Opponent: Green Bay Packers
Final Score: Denver Broncos 31 – Green Bay Packers 24
Location: Qualcomm Stadium, San Diego, California
Elway's Stats: 12/22 passing, 123 yards, 1 TD; 2 rushes, 17 yards, 1 TD

This victory was particularly significant because it was Elway’s first Super Bowl win after losing in four previous appearances (XXI, XXII, XXIV, XXX). The Broncos defeated the defending champion Packers, led by Brett Favre, ending a long championship drought for the franchise.

Super Bowl XXXIII: Going Out on Top

Date: January 31, 1999
Opponent: Atlanta Falcons
Final Score: Denver Broncos 34 – Atlanta Falcons 19
Location: Pro Player Stadium, Miami, Florida
Elway's Stats: 18/29 passing, 336 yards, 1 TD; 4 rushes, 1 rushing TD
Honors: Super Bowl MVP

In his final NFL game, Elway delivered a masterclass performance, earning Super Bowl MVP honors. He became the oldest quarterback to win and start in a Super Bowl at age 38, leading the Broncos to back-to-back titles and solidifying his Hall of Fame credentials.

John Elway's Complete Super Bowl Appearances

While Elway won two Super Bowls, he appeared in five total throughout his career. Below is a detailed breakdown of all his Super Bowl games, including losses and victories.

Super Bowl	Date	Opponent	Result	Elway's Role	Passing Yards	Passing TD	Rushing TD
XXI	Jan 25, 1987	New York Giants	Loss (39–20)	Starting QB	304	1	0
XXII	Jan 31, 1988	Washington Redskins	Loss (42–10)	Starting QB	257	2	0
XXIV	Jan 28, 1990	San Francisco 49ers	Loss (55–10)	Starting QB	261	2	0
XXX	Jan 26, 1997	Dallas Cowboys	Loss (37–29)	Starting QB	198	2	0
XXXII	Jan 25, 1998	Green Bay Packers	Win (31–24)	Starting QB	123	1	1
XXXIII	Jan 31, 1999	Atlanta Falcons	Win (34–19)	Starting QB, MVP	336	1	1

Table data source:1, 2

The table highlights Elway’s resilience over time. Despite losing his first four Super Bowl appearances, he adapted his game and led dominant performances in his final two starts. His 336 passing yards and dual-threat capability in Super Bowl XXXIII were instrumental in securing MVP honors and a perfect exit from professional football.

Frequently Asked Questions About John Elway and His Super Bowl Wins

How many Super Bowls did John Elway win?

John Elway won two Super Bowls: Super Bowl XXXII and Super Bowl XXXIII, both with the Denver Broncos as their starting quarterback.

Did John Elway win a Super Bowl before retiring?

Yes, John Elway won Super Bowl XXXIII in his final NFL game, defeating the Atlanta Falcons and earning Super Bowl MVP honors at age 38.

What years did John Elway win the Super Bowl?

John Elway won the Super Bowl in the 1997 season (Super Bowl XXXII, played in January 1998) and the 1998 season (Super Bowl XXXIII, played in January 1999).

Was John Elway ever named Super Bowl MVP?

Yes, John Elway was named Super Bowl MVP for Super Bowl XXXIII after throwing for 336 yards and one touchdown and rushing for another touchdown in the Broncos' 34–19 victory.

How many times did John Elway play in the Super Bowl?

John Elway played in five Super Bowls (XXI, XXII, XXIV, XXX, XXXII, and XXXIII), making him one of only a few quarterbacks to start in that many championship games.