Steve Tensi, the quarterback who threw the first touchdown pass in the Broncos’ inaugural NFL game in 1970, passed away in his hometown of Boone, North Carolina, at the age of 81, as announced by the team. Tensi was acquired by the Broncos in 1967 from the Chargers and started in 32 games over four seasons before retiring due to injuries.
In his first season with Denver, Tensi threw a career-high 16 touchdown passes in 1967. He also had a career-best touchdown-to-interception ratio in 1969, with 12 starts. Tensi ranked in the top five in the AFL in passing touchdowns and passer rating in 1969.
Steve Tensi was initially drafted by the AFL’s Chargers as the 30th overall pick and by the NFL’s Colts as the 224th overall pick. He chose to sign with the Chargers to begin his AFL career.
Following his retirement from professional football, Tensi served as a quarterbacks coach for Wichita State University for two seasons. He then coached wide receivers for the World Football League’s Chicago Fire. After his coaching career, Tensi transitioned to a career in construction, starting in Miami, Florida, before relocating to Boone, North Carolina, in 1988.
Tensi’s achievements were recognized with his induction into the Florida State Athletics Hall of Fame in 1981 and the Gator Bowl Hall of Fame in 1995.
He was married to his wife, Barbara Jean, for 61 years and is survived by siblings Marilyn, David, and Larry, as well as children Barbara, Steve Jr., Holly, and Jonathan, along with numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
A celebration of life for Tensi will be held on March 23 in Boone. In lieu of flowers, the family has requested donations to be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.
