You're at Empower Field, the air is thin, the crowd is deafening, and suddenly a white blur streaks across the grass. Most people asking about the Denver Broncos mascot name are looking for a quick one-word answer. But here’s the thing: Denver is one of the few teams in the NFL that actually doubles down. They have two completely different mascots, and honestly, they couldn't be more different from each other.
One is a living, breathing powerhouse that embodies the spirit of the West. The other is a high-energy, anthropomorphic entertainer that kids absolutely lose their minds over. If you've been searching for the Denver Broncos mascot name, you're likely thinking of either Thunder or Miles.
Thunder: The Living Legend of Mile High
If you want to talk about "human-like" quality in a horse, you’ve got to start with Thunder. He isn't just a mascot; he's a local celebrity. Since 1993, a grey Arabian horse has taken the field to lead the charge. This isn't just a horse standing on the sidelines looking pretty. Every time the Broncos score a touchdown, Thunder gallops from one end zone to the other at full tilt.
It’s a sight to see. His mane flies, the ground literally shakes, and the crowd goes absolutely wild.
But "Thunder" isn't just one horse. It's a legacy. The role has been passed down through generations. The current horse performing the duties is actually Thunder III, though his "civilian" name is Me N MyShadow. He’s a purebred Arabian gelding, and he’s been at this since roughly 2014. Before him, Thunder II (Winter Solstyce) held the reins, and the original Thunder I started the whole tradition back in the early '90s.
What it’s like behind the scenes for Thunder
A lot of people don’t realize the level of training it takes for a horse to handle an NFL stadium. Think about it. There are 76,000 screaming fans, pyrotechnics, massive speakers, and cheerleaders waving giant flags. Most horses would bolt for the exit.
Thunder is different.
- He wears custom earplugs to muffle the roar of the stadium.
- His trainer, Ann Judge, has worked with the program for decades.
- He travels in a custom "Thunder-mobile" trailer that’s basically a five-star hotel for horses, complete with climate control.
Honestly, it's pretty wild how much work goes into those few seconds of galloping after a touchdown. But for Broncos fans, that gallop is the heartbeat of the game.
🔗 Read more: Judo and Javelin: Why These Sports Beginning with J Are Still Dominating the Olympic Stage
Miles: The Face of the Franchise
Now, if you saw a big, fluffy orange-and-blue horse mascot high-fiving kids and doing backflips, that’s Miles.
Miles was introduced in 2001, though his "origin story" (if you're into that sort of thing) says he was born at the foothills of the Rockies during a massive thunderstorm. It’s a bit cheesy, sure, but it works. While Thunder is about the majestic, serious side of being a "Bronco," Miles is all about the entertainment.
He’s the one you’ll see at charity events, hospital visits, and school assemblies. He’s got the big personality, the goofy dance moves, and the ability to interact with fans in a way a live animal just can't.
Why have two?
It’s a fair question. Why do the Broncos need both a live horse and a guy in a suit? Basically, it’s about covering all bases. Thunder provides that "wow" factor during the game—that visceral connection to the team's identity. Miles handles the "community ambassador" side of things.
You can’t exactly bring a 1,000-pound Arabian horse into a classroom to promote a reading program (though that would be awesome). Miles, however, can walk right through the front door.
The Controversy You Didn't Know About
It hasn't always been smooth sailing. Years ago, there were debates about whether having a live animal on the field was too dangerous or "outdated." Some critics thought the noise was too much for the animal.
However, the Broncos and the horse's owner, Sharon Magness Blake, have been extremely transparent about the horse’s welfare. They use positive reinforcement and desensitization training that takes years. Seeing Thunder III stand perfectly calm while a jet flyover happens overhead is proof enough that these animals are built for this.
How to Tell the Difference (If You’re New)
If you’re heading to a game and want to sound like an expert, just remember this:
- Thunder is the real horse. He’s white/grey and runs after touchdowns.
- Miles is the costumed character. He’s orange and blue and does the "Macarena" on the dugout.
It’s actually pretty cool that Denver keeps both traditions alive. Most teams choose one or the other. For example, the Kansas City Chiefs have "Warpaint" (their live horse) and "KC Wolf" (their costumed mascot). Denver follows a similar blueprint, ensuring that whether you want majesty or a mascot who can dab, they’ve got you covered.
Actionable Tips for Your Next Broncos Game
If you really want to experience the mascots properly, here is what you should do:
- Get to the stadium early. Thunder usually makes an appearance on the field about 15-20 minutes before kickoff for the pre-game ceremonies.
- Look for Miles on the sidelines. He spends a lot of time near the end zones during the first and second quarters interacting with fans in the lower bowls.
- Stay for the touchdowns. Obviously. But keep your eyes on the north end zone. That’s where Thunder starts his run. If you blink, you’ll miss him—he’s fast.
Knowing the Denver Broncos mascot name is one thing, but understanding the legacy of Thunder and the community impact of Miles makes you a real fan. Whether you prefer the raw power of the Arabian gelding or the comedic timing of the blue-maned costumed horse, the Broncos have one of the most unique mascot setups in professional sports.
To get the most out of your game day experience, check the official Broncos app for "Mascot Appearances" schedules, as Miles often does meet-and-greets at the Mane Street fan zone before the gates even open.