Broncos Players Face Six-Figure Tax Increases After Colorado's Amendment 87 Vote

The Denver Broncos are enjoying a successful season, but a decision by Colorado voters could have significant financial consequences for nearly their entire roster.

Amendment 87, approved by Colorado voters in Tuesday's election, will replace Colorado's flat 4.4% state income tax with a graduated system featuring a top marginal rate of 8.4%.

The changes, scheduled to take effect January 1, could cost some Broncos players hundreds of thousands of dollars annually.

According to Mike Klis of 9NEWS, 52 of Denver's 53 active players earn more than $1 million this season.

Klis estimates that linebacker Alex Singleton would owe approximately $258,325 more in annual state income taxes under the new system.

A player earning $10 million annually could face an additional $358,325 in taxes, although actual liabilities depend on taxable income and individual circumstances.

The new tax structure will increase marginal rates on income above $500,000 while reducing rates for lower-income taxpayers. Additional revenue would support education, health care and early childhood programs.

Despite voting against the amendment, Singleton acknowledged the potential benefits.

"I'd pay 100 percent of my salary if everything got taken care of," Singleton told Klis.

Singleton, who has a sister with Down syndrome, explained that his family has seen the benefits of government-funded assistance programs.

Offensive tackle Mike McGlinchey, who earns $17.5 million annually, expressed a similarly measured response.

"I understand how we need to do our part," McGlinchey said.

Backup quarterback Jarrett Stidham also accepted the situation, noting that he previously dealt with high state income taxes while playing in New England.

Defensive tackle Zach Allen emphasized that the change wouldn't affect his commitment to Denver.

"I'm very happy to be a Bronco and that's all that matters," Allen said.

The amendment also raises questions about Denver's ability to compete financially with franchises in states without individual income taxes, including the Raiders, Cowboys and Dolphins.

However, players already face varying state tax obligations because of road games, making the overall financial impact more complicated than simply comparing top rates.

The Broncos have emerged as AFC West contenders, winning six of their first eight games.

And despite ongoing offensive concerns, Denver enters Sunday's matchup against Carolina riding a four-game winning streak.

For now, the players interviewed by Klis appear focused on continuing that success rather than their impending tax bills.