Signed as an undrafted free agent out of Temple in 1979, Steve Watson entered pro football with zero fanfare, yet developed into one of the most productive deep threats in franchise history. After working his way up through special teams, Watson earned a starting role at wide receiver in 1981 and immediately took the league by storm.

Watson's breakout 1981 season saw him catch 60 passes for 1,244 yards, leading the NFL with a staggering 20.7 yards per catch and a league-best 13 receiving touchdowns. That stellar performance earned him his sole career Pro Bowl selection and Second-Team All-Pro honors, establishing him as the focal point of Denver's passing attack.

He remained a high-volume weapon as John Elway assumed the quarterback reins in 1983. Watson posted back-to-back 1,000-yard campaigns in 1984 (1,170 yards) and 1985 (1,157 yards), placing him in the top ten league-wide in receiving yards in both seasons. His ability to track deep passes downfield provided Elway with a trusted target during the early signature drives of his career.

Watson served as a key contributor on two AFC Championship squads, starting at wide receiver in Super Bowl XXI and appearing in Super Bowl XXII. A steady veteran presence until his retirement after the 1987 season, he walked away ranked near the top of every major receiving category in team history.

Watson played in 126 games with 353 receptions, 6,112 receiving yards, and 36 receiving touchdowns.