It's been used too many times, but in this case it applies.  Who specifically is in a position to "give" Elway part ownership?  The team is currently in the hands of 3 trustees (one of whom is Ellis).  Part of the role of the trustees is to "vet" any family members who step up and want to own the team.  If the trustees don't find any of them qualified, something else kicks in which (I think?) is a general sale.  All of this has gone beyond the time frame originally intended.  But an article I read yesterday implied trustees can't hand over anything to a third party.   

What's amusing is if Elway is gunning for Ellis's job.  Now there's a convo that would be worth overhearing!