rights to John Elway

Denver acquired the rights to John Elway from Baltimore for Chris Hinton, Mark Herrmann, and a 1984 first-round pick, landing the quarterback who would define the franchise. The defining transaction in Broncos history. Denver surrendered Pro Bowl tackle Chris Hinton, quarterback Mark Herrmann, and a 1984 first-round pick that became Ron Solt to acquire John Elway's rights. Hinton became a seven-time Pro Bowler, so the Colts did not receive empty value, but Elway delivered five Super Bowl appearances, two championships, and a 16-year Hall of Fame career that transformed the franchise.