Denver sent wide receiver and return specialist Ike Hill to…
Denver sent wide receiver and return specialist Ike Hill to Chicago on August 2, 1973 for $1. The Bears received two seasons of useful special-teams and depth value from a player acquired for nominal cash.
Denver Broncos Received
- other $1 cash
Chicago Bears Received
- player Ike Hill
Trade Analysis
The Exchange
Chicago's all-time trade ledger lists the August 2, 1973 acquisition of Ike Hill from Denver for exactly $1. The Bears' 1974 media guide independently says Hill joined Chicago in a trade from Denver during the 1973 preseason.
Chicago Return
Hill played all 14 games in 1973 and 13 more in 1974. In his first Bears season he caught 10 passes for 119 yards, returned 27 kickoffs for 637 yards and a touchdown, and returned 36 punts for 204 yards and another touchdown. The Bears' own 1974 guide specifically highlighted his 95-yard kickoff return against Houston and 59-yard punt-return score against Dallas.
Second Season
Hill remained a useful return and reserve receiver in 1974, adding seven catches for 109 yards and a touchdown while again handling punt returns. He was not a high-volume offensive starter, but Chicago received two full seasons of roster and special-teams value.
Denver Return
Denver received one dollar. That fully identifies the consideration but leaves no meaningful football or draft asset to compare with Hill's two Chicago seasons.
Final Verdict
Chicago Bears Win, B to C. Hill was a modest player rather than a star, so the Bears grade stays short of the top range, but two seasons and multiple return touchdowns for a one-dollar cost create a clear win.