Denver sent picks No. 87 and No. 120 to Cleveland to jump…
Denver sent picks No. 87 and No. 120 to Cleveland to jump twenty spots for Ronnie Hillman at No. 67. Hillman became a useful four-year Broncos runner and led the 2015 Super Bowl champions in regular-season rushing. Cleveland used its selections on John Hughes and James-Michael Johnson, with Hughes developing into a rotational defensive tackle. The Browns found some value, but Hillman's role on a championship offense gives Denver the edge.
Denver Broncos Received
- pick 2012 3rd round pick (67th overall, Ronnie Hillman)
Cleveland Browns Received
- pick 2012 3rd round pick (87th overall, John Hughes)
- pick 2012 4th round pick (120th overall, James-Michael Johnson)
Trade Analysis
Why Denver Jumped Twenty Spots
After trading down twice on the first night of the 2012 draft, Denver reversed course in the third round. The Broncos sent No. 87 and fourth-rounder No. 120 to Cleveland for No. 67 and selected San Diego State running back Ronnie Hillman. Denver wanted an explosive back and did not believe he would last to its original slot.
What Cleveland Collected
The Browns used No. 87 on defensive tackle John Hughes and No. 120 on linebacker James-Michael Johnson. Hughes became the better return, appearing in 53 games for Cleveland and starting at times along the defensive front. Johnson lasted only one season with the Browns before moving elsewhere. The trade-down therefore produced useful depth but no cornerstone.
How Hillman's Denver Career Developed
Hillman played four seasons for the Broncos. His role grew after two years as a complementary back, and he delivered his best season in 2015 with 863 rushing yards and seven touchdowns. Denver went on to win Super Bowl 50, and Hillman carried a significant regular-season workload for that championship club.
Why the Championship Context Matters
Hillman was not a star for a decade, so this should not be graded like a franchise-changing steal. He did, however, give Denver meaningful offensive production during its most important season of the era. Cleveland's return was respectable but never had a comparable peak.
Final Verdict
Denver Broncos Win. Hillman's four-year contribution and 2015 production earn Denver a B+. Cleveland receives a B- because Hughes became a legitimate rotational player, keeping the trade from becoming one-sided.