Houston acquired veteran tackle Chris Clark from Denver for a…

The Exchange

Houston acquired offensive tackle Chris Clark from Denver just before the 2015 season. The Broncos received a 2016 seventh-round pick, No. 235. That selection later changed hands before Lac Edwards was drafted, so Edwards should be treated only as downstream pick history rather than a direct Denver acquisition.

Denver Broncos Return

Houston acquired veteran tackle Chris Clark from Denver for a 2016 seventh-round pick, No. 235. Clark had already started 27 games for the Broncos and immediately gave the Texans experienced swing-tackle depth. The pick later moved before Lac Edwards was selected, so Denver's direct return was draft flexibility rather than that player. Houston received several seasons from a capable offensive lineman for minimal capital, giving the Texans the better outcome.

Houston Texans Return

Denver sent Chris Clark to Houston after younger tackles had pushed him down the depth chart and received a 2016 seventh-round selection. The Broncos recovered a small future asset from a reserve they were prepared to move, but Houston obtained a veteran with starting experience who could protect multiple spots on the line. Because the price was only late-round capital and Clark provided useful service, the Texans captured more practical value from the exchange.

Value in Hindsight

The trade was sensible for Denver but more rewarding for Houston. The Broncos converted surplus depth into a future asset, which is good roster management. The Texans, however, acquired a proven NFL lineman for a pick with low expected hit rate. Clark's ability to provide actual snaps outweighed the abstract value Denver retained.

Final Verdict

Houston earns a B and Denver a C. The Broncos made a defensible move and avoided losing Clark for nothing, but the Texans received the more useful football asset at a bargain price. Houston's low-cost veteran addition wins the deal.