Denver acquired veteran cornerback Ben Smith from…
Denver acquired veteran cornerback Ben Smith from Philadelphia on April 18, 1994, sending the Eagles third- and fifth-round choices in the next two drafts. Smith immediately started 14 games for Denver in 1994, but the Eagles ultimately turned the two picks into receiver Chris Jones and linebacker Whit Marshall. Philadelphia's return lasted longer, giving the Eagles a narrow overall edge.
Denver Broncos Received
- player Ben Smith
Philadelphia Eagles Received
- pick 1995 3rd round pick (78th overall, Chris Jones )
- pick 1996 5th round pick (147th overall, Whit Marshall)
Trade Analysis
Why the Deal Happened
Denver was looking for experienced secondary help before the 1994 season and acquired Ben Smith, a former Philadelphia first-round pick, for two future selections. The structure shows a clear difference in timelines: Denver prioritized an established cornerback who could play immediately, while Philadelphia accepted a 1995 third-rounder and a 1996 fifth-rounder and waited for the return to mature. Smith gave the Broncos exactly the short-term role they were buying, so the price was not unreasonable.
What Each Team Received
Smith started 14 games for Denver in 1994 and intercepted one pass, giving the Broncos a useful season from the veteran. Philadelphia's 1995 third-round choice became wide receiver Chris Jones at No. 78, and its 1996 fifth-rounder became linebacker Whit Marshall at No. 147. Jones went on to play 32 NFL games and caught 80 passes for 993 yards and five touchdowns. Marshall played 16 games, adding another modest piece to the Eagles' return.
How the Value Developed
The trade never produced a star, which keeps both grades in the middle. Denver received immediate starting snaps but only a short window of meaningful value from Smith. Philadelphia received two chances to replenish the roster and got a legitimate receiving contributor from Jones plus depth from Marshall. The Eagles' advantage comes from aggregate and duration rather than a dramatic peak. Denver's decision still made football sense because Smith filled a present need and played extensively right away.
Final Verdict
Philadelphia Eagles Win. Denver earns a C+ because Smith was a real one-season starter rather than a failed acquisition. Philadelphia earns a B- because the two future choices produced more total career value, led by Jones. The outcome is close enough that neither side deserves an extreme grade, but the Eagles converted one veteran into two younger assets and came away with the stronger long-term return.