Denver acquired safety Bernard Jackson from Cincinnati for…
Denver acquired safety Bernard Jackson from Cincinnati for 1978 third- and seventh-round selections. Jackson became a multi-year Broncos starter, appearing in 46 games with 42 starts during his Denver tenure. Cincinnati used the third-rounder on Don Bass, who developed into a productive receiver, while the seventh-rounder became Danny Bass. Both sides gained value, but Denver's starting defensive return earns a narrow edge.
Cincinnati Bengals Received
- pick 1978 third round pick (#83-Don Bass)
- pick 1978 seventh round pick (#193-Danny Bass)
Denver Broncos Received
- player Bernard Jackson (Frank)
Trade Analysis
The Exchange
Cincinnati sent defensive back Bernard Jackson to Denver on March 16, 1977 for third- and seventh-round selections in the 1978 draft. Bengals records identify those choices as No. 83 Don Bass and No. 193 Danny Bass.
What Denver Broncos Received
Jackson became a significant part of Denver's defense rather than a temporary roster piece. NFL records show 46 games and 42 starts during his Broncos tenure, including a major role in the club's late-1970s defensive success. That is strong direct value from two future draft choices outside the first two rounds.
What Cincinnati Bengals Received
Cincinnati's return was not empty. Don Bass developed into a productive receiver, finishing his NFL career with 117 receptions, 1,580 receiving yards, and 13 touchdowns. Danny Bass did not create the same level of value, but the third-round selection alone gave Cincinnati a legitimate contributor.
How the Value Developed
This became a productive exchange for both teams. Cincinnati converted one veteran into two selections and found an NFL receiver. Denver used those picks to obtain an established defensive starter who filled a high-volume role immediately and stayed in the lineup for multiple seasons.
Why the Difference Matters
The outcome should not be graded as a lopsided win because Don Bass gave Cincinnati real production. Denver receives the edge because Jackson's 42 starts supplied greater certainty and sustained defensive value during an important competitive window.
Final Verdict
Denver receives a B+ and Cincinnati receives a B-. The final call is Denver Broncos Win, but both clubs can reasonably view the transaction as productive.