Denver acquired quarterback Brady Quinn from Cleveland for…
Denver acquired quarterback Brady Quinn from Cleveland for Peyton Hillis plus two future picks, a 2011 sixth-rounder and a conditional 2012 choice that became a fifth-rounder. Quinn never became Denver's answer at quarterback. Hillis, meanwhile, erupted for a 1,000-yard rushing season in Cleveland and became the most productive immediate asset in the deal. The added draft capital pushes this heavily toward the Browns.
Denver Broncos Received
- player Brady Quinn
Cleveland Browns Received
- player Peyton Hillis
- pick 2011 6th round pick (168th overall, Demarcus Love , subsequently traded)
- pick 2012 5th round pick (160th overall, Ryan Miller )
Trade Analysis
The Exchange
Denver traded for Brady Quinn in March 2010, sending Cleveland running back Peyton Hillis, a 2011 sixth-round selection and a conditional 2012 draft choice. The later condition became a fifth-rounder. Denver was searching for quarterback upside, while Cleveland chose to move on from a former first-round passer and collect both a player and future draft capital.
Denver Broncos Return
Quinn never became the solution Denver hoped to uncover. He spent two seasons with the Broncos without developing into their long-term starter, and the club soon moved forward with other quarterback plans. The appeal of buying low on a former first-round pick was understandable, but the actual return was limited. Denver surrendered multiple assets for a player who did not materially improve the position.
Cleveland Browns Return
Hillis immediately transformed the perception of the trade. In 2010 he rushed for more than 1,000 yards, contributed as a receiver and became one of Cleveland's most recognizable players. His peak with the Browns was brief, but it was far more productive than Quinn's Denver tenure. Cleveland also received the 2011 sixth-round pick and the 2012 fifth-round selection, adding two more chances to extract roster value.
Value in Hindsight
The difference is unusually clear for a trade built around two players whose careers were uncertain at the time. Denver's quarterback gamble produced little, while Cleveland received an immediate breakout season from Hillis and two additional selections. Hillis did not sustain that level for many years, but the Browns did not need a long prime for the exchange to favor them comfortably.
Final Verdict
Cleveland earns an A and Denver a D. The Browns received the best on-field performance and the deeper asset package. Denver's upside bet on Quinn never materialized, making this one of the cleaner Browns wins of the period.