NFL Trade Verdict

Denver Broncos Win

Denver traded Clinton Portis to Washington for Champ Bailey and a second-round pick, turning a star running back into a Hall of Fame cornerback and extra draft capital. This is one of the defining player-for-player wins of the modern NFL. Portis remained productive in Washington, but Bailey became a Hall of Fame cornerback, perennial Pro Bowler, and the centerpiece of Denver's secondary for a decade. The trade also reflected smart roster economics: Denver moved a running back seeking a major payday for a premium defensive player at a harder-to-find position.

March 4, 2004 Denver BroncosWashington Redskins Commanders Confidence: high Tier: major

Denver Broncos Received

Trade Summary

Denver traded Clinton Portis to Washington for Champ Bailey and a second-round pick, turning a star running back into a Hall of Fame cornerback and extra draft capital. This is one of the defining player-for-player wins of the modern NFL. Portis remained productive in Washington, but Bailey became a Hall of Fame cornerback, perennial Pro Bowler, and the centerpiece of Denver's secondary for a decade. The trade also reflected smart roster economics: Denver moved a running back seeking a major payday for a premium defensive player at a harder-to-find position.

Trade Analysis

Denver traded Clinton Portis to Washington for Champ Bailey and a second-round pick, turning a star running back into a Hall of Fame cornerback and extra draft capital. This is one of the defining player-for-player wins of the modern NFL. Portis remained productive in Washington, but Bailey became a Hall of Fame cornerback, perennial Pro Bowler, and the centerpiece of Denver's secondary for a decade. The trade also reflected smart roster economics: Denver moved a running back seeking a major payday for a premium defensive player at a harder-to-find position. Washington Redskins/Commanders received Clinton Portis and gave up Champ Bailey and 2004 2nd round pick (41st overall, Tatum Bell).