Indianapolis Colts received Cassius Vaughn, while Denver…
Indianapolis Colts received Cassius Vaughn, while Denver Broncos received Chris Gronkowski. Vaughn played 32 games with 15 starts and four interceptions for Indianapolis; Gronkowski spent one season as a reserve fullback in Denver. The hindsight grades are A- for Indianapolis Colts and C- for Denver Broncos, producing a Indianapolis Colts Win verdict.
Denver Broncos Received
- player Chris Gronkowski
Indianapolis Colts Received
- player Cassius Vaughn
Trade Analysis
The Exchange
Indianapolis Colts received Cassius Vaughn, while Denver Broncos received Chris Gronkowski. The clubs made the straight player-for-player swap on May 23, 2012. The fairest hindsight test is the actual roster service and durable asset value created by each side compared with the cost surrendered.
Indianapolis Colts Return
For Indianapolis Colts, the acquired return was Cassius Vaughn. Vaughn played all 32 regular-season games for Indianapolis over the next two years with 15 starts and four interceptions, while Gronkowski spent one season as a reserve fullback in Denver. That result drives a A- grade. The assessment rests on demonstrated playing time, later asset conversion, or immediate consideration rather than assumed value. Because this is a minor transaction, the grade stays proportional to the limited stakes.
Denver Broncos Return
Denver Broncos came away with Chris Gronkowski. The useful comparison is what the club ultimately retained from the deal, not the incoming name's apparent value on the transaction date. Regular-season snaps, a later pick, or certain cash value count when they materialized; the grade falls when the acquired piece produced little or nothing afterward. That record supports a C- for this side.
Value in Hindsight
The separation between the teams is based on realized value and the scale of the cost. Vaughn played 32 games with 15 starts and four interceptions for Indianapolis; Gronkowski spent one season as a reserve fullback in Denver. A short-lived acquisition can still be worthwhile when the price is tiny, while a player who generates no regular-season contribution can leave the selling club ahead in an obscure deal. The available evidence is specific enough to make that comparison without overstating either side's gain.
Final Verdict
The final call is Indianapolis Colts Win. Indianapolis Colts receives a A-, while Denver Broncos receives a C-. Those grades reflect the verified terms, subsequent service or asset value, and the modest scale of the exchange.