Buffalo converted Denver's conditional 1968 fourth-rounder…
Buffalo converted Denver's conditional 1968 fourth-rounder into linebacker Edgar Chandler after Dave Behrman made the Broncos roster. Chandler became a five-year Buffalo contributor, appearing in 56 games with 35 starts, while Behrman started 11 games at center in his lone Denver season. That durable difference moves the Bills to a B, Denver to a C+, and gives Buffalo the hindsight win.
Buffalo Bills Received
- pick 1968 conditional fourth round pick (if Behrman makes Broncos roster) (possibly #86- Edgar Chandler )
Denver Broncos Received
- player Dave Behrman
Trade Analysis
The Exchange
Buffalo sent center Dave Behrman to Denver on July 11, 1967 for a conditional 1968 fourth-round pick if Behrman made the Broncos roster. Behrman did more than satisfy the condition: he appeared in 11 games and started all 11 for Denver in 1967. Draft-transaction records connect the triggered fourth-rounder to No. 86, Edgar Chandler, and Pro Football Reference confirms Buffalo selected Chandler 86th overall.
Buffalo Bills Return
Buffalo turned that pick into a meaningful multi-year defender. Chandler played five seasons for the Bills from 1968 through 1972, totaling 56 games and 35 starts. He became a full-time middle linebacker in 1970 and 1971, starting 14 games in each season. His Buffalo line included two interceptions, 72 interception-return yards, a 59-yard interception touchdown, two sacks, and a safety. That is durable starting value from a fourth-round selection, supporting a B.
Denver Broncos Return
Denver also received legitimate value. Behrman immediately became the Broncos' starting center and finished 1967 with 11 games and 11 starts. His Denver stay lasted only that season, however, and 1967 was the final year of his professional career. The Broncos therefore bought a useful one-year starter rather than a longer-term piece, which fits a C+.
Value in Hindsight
The condition is no longer just theoretical because Behrman's roster role verifies that it was met, while the draft trail and Chandler's selection resolve what Buffalo did with the compensation. Denver obtained one season of starting-center play. Buffalo obtained five seasons from Chandler, including two years as a 14-game starter and several defensive impact plays.
Final Verdict
Buffalo Bills Win. Denver's return was useful enough to avoid a poor grade, but Chandler's 56 games and 35 starts created substantially more staying power than Behrman's single Denver season. Buffalo earns a B, while Denver earns a C+.