Denver acquired center Gino Gradkowski and Baltimore's 2016…
Denver acquired center Gino Gradkowski and Baltimore's 2016 fifth-round pick, No. 144, while sending the Ravens its 2016 fourth-rounder, No. 130. Denver used No. 144 on Connor McGovern; Baltimore used No. 130 on Alex Lewis. Gradkowski was short-term depth, McGovern became a useful NFL lineman, and Lewis also contributed as a starter. Baltimore's higher pick produced solid value, but Denver's two-asset return keeps the margin modest.
Denver Broncos Received
- player Gino Gradkowski
- pick 2016 5th round pick (144th overall, Connor McGovern )
Baltimore Ravens Received
- pick 2016 4th round pick (130th overall, Alex Lewis )
Trade Analysis
The Exchange
Denver acquired center Gino Gradkowski and Baltimore's 2016 fifth-round selection in April 2015. In return, the Ravens received Denver's 2016 fourth-round pick. The fifth-rounder became No. 144, Connor McGovern, while Baltimore's fourth became No. 130, Alex Lewis. The exchange combined immediate line depth with a one-round draft move.
Denver Broncos Return
Gradkowski gave Denver an experienced interior option, though his Broncos tenure was limited. The more important return became McGovern. Selected at No. 144, McGovern developed into a useful NFL offensive lineman and later built a substantial career beyond Denver. Even if much of his longevity came elsewhere, the Broncos found real player value from the acquired fifth-round slot.
Baltimore Ravens Return
Baltimore moved a depth player and a fifth-rounder to climb into the fourth round. Lewis became a starter and supplied useful snaps on the offensive line, validating the decision to consolidate assets for an earlier selection. The Ravens did not land a star, but they turned pieces they were willing to move into a player who contributed promptly.
Value in Hindsight
Both sides can point to legitimate value. Denver received two assets and drafted a player with a long NFL career. Baltimore obtained the higher pick and selected a lineman who helped the Ravens directly. The difference comes from Baltimore's efficiency in converting a reserve player and later choice into a useful fourth-round starter.
Final Verdict
Baltimore earns a B and Denver a C+. The Ravens have the slight edge because Lewis provided direct value from the upgraded pick, but McGovern's development prevents this from being a lopsided result.