Miami moved Larry Lee to Denver and received the 1988…
Miami moved Larry Lee to Denver and received the 1988 eighth-round selection used on Louis Cheek. The draft choice preserved some future value, but it did not match the immediate usefulness Denver received from Lee. Miami's return was not empty, so a C grade fits a modest package whose realized payoff trailed the player sent away.
Miami Dolphins Received
- pick 1988 eighth round pick (#220-Louis Cheek)
Denver Broncos Received
- player Larry Lee (b)
Trade Analysis
The Exchange
On 1987-08-20, Miami Dolphins received 1988 eighth round pick (#220-Louis Cheek), while Denver Broncos received Larry Lee (b). The exchange is supported by the historical transaction and draft records carried into this review, allowing the two returns to be judged by the value each club actually controlled after the deal.
Miami Dolphins Return
Miami moved Larry Lee to Denver and received the 1988 eighth-round selection used on Louis Cheek. The draft choice preserved some future value, but it did not match the immediate usefulness Denver received from Lee. Miami's return was not empty, so a C grade fits a modest package whose realized payoff trailed the player sent away. The grade reflects the practical value of that return rather than the reputation or theoretical value of the asset on the day of the trade.
Denver Broncos Return
Denver acquired Larry Lee, who went on to start games for the Broncos, in exchange for the future eighth-round pick that Miami used on Louis Cheek. That direct playing time gave Denver the clearer realized return from a low-cost transaction. The advantage is substantial enough for a B- grade, while still recognizing the limited scale of the deal. The same standard applies on this side: tangible playing value and clearly retained draft capital matter more than an eventual asset's label alone.
Value in Hindsight
The best-supported date of August 20, 1987 does not change the football evaluation. From there, the value comparison is straightforward: Denver received usable starts from Lee, while Miami's late-round selection produced a smaller return. The Broncos therefore hold the clearer edge.
Final Verdict
The final call is Denver Broncos Win. Miami Dolphins earns C, and Denver Broncos earns B-. Those grades reflect the supported package and the relative football value each side realized, while keeping the scale of the transaction in proper context.