Denver acquired linebacker Ray May from Baltimore on October…
Denver acquired linebacker Ray May from Baltimore on October 3, 1973 for 1974 third- and eighth-round picks. May became a useful Broncos starter for three seasons, but Baltimore used the third-rounder on guard Robert Pratt, who developed into a long-term Colts lineman with 170 career games. Denver received solid value; Pratt's sustained impact gives Baltimore the stronger return.
Denver Broncos Received
- player Ray May
Indianapolis Colts Received
- pick 1974 third round pick (#67-Robert Pratt)
- pick 1974 eighth round pick (#198-Paul Miles (a))
Trade Analysis
What Changed Hands
On October 3, 1973, Denver acquired linebacker Ray May from Baltimore for two 1974 draft choices: a third-round pick at No. 67 and an eighth-round pick at No. 198. The Colts used those selections on guard Robert Pratt and running back Paul Miles. Denver and Indianapolis historical transaction material describe the same package, giving the trade a strong two-team record.
Denver Return
May was a useful acquisition, not a miss. He joined Denver during the 1973 season and started 10 games that year. In 1974 he started 12 more games, intercepted two passes, and continued as a core linebacker. He finished with 33 Broncos appearances and 30 starts over three seasons. That production deserves a strong grade and keeps this from becoming a one-sided result.
Baltimore Return
The third-round pick became the most valuable long-term asset in the deal. Pratt played 170 NFL games and made 151 career starts, with his early and prime seasons anchored in Baltimore's offensive line. He developed from a rookie reserve into a regular starter and provided years of continuity. Miles did not produce an NFL career for the Colts, so the eighth-rounder adds little, but Pratt alone supplied far more sustained value than a typical third-round selection.
Final Verdict
Baltimore wins, but Denver also did well. May delivered three useful seasons and extensive starting work, while Pratt became the longer and more valuable cornerstone. A- for Baltimore/Indianapolis and B for Denver reflects a strong trade for both sides with the Colts holding the clear long-term edge.