Denver acquired the rights to running back Jon Keyworth from…
Denver acquired the rights to running back Jon Keyworth from Washington on February 18, 1974 for 1975 picks No. 147 and No. 277. Keyworth became a seven-season Bronco, started 69 games, and contributed to the 1977 AFC championship team. That sustained production easily surpassed Washington's draft return and makes Denver the clear winner.
Denver Broncos Received
- player Rights to Jon Keyworth
Washington Commanders Received
- pick 1975 6th round pick (#147, Mark Doak)
- pick 1975 11th round pick (#277, Ardell Johnson)
Trade Analysis
The Exchange
Denver acquired the rights to running back Jon Keyworth from Washington on February 18, 1974. Washington received two selections in the 1975 draft: sixth-round pick No. 147 and eleventh-round pick No. 277. Those choices became Mark Doak and Ardell Johnson. The package is therefore Keyworth's rights to Denver for two specific future draft picks to Washington.
Denver Broncos Return
Keyworth became a substantial long-term return. He spent seven seasons with Denver, started 69 games, and contributed to the team that won the 1977 AFC championship. For the price of a sixth-round and an eleventh-round selection, the Broncos acquired a player who became a regular part of the offense and remained with the franchise through an important competitive era.
Washington Commanders Return
Washington gained two future draft choices, which was a reasonable attempt to extract value from Keyworth's rights. No. 147 became Mark Doak and No. 277 became Ardell Johnson. Neither selection produced a career or franchise impact comparable to what Keyworth delivered in Denver, so the quantity of picks did not translate into equivalent realized value.
Value in Hindsight
The trade demonstrates how a modest package of draft capital can look very different once a player becomes a multi-year starter. Denver did not surrender a premium selection, yet Keyworth supplied seven seasons of service and dozens of starts. Washington had two chances to recover value through the draft, but neither choice came close to matching that sustained contribution.
Final Verdict
Denver earns an A- and Washington a D+. The Broncos acquired a productive long-term player for two relatively low-cost picks, while Washington's selections failed to generate comparable value. Keyworth's 69 starts and role on the 1977 AFC championship team make the direction decisive. This should be graded as a Denver Broncos Win, reversing any earlier Washington-leaning verdict.