Denver acquired the rights to unsigned first-round linebacker…
Denver acquired the rights to unsigned first-round linebacker Ricky Hunley from Cincinnati on October 9, 1984 for a package of future draft choices. Hunley became a useful Broncos starter, but Cincinnati’s return was enormous: the picks ultimately produced wide receiver Tim McGee and three-time Pro Bowl safety David Fulcher, plus another selection. The Bengals created far more long-term value.
Denver Broncos Received
- other rights to Ricky Hunley
Cincinnati Bengals Received
- pick 1986 first round pick (#21-Tim McGee)
- pick third round pick (Buccaneers 1985 third round pick or Broncos 1986 third round pick) (1986 #78-David Fulcher)
- pick 1987 fifth round pick (#139-Greg Horne (b))
Trade Analysis
Why Denver Paid the Price
Ricky Hunley was Cincinnati's 1984 first-round pick, but a long contract stalemate kept him from signing with the Bengals. Denver acquired his rights on October 9, 1984 and accepted the cost of multiple future selections because Hunley was still viewed as a premium linebacker prospect. He went on to become a useful Broncos starter, so Denver did receive legitimate value.
What Cincinnati Turned the Return Into
The Bengals converted the future draft package into an exceptional set of outcomes. The most important selections became wide receiver Tim McGee and safety David Fulcher. McGee finished his NFL career with 321 receptions, 5,203 yards and 28 touchdowns, including a 1,211-yard season for Cincinnati in 1989. Fulcher became an even more decorated Bengal, earning three Pro Bowl selections and intercepting 31 career passes.
Why Hunley's Value Still Counts
Denver should not be graded as though it acquired a bust. Hunley played several seasons for the Broncos and contributed on strong teams. A B reflects that the club successfully turned draft capital into a starting-caliber defender. The problem is simply that Cincinnati's return became unusually productive.
How the Value Settled
Getting one good linebacker is valuable. Getting a productive long-term receiver and a three-time Pro Bowl safety from the compensation is substantially better. The Bengals also retained another selection beyond the two names that define the trade, adding even more aggregate value.
Final Verdict
Cincinnati earns an A+ and Denver a B. Hunley justified the Broncos' interest, but McGee and Fulcher gave the Bengals years of starting production, major honors and much greater total impact. This is a clear Cincinnati Bengals Win and one of the strongest returns in this portion of the historical data.