Broncos’ Persistent Efforts to Acquire Calvin Johnson in 2007 Trade Attempts Uncovered
Denver Broncos’ Ambitious Attempt to Draft Calvin Johnson in 2007
The Bold Move to Secure Calvin Johnson
In a remarkable yet ultimately unsuccessful move, the Denver Broncos sought to acquire Calvin Johnson, widely regarded as one of the best wide receivers in NFL history, ahead of the 2007 NFL Draft. Efforts to trade with the Detroit Lions for the No. 2 overall pick were detailed by Mike Klis, highlighting Denver’s aggressive strategy.
Proposed Trade Offers with the Lions
The initial offer to the Lions included running back Tatum Bell, offensive lineman George Foster, linebacker Al Wilson, and the 21st overall pick. Although this did not result in a swap of picks, the Broncos managed to secure cornerback Dré Bly in exchange for Bell and Foster. Persistently, the Broncos then proposed trading multiple draft picks, but the Lions remained unmoved.
| Offer Details | Outcome |
|---|---|
| Bly for Bell and Foster, and No. 2 pick for additional assets | Bly trade successful, draft pick swap unsuccessful |
| 2007 first-, second-, third-round picks, and a 2008 first-round pick | Rejected by Lions |
An Attempt to Partner with the Raiders
After Detroit’s rejection, Denver turned to their division rival, the then-Oakland Raiders, regarding the No. 1 pick. According to Benjamin Allbright from KOA, a verbal agreement was allegedly in place, yet was later retracted by late Raiders owner Al Davis. The Raiders subsequently chose quarterback JaMarcus Russell, leaving the Broncos’ pursuit of Johnson unfulfilled.
The Ripple Effects on the NFL
The decision significantly impacted all parties. JaMarcus Russell was later deemed one of the biggest draft busts, while Johnson’s career flourished, earning him a spot in the Hall of Fame. The Broncos, on the other hand, selected pass rusher Jarvis Moss, who proved to be another draft misstep. Consequently, Mike Shanahan’s tenure as coach concluded shortly after the 2007 draft.
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