Getty Denver didn’t just acquire a quarterback in 1983 – it acquired its long-term identity. On May 2, 1983, the Broncos struck a deal with the Baltimore Colts for the rights to No. 1 overall pick John Elway , sending No. 4 pick Chris Hinton, backup QB Mark Herrmann and Denver’s 1984 first-round pick in return. Bleacher Report recently named that trade the best in Broncos history.  Why the John Elway Trade Happened Getty John Elway redefined success in Denver, giving the franchise Hall of Fame