Los Angeles Rams
Trade grades, verdicts, asset movement, and historical context for Los Angeles Rams franchise trades.
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Los Angeles Rams
Green Bay acquired tight end Mark Redman from the Rams for a 2028 seventh-round pick on August 30, 2026, pending a physical. Redman spent 2025 on Los Angeles’ practice squad and had not played a regular-season game, but Green Bay needed tight-end depth and liked his preseason. The Packers make a sensible low-cost roster bet; the Rams get the edge for turning likely surplus into a draft asset.
Miami’s slight edge vanished three days after the trade when the Dolphins waived Jarquez Hunter on August 30, while Tutu Atwell made the Rams’ initial 53-man roster. Miami sent Atwell to Los Angeles for Hunter and ended cutdown day without the player it acquired. The Rams reacquired a receiver they know and kept him, making Los Angeles the clear current-read winner before either side has played a regular-season game.
Los Angeles acquired reigning Defensive Player of the Year Myles Garrett in June 2026, sending Cleveland young edge rusher Jared Verse plus first-, second- and third-round picks across the next three drafts. Garrett arrived after setting the NFL single-season sack record with 23 in 2025. The Rams get the present-day edge for landing the proven superstar, while Cleveland's enormous return keeps the long-term verdict open.
Los Angeles moved from No. 207 to No. 197 in the 2026 draft to select Miami receiver CJ Daniels, sending Philadelphia two seventh-round choices with its sixth-rounder. The Rams concentrated three opportunities into one preferred receiver. His professional career is too young to establish whether that concentration produced better value than the alternatives.
Kansas City sent All-Pro cornerback Trent McDuffie to Los Angeles and received the No. 29 pick in the 2026 draft, 2026 fifth- and sixth-round picks, and a 2027 third-round choice. The first-rounder became Peter Woods, while the later 2026 picks were subsequently moved to Pittsburgh. The Chiefs obtained substantial draft capital, but no regular-season results from the new assets exist yet, so the current grade remains provisional.
The Rams acquired Roger McCreary and a 2026 sixth-round pick from Tennessee for a 2026 fifth-rounder. McCreary's Los Angeles tenure was interrupted almost immediately by injury and produced only a modest statistical return after he came back. Tennessee, meanwhile, improved its draft position from the sixth-round asset it sent to the fifth-round asset it received. The round upgrade gives the Titans the stronger outcome so far.
Los Angeles traded offensive tackle KT Leveston to Cleveland on August 26, 2025 for a 2028 seventh-round draft choice. Leveston, a 2024 seventh-round pick who had missed his entire rookie season on injured reserve, became useful line depth for the Browns and appeared in 16 regular-season games with seven starts in 2025.
Minnesota sent pick No. 172 to the Rams during the 2025 draft and received Nos. 201 and 202, selecting Kobe King and Gavin Bartholomew. Los Angeles used No. 172 on Chris Paul Jr., who did not make the Rams' regular-season roster. Both Vikings selections reached the NFL roster picture, giving Minnesota the stronger early return.
Chicago received Luke Newman, who has appeared in 10 regular-season games through Week 1 of 2026, plus the 2026 No. 129 pick that later helped the Bears trade for Nos. 124 and 166. Los Angeles used No. 148 on Ty Hamilton, now at 15 games with no starts and 12 tackles. The Bears retain a narrow hindsight edge, B- to C+.
Atlanta traded back into the 2025 first round for James Pearce Jr. and pick 101, sending the Rams picks 46 and 242 plus its 2026 first-rounder. Pearce immediately justified much of the aggression with 10.5 rookie sacks, while Los Angeles turned the deal into Terrance Ferguson, Konata Mumpfield and the 13th pick in 2026. Both sides secured meaningful value.
Chicago acquired Jonah Jackson after his injury-shortened Rams season, while Los Angeles received the 2025 sixth-round pick that became No. 202. The Rams later combined No. 202 with No. 201 in a trade with Minnesota to reach No. 172 and select Chris Paul. Jackson's Bears tenure and the Rams' downstream draft return remain recent, leaving the deal evenly graded at C+ for both teams.
Baltimore acquired veteran cornerback Tre'Davious White and a 2027 seventh-round pick from the Rams for a 2026 seventh-round pick. White appeared in seven regular-season games for the Ravens and provided experienced secondary depth without requiring meaningful draft capital. Los Angeles recovered a slightly earlier late-round selection for a player outside its plans, but Baltimore received the more useful immediate football value.
The Rams sent Ernest Jones and a 2026 sixth-round pick to Tennessee for a 2026 fifth-round pick. Tennessee then turned Jones into another return less than two months later, receiving linebacker Jerome Baker and a 2025 fourth-round pick from Seattle. That second move transformed a small pick swap into additional veteran help and meaningful draft capital, making Tennessee the clear winner of the original exchange.
Los Angeles traded wide receiver Ben Skowronek and its 2026 seventh-round pick to Houston for the Texans' 2026 sixth-round pick on May 9, 2024. Houston waived Skowronek before the 2024 regular season, so the Rams moved a player they were reportedly prepared to release and improved their future draft position by one round without surrendering realized on-field production to the Texans.
Los Angeles paid Carolina a substantial package to move up for defensive tackle Braden Fiske at No. 39, sending the Panthers a 2024 second-rounder, a 2024 fifth-rounder and a 2025 second-rounder. Fiske has already produced 11.5 regular-season sacks in two years and became a full-time starter. Carolina received strong draft capital, but Fiske's performance has erased the case for a lopsided Panthers win.
Los Angeles sent Van Jefferson and a 2025 seventh-round pick to Atlanta for a 2025 sixth-round selection. Jefferson caught only 12 passes for 101 yards in 12 games with the Falcons and left after the season. The Rams cleared a crowded receiver rotation and improved their future draft position by a round, making the modest transaction a clean win for Los Angeles in hindsight.
Minnesota acquired Cam Akers from Los Angeles in September 2023 while swapping conditional 2026 late-round picks. Neither conditional pick ultimately conveyed, leaving the Vikings with Akers at no realized draft cost. He produced 138 rushing yards, 70 receiving yards and one touchdown in six games before an Achilles injury ended his season, making Minnesota the modest winner.
Los Angeles acquired Kevin Dotson plus Pittsburgh's 2024 fifth- and 2025 sixth-round picks for the Rams' 2024 fourth- and 2025 fifth-round choices. Dotson immediately became a starting guard, then re-signed on a three-year deal and started 45 regular-season games for Los Angeles from 2023 through 2025. Pittsburgh gained better draft positions, but the Rams found a high-level long-term starter at a manageable trade price.
Houston moved from picks Nos. 174 and 259 to No. 167 and selected linebacker Henry To'oTo'o. He became a regular starter, reaching 35 starts and roughly 250 tackles through his first three seasons. The Rams used the acquired selections on Warren McClendon and Desjuan Johnson, who both supplied useful depth. Los Angeles received two contributors, but To'oTo'o's sustained starting role gives Houston the modest win.
Los Angeles traded down four spots in the fifth round on April 29, 2023, sending No. 171 to Tampa Bay for Nos. 175 and 252. The Rams selected tight end Davis Allen at No. 175, and by early 2026 he had appeared in 49 games with 12 starts, 42 catches, 362 yards and four touchdowns. Los Angeles later used No. 252 as part of another trade-up, so both pieces of the return retained value.
Los Angeles traded pick No. 252 and a 2024 sixth-rounder to Buffalo on April 29, 2023 for pick No. 215. The Rams selected running back Zach Evans, who appeared in 10 regular-season games as a rookie, rushing nine times for 19 yards without a touchdown, and never played another regular-season game for Los Angeles. The move-up therefore produced only a brief reserve contribution.
The Giants traded picks No. 89 and No. 128 to the Rams on April 28, 2023, moving up to No. 73 for wide receiver Jalin Hyatt. Los Angeles used the return on defensive tackle Kobie Turner and quarterback Stetson Bennett. Hyatt produced limited receiving output through 2025, while Turner became a high-volume defensive starter, giving the Rams the best player and another draft asset.
Los Angeles sent picks No. 69 and No. 191 to Houston on April 28, 2023 for Nos. 73 and 161. The Rams then flipped No. 73 to New York for Nos. 89 and 128, selecting Kobie Turner and Stetson Bennett, while No. 161 became Nick Hampton. Turner had 24 sacks through Week 2 of 2026 and is the centerpiece of a strong Rams return.
The Rams traded pick No. 73 to the Giants for Nos. 89 and 128, then selected Kobie Turner and Stetson Bennett. Turner became the centerpiece of the deal, producing 24 sacks through his first three seasons and establishing himself as a starting defensive lineman. New York used No. 73 on Jalin Hyatt, whose early production remained limited. Turner's impact makes this a decisive Rams win.
Pittsburgh acquired Allen Robinson and the 251st pick in 2023 from the Rams for No. 234. Robinson started all 17 games and caught 34 passes for 280 yards in his lone Steelers season, while No. 251 became Spencer Anderson, who developed into a useful lineman with 42 games and 11 starts through 2025. That combined return gives Pittsburgh the narrow hindsight edge.
Miami acquired Jalen Ramsey from the Rams for tight end Hunter Long and pick No. 77, used on edge rusher Byron Young. Ramsey started 27 games for Miami across 2023-24, intercepted five passes and extended his Pro Bowl streak before being traded again in 2025. Young has become a three-year Rams starter with 27.5 sacks, including 12 in 2025. The long-term pass-rush return now gives Los Angeles a slight edge.
Los Angeles moved up 11 spots in the fifth round on April 30, 2022, sending Las Vegas picks No. 175 and No. 238 for No. 164. The Rams selected Notre Dame running back Kyren Williams. Through Week 2 of 2026, Williams had played 57 games with 46 starts, rushing for 3,960 yards and 37 touchdowns while adding 116 catches for 781 yards and nine receiving scores. He surpassed 1,100 rushing yards in each season from 2023 through 2025.
Los Angeles traded pick No. 218 to Tampa Bay on April 30, 2022 for two seventh-round selections, Nos. 235 and 261. The Rams used them on edge defender Daniel Hardy and tackle A.J. Arcuri. Hardy appeared in six regular-season games for Los Angeles in 2022 without a start before later continuing his career elsewhere. Arcuri played 10 Rams games across 2022 and 2024 with one start. The two-pick return produced depth but little sustained role value.
On 2022-04-30, Cleveland Browns received 2023 5th round pick (140th overall, Dorian Thompson-Robinson), while Los Angeles Rams received Troy Hill. The hindsight verdict is Los Angeles Rams Win, with Cleveland Browns graded C- and Los Angeles Rams graded B. The evaluation follows the documented consideration and traceable football value, while leaving unresolved downstream pick identities out of the judgment.
Los Angeles Rams received 2023 sixth-round pick No. 189, Ochaun Mathis; Tennessee Titans received Robert Woods. Mathis appeared in eight Rams games as a rookie reserve, made two tackles and recorded no sacks. Woods started 15 of 17 games for Tennessee in 2022 and led the Titans with 53 receptions for 527 yards and two touchdowns. The realized returns support Tennessee Titans Win, with Los Angeles Rams graded C and Tennessee Titans graded B-.
The Rams acquired Von Miller from Denver for second- and third-round picks in the 2022 draft, adding a proven edge rusher for a championship run. Miller became a major part of Los Angeles' Super Bowl LVI defense, while Denver eventually turned the second-rounder into Nik Bonitto, who developed into a Pro Bowl pass rusher of his own.
Denver acquired linebacker Kenny Young and a 2024 seventh-round pick from the Rams for a 2024 sixth-rounder during the 2021 season. Young immediately stepped into Denver's lineup and supplied short-term starting help, while Los Angeles improved its future draft position and opened snaps for other linebackers during a Super Bowl run. Neither side created a major long-term advantage, making the exchange a sensible even trade.
Green Bay acquired punter Corey Bojorquez and a 2023 seventh-round pick from the Rams for a 2023 sixth-round selection. Bojorquez gave the Packers useful punting for one season, and Green Bay eventually used pick No. 235 on running back Lew Nichols. The return had practical value, but the Rams received the stronger draft asset and preserved more flexibility with the sixth-rounder.
The Rams acquired running back Sony Michel from New England for draft compensation that became a 2022 sixth-round pick and a 2023 fourth-round pick. Michel rushed for 845 yards in 2021, stabilized the backfield through injuries and contributed to a Super Bowl LVI championship season. New England received legitimate future capital, but the Rams bought exactly the short-term production and postseason relevance they needed.
Jacksonville moved up from No. 130 to No. 121 in the 2021 draft and added No. 209, selecting Jordan Smith and Jalen Camp. The Rams received Nos. 130, 170 and 249, using the package on Robert Rochell, later trade capital, and Ben Skowronek. Los Angeles extracted more usable depth and optionality from the exchange, earning a B to Jacksonville's C-.
Los Angeles moved down four spots in the fifth round on May 1, 2021, sending Houston pick No. 170 for Nos. 174 and 233. The Rams selected defensive lineman Earnest Brown IV and running back Jake Funk. Brown appeared in 12 Rams regular-season games with three starts and 14 tackles across 2022-23, while Funk appeared in 15 Rams games across 2021-22 and had two carries for five yards, contributing mainly on special teams. The two-player return produced modest depth rather than a long-term starter.
San Francisco sent picks 117 and 121 to the Rams to move up to No. 88 for running back Trey Sermon. Sermon rushed for 167 yards as a rookie and was waived before his second season. Los Angeles used No. 117 on defensive tackle Bobby Brown III and later moved No. 121. Brown developed into a regular contributor and starter on the Rams' defensive line. The Rams received the only lasting player value and clearly won the deal.
The Matthew Stafford-Jared Goff trade is one of the rare NFL blockbusters where both teams can claim victory. The Rams got a Super Bowl quarterback. The Lions got Jared Goff, major draft value, and the foundation for a new competitive era. Los Angeles won the immediate bet, while Detroit won the broader reset. It stands out because the Rams got the championship payoff and the Lions still turned the return into lasting roster value.
Detroit Lions received Michael Brockers from Los Angeles Rams. Brockers played 22 regular-season games with 21 starts over two Detroit seasons, giving the Lions substantial immediate veteran service for a minimal acquisition cost. The B grade reflects the direct value Detroit Lions realized from the transaction, with the final Detroit Lions Win call based on actual service and clearly traceable draft outcomes rather than projected value.
Houston moved up 10 spots in the fourth round on April 25, 2020, sending picks No. 136, No. 248 and No. 250 to Los Angeles for No. 126. The Texans selected North Carolina tackle Charlie Heck, who became a four-year Houston contributor with 41 games and 21 starts. The Rams turned their three selections into Brycen Hopkins, Sam Sloman and Tremayne Anchrum, receiving depth across three roster spots and a notable Super Bowl contribution from Hopkins.
Los Angeles sent Brandin Cooks and a 2022 fourth-round pick to Houston for the No. 57 selection in the 2020 draft, which became wide receiver Van Jefferson. Cooks gave the Texans two 1,000-yard seasons before another trade, while Jefferson became a regular contributor for the Rams and topped 800 yards during their Super Bowl LVI championship season. Both clubs realized meaningful value.
Los Angeles Rams
Los Angeles sent injured cornerback Aqib Talib and a 2020 fifth-round pick to Miami for a 2022 seventh-rounder. The football purpose was largely financial: Talib was on injured reserve and the Rams wanted salary relief while reshaping the roster around Jalen Ramsey. Miami had abundant cap room and effectively accepted Talib’s contract to move from a distant seventh-round asset into a much more valuable fifth-round selection.
The Rams acquired Jalen Ramsey from Jacksonville for first-round picks in 2020 and 2021 plus a 2021 fourth-rounder. Ramsey became an All-Pro centerpiece of Los Angeles' secondary and helped the Rams win Super Bowl LVI. Jacksonville turned the first-rounders into K'Lavon Chaisson and Travis Etienne, giving the Jaguars useful talent but not an equivalent defensive star.
The Rams traded cornerback Marcus Peters to Baltimore in October 2019 for linebacker Kenny Young and a 2020 fifth-round pick. Peters immediately strengthened a contending Ravens defense, intercepting five passes in nine regular-season games and earning first-team All-Pro recognition. Young developed into a useful Rams linebacker, including six starts in 2020, but his Los Angeles impact remained much smaller.
Los Angeles acquired guard Austin Corbett from Cleveland on October 15, 2019 for a 2021 fifth-round draft choice that became No. 169 overall, safety Richard LeCounte. Corbett quickly became a Rams starter, opening 40 of 41 regular-season games for Los Angeles from 2019 through 2021 and starting all four postseason games during the Rams' 2021 Super Bowl championship run.
Los Angeles sent two fifth-round picks to New England for No. 134 and No. 243, selecting Greg Gaines and Nick Scott. Both became meaningful contributors, and each played a role on the Rams' Super Bowl LVI championship team. New England moved the two fifth-rounders onward, but the Rams' direct conversion of the acquired picks into two useful defenders creates a clear advantage.
New England sent picks No. 56 and No. 101 to the Rams to move up to No. 45 for cornerback Joejuan Williams. Los Angeles immediately moved No. 56 to Kansas City and ultimately turned the trade chain into additional selections, including safety Taylor Rapp, who became a starter on the Super Bowl LVI champions. Williams never became a comparable Patriots starter, giving the Rams the stronger return.
Kansas City moved up five spots for Mecole Hardman, giving the Rams pick No. 61 and a fifth-rounder. Hardman became a useful speed weapon and return option across multiple championship runs, while Los Angeles turned No. 61 into Taylor Rapp, a starting safety on its Super Bowl LVI team. Both clubs extracted meaningful value from the exchange.
Los Angeles sent picks No. 94 and No. 99 to Tampa Bay to climb to No. 70 for running back Darrell Henderson. Henderson became part of the Rams' backfield rotation and contributed during their Super Bowl LVI season, but the Buccaneers converted the two picks into Jamel Dean and Mike Edwards, two defenders who played meaningful roles on a championship roster.
Atlanta traded picks 45 and 79 to the Rams for No. 31 and No. 203, using the first-rounder on tackle Kaleb McGary. McGary developed into a long-term Falcons starter and eventually earned a second contract, giving Atlanta stability at right tackle. Los Angeles used No. 79 on David Long and moved No. 45 in another trade, gaining flexibility and secondary depth but no player with McGary's sustained Atlanta role.
Los Angeles acquired edge rusher Dante Fowler from Jacksonville at the 2018 trade deadline for a 2019 third-round pick and a 2020 fifth-round pick. The Rams acquired Dante Fowler at the 2018 deadline and received immediate pass-rush help for a Super Bowl run, then re-signed him for 2019 when he produced a career-high 11.5 sacks. Jacksonville turned the picks into Quincy Williams and Collin Johnson, but neither delivered comparable value for the Jaguars. Fowler's postseason impact and strong 2019 season make Los Angeles the winner.
Atlanta sent the Rams picks No. 244 and No. 256 to move up to No. 194 and select wide receiver Russell Gage. Atlanta moved up for Russell Gage, who developed from a sixth-round special-teams prospect into a productive receiver and eventually posted consecutive 700-yard seasons. The Rams selected Justin Lawler at No. 244 and moved No. 256 in another trade. Lawler provided depth, but Gage generated far more offensive production and became a meaningful part of Atlanta's passing game.
Carolina moved up eleven spots in the 2018 fourth round to select edge rusher Marquis Haynes at No. 136, sending the Rams picks No. 147 and No. 197. Haynes became a durable rotational pass rusher for the Panthers, appearing across seven seasons and producing 14 sacks. Los Angeles landed linebacker Micah Kiser at No. 147, but Carolina received the stronger long-term contribution from the deal.
Dallas acquired Tavon Austin from the Rams for the 192nd pick in the 2018 draft. Dallas acquired Tavon Austin and got two seasons of offensive and return-game work from him. Austin produced multiple touchdowns and gave the Cowboys a flexible speed option who could contribute in several roles. The impact was not star-level, but Dallas extracted useful snaps and scoring value from a very modest acquisition cost. In hindsight, that result supports a B- grade for Dallas Cowboys in a deal ultimately judged as Dallas Cowboys Win.
Denver Broncos and Rams completed this transaction on 2018-04-28, with Denver Broncos receiving 2018 6th round pick (183rd overall, Sam Jones) and 2018 6th round pick (217th overall, Keishawn Bierria) and Rams receiving 2018 5th round pick (160th overall, Ogbonnia Okoronkwo). The cited historical sources support the recorded exchange and compensation. The Denver Broncos grade of C+ and the Rams grade of B reflect the relative football value visible in hindsight, with the stronger side matching the Los Angeles/St. Louis Rams Win verdict.
Washington sent the Rams picks No. 205 and No. 231 for picks No. 197 and No. 256, selecting Shaun Dion Hamilton and Trey Quinn. Washington moved up for Shaun Dion Hamilton and Trey Quinn, receiving several seasons of linebacker and receiver depth. Los Angeles moved back for Trevon Young and Travin Howard. Howard developed into a useful linebacker and made a decisive interception during the Rams' 2021 NFC Championship run, giving the Rams the most consequential contribution from the four players involved.
Oakland sent the Rams picks No. 89 and No. 217 to move up two spots to No. 87 and select edge rusher Arden Key. The Raiders moved up two spots for Arden Key, who showed pass-rush flashes but never established himself as a long-term Oakland starter. The Rams moved back and selected Joseph Noteboom, who stayed with the organization for years as a starter and versatile offensive lineman, while the extra sixth-round selection also retained trade value. Los Angeles got the more durable return.
Los Angeles sent first- and sixth-round picks to New England for Brandin Cooks and a fourth-rounder. Cooks immediately delivered 1,204 receiving yards for a Rams team that reached Super Bowl LIII, then was traded to Houston two years later for a second-round pick. New England used No. 23 on Isaiah Wynn, a capable but injury-limited lineman. Both clubs extracted meaningful value, making an even grade more fitting than a Patriots win.
Denver traded cornerback Aqib Talib to the Rams for the No. 160 pick in the 2018 draft. Los Angeles paid a fifth-round pick for Aqib Talib, reuniting the veteran corner with Wade Phillips and adding him to a defense built for an immediate championship run. Talib started for the Rams when healthy and helped the club reach Super Bowl LIII. Denver created cap room and later recycled the pick, but the direct football impact favored Los Angeles.
Miami acquired edge rusher Robert Quinn and pick No. 209 from the Rams for picks No. 111 and No. 183 in 2018. Quinn started all 16 games for the Dolphins and recorded 6.5 sacks before Miami traded him to Dallas the next offseason. Los Angeles used No. 111 on center Brian Allen, who became a multi-year starter and started throughout the Rams' Super Bowl LVI championship run.
Los Angeles sent Alec Ogletree and a 2019 seventh-round pick to New York for 2018 fourth- and sixth-round selections. The Rams drafted John Franklin-Myers and John Kelly, but neither became a long-term Rams fixture. New York received 26 starts, 173 tackles and six interceptions from Ogletree across two seasons, giving the Giants the stronger original-team football return.
Kansas City traded Marcus Peters and a 2018 sixth-round pick to the Rams for a 2018 fourth-rounder and a 2019 second-rounder. Those picks became Armani Watts and Juan Thornhill. Peters helped Los Angeles reach Super Bowl LIII, but Thornhill developed into a multi-year Chiefs starter and championship contributor, giving Kansas City stronger long-term value from the package.
Los Angeles Rams received Derek Carrier from Washington Commanders. The Rams received Derek Carrier and used him in a modest tight end role for one season. He provided real but limited short-term service after the exchange. That outcome supports a C grade for Los Angeles Rams. The final verdict is Even Trade, based on the football value the club actually realized from the assets it controlled after the exchange.
Los Angeles added Sammy Watkins and the sixth-round pick that became Sebastian Joseph-Day, while Buffalo received cornerback E.J. Gaines and a 2018 second-rounder. Watkins supplied eight touchdowns during the Rams' 2017 turnaround, and Joseph-Day later became a multi-year starter. Buffalo got one useful season from Gaines and then used the second-round pick as part of the package that moved up for Josh Allen.
Detroit Lions received Greg Robinson in the exchange with Los Angeles Rams. Robinson played six games for Detroit in 2017 before an injury ended his season. The Lions received emergency tackle help, but the contribution was brief and did not become a longer-term answer. The D+ grade reflects the direct value Detroit Lions realized from the deal, while the Los Angeles Rams Win call weighs actual regular-season service and clearly connected draft value rather than name recognition alone.
Los Angeles moved down five spots in the fourth round on April 29, 2017, sending No. 112 to Chicago for Nos. 117 and 197. The Rams selected wide receiver Josh Reynolds at No. 117; over four Los Angeles seasons he played 64 regular-season games with 24 starts, catching 113 passes for 1,450 yards and nine touchdowns. The Rams then combined No. 197 with their own No. 141 to move up for linebacker Samson Ebukam, so the sixth-rounder also retained trade value without being solely responsible for Ebukam's acquisition.
Los Angeles traded up 16 spots in the fourth round on April 29, 2017, sending New York picks No. 141 and No. 197 for No. 125. The Rams selected Eastern Washington edge defender Samson Ebukam, who played all 64 regular-season games over four Los Angeles seasons, starting 35 and recording 14 sacks, six passes defended, an interception returned for a touchdown and six forced fumbles. The move produced a durable defensive contributor and clear multi-year value.
Buffalo moved up from No. 44 to No. 37 in the 2017 second round and selected receiver Zay Jones, also receiving pick No. 149. The Rams turned the return into tight end Gerald Everett at No. 44 and safety John Johnson III at No. 91. Jones had a productive 2018 season in Buffalo, but Los Angeles received two multi-year contributors from the trade and ultimately created the stronger direct return.
Miami moved down only 17 draft slots, sending No. 206 to Los Angeles for veteran defensive end William Hayes and No. 223. Hayes gave the Dolphins useful rotational work across 13 games over two seasons, while Miami later recycled No. 223 into additional draft capital. The Rams used No. 206 on Sam Rogers, whose NFL impact was minimal, leaving Miami with the better return.
the Rams received 2016 4th round pick (117th overall, Pharoh Cooper), 2016 6th round pick (206th overall, Mike Thomas), while Chicago received 2016 4th round pick (113th overall, Nick Kwiatkoski). The hindsight grades are C for the Rams and B for Chicago. The verdict is grounded in the actual starts, production, tenure and downstream draft results produced by those assets.
Los Angeles paid a massive package to Tennessee for the No. 1 pick in 2016 and selected Jared Goff. Goff became a Pro Bowler and quarterbacked the Rams to Super Bowl LIII, giving Los Angeles real high-end value. Tennessee turned the return into a collection that included Derrick Henry, Corey Davis, Austin Johnson and Jonnu Smith. Both teams benefited, but Henry's historic Titans career and the depth of the package give Tennessee the edge.
the Rams received 2015 7th round pick (224th overall, Bryce Hager), while the Jets received Zac Stacy. The hindsight grades are B for the Rams and C- for the Jets. The verdict is grounded in the actual starts, production, tenure and downstream draft results produced by those assets.
The Rams surrendered pick No. 41 to Carolina and received Nos. 57, 89 and 201. Carolina used the premium pick on Devin Funchess, who became a useful starting receiver and scored 21 regular-season touchdowns in his career. The Rams' prize was Rob Havenstein, who developed into a long-tenured starting right tackle and outlasted every other player in the exchange. That durability makes the Rams the winner.
Houston moved Case Keenum back to the Rams for a conditional 2016 seventh-round pick after reclaiming him late in 2014. The return eventually became pick No. 235, which Houston later moved. Los Angeles got the more useful football asset: Keenum started five games in 2015, helped steady the offense late that season, and entered 2016 as the Rams' starter before Jared Goff took over.
The quarterback swap produced more long-term value than either starter's 2015 season suggests. Philadelphia got a full season from Sam Bradford, then traded him to Minnesota in 2016 for a first-round pick and additional draft value. St. Louis received Nick Foles, Andrew Donnal and a 2016 second-rounder; Foles failed, but that second-round pick became a core piece of the package used to move to No. 1 for Jared Goff. Both teams extracted major downstream value.
St. Louis traded picks No. 184 and No. 198 to Houston on April 27, 2013 to move up to No. 160 and select running back Zac Stacy. Stacy played 27 regular-season games with 17 starts over two Rams seasons, rushing for 1,266 yards and eight touchdowns while adding 44 catches for 293 yards and another score. His 973-yard rookie season made him the clearest realized value in the exchange before St. Louis traded him to the Jets in 2015.
Atlanta traded up from No. 30 to No. 22 in 2013 for cornerback Desmond Trufant, sending the Rams third- and sixth-round picks and receiving a future seventh. Trufant became a seven-year Falcons starter and Pro Bowler. St. Louis selected Alec Ogletree at No. 30 and Stedman Bailey at No. 92, producing a strong linebacker and additional depth. Both clubs found starters, with Trufant's peak giving Atlanta a narrow edge.
Buffalo moved from No. 8 to No. 16 and added three more picks, selecting EJ Manuel, Kiko Alonso, Marquise Goodwin and Chris Gragg. Manuel did not solve quarterback, but Alonso delivered an exceptional rookie season and later became the trade asset used to acquire LeSean McCoy, while Goodwin provided four seasons of speed. St. Louis used No. 8 on Tavon Austin and No. 71 on T.J. McDonald. Both teams found contributors, with Buffalo's depth and Alonso's later value providing the edge.
The Rams received a future seventh-round selection, ultimately tied to the 2015 No. 249 slot, after sending Greg Salas to New England. St. Louis preserved transferable draft value from a player who contributed almost nothing for the Patriots, giving the Rams a small edge. That outcome supports a C+ grade for Los Angeles Rams within the final Los Angeles Rams Win verdict.
St. Louis traded former No. 2 overall pick Jason Smith to the Jets on August 27, 2012 for veteran tackle Wayne Hunter. Hunter appeared in 14 Rams games, started four and logged 334 offensive snaps as a swing tackle before being released after the season.
Indianapolis Colts received Josh Gordy from Los Angeles Rams in the 2012-08-22 trade. Indianapolis acquired Josh Gordy. Los Angeles Rams's return was 2014 7th round pick (241st overall, C.B. Bryant). The Rams received a 2014 seventh-round pick and selected C.B. Bryant at No. 241. Those realized outcomes, rather than the labels on the assets alone, drive the hindsight grade.
Chicago sent picks No. 50 and No. 150 to St. Louis to move up five spots for Alshon Jeffery. The Rams selected Isaiah Pead and Rokevious Watkins. Jeffery became a Pro Bowl receiver and produced more than 5,500 receiving yards in five Bears seasons, while Pead and Watkins supplied little sustained value in St. Louis. The gap between a true No. 1 receiver and two misses makes this a decisive Chicago win.
Dallas jumped from No. 14 to No. 6 in the 2012 draft to select cornerback Morris Claiborne, sending St. Louis the 14th and 45th picks. The Rams used No. 14 on Michael Brockers, who became a long-term defensive-line starter, then traded No. 45 to Chicago for picks used on Isaiah Pead and Rokevious Watkins. Claiborne had useful stretches but injuries limited his Dallas impact. Brockers makes the Rams clear winners.
Denver agreed to send Brandon Lloyd to St. Louis on October 17, 2011 for a conditional 2012 draft choice; the condition ultimately produced a fifth-round pick, No. 167. Lloyd immediately gave the Rams 51 catches, 683 yards and five touchdowns in 11 games. Denver, pivoting its offense around Tim Tebow, recovered useful capital for a veteran on an expiring contract and later moved the pick. Both sides benefited, with St. Louis holding a slight edge.
The Robert Griffin III trade remains one of the most famous quarterback gambles of the modern draft era. Washington moved a massive package to select Griffin, who delivered a spectacular rookie season but not long-term stability. The Rams turned the pick into a haul of premium assets, giving St. Louis the stronger long-term result. The deal remains a priority evergreen page because RGIII's rookie season, injury arc, and the Rams' asset haul still draw major trade-history interest.
Cleveland acquired offensive lineman John Greco from St. Louis on July 31, 2011 for a conditional 2012 draft choice that ultimately was not conveyed. Greco developed into a long-term Browns contributor and starter, while the Rams received no realized selection. Turning a no-cost conditional obligation into years of useful line play gives Cleveland an A- and leaves the Rams with a D.
Atlanta Falcons received 2011 5th round pick (145th overall, Jacquizz Rodgers) in the 2011-04-30 exchange with Los Angeles Rams. Jacquizz Rodgers became a useful multi-year back, receiver and return option, giving Atlanta far more practical value than the late picks it surrendered. The direct return and the football value it produced drive the hindsight judgment. Against the assets Atlanta Falcons surrendered, the result supports Atlanta Falcons Win and a B+ grade for Atlanta Falcons.
St. Louis acquired receiver Mark Clayton and a 2011 seventh-round pick from Baltimore for a 2011 sixth-rounder. Clayton started fast with 23 catches for 306 yards and two touchdowns in five games before a knee injury ended his 2010 season, then barely played in 2011. Baltimore used No. 180 on Tyrod Taylor, who became a four-year backup and later a long-time NFL starter elsewhere, giving the Ravens the better result.
Washington and St. Louis swapped 2010 draft picks Hall Davis and Dennis Morris late in the preseason. The exchange produced virtually no regular-season value for either receiving club. Davis never appeared in a Washington game and later surfaced with Tennessee, while Morris did not make the Rams' final roster. With both sides trading developmental players who failed to contribute for their new teams, the fairest hindsight result is a low-value even trade.
Rams received Bobby Carpenter in the exchange with Dallas Cowboys. Its C grade reflects the practical value of that return relative to the package surrendered and the hindsight result. The grade remains tied to documented value for the acquiring club, without assigning credit for unresolved or hypothetical downstream consideration.
St. Louis acquired safety Kevin Payne from Chicago in April 2010 for a conditional 2011 draft choice. Payne was placed on injured reserve before the regular season and never appeared in a Rams game; the condition was not met and no pick was conveyed.
Atlanta moved up and selected cornerback Dominique Franks at No. 135. Franks spent four seasons with the Falcons, appeared in 48 games, made four starts, and intercepted three passes. That was useful depth and special-teams value from a fifth-round selection. The return was solid, but it did not equal the long-term defensive contribution Los Angeles received from Eugene Sims.
Washington acquired Adam Carriker while moving down 28 spots in the fifth round and up three spots in the seventh. Carriker started 33 games and recorded seven sacks for Washington. St. Louis later traded the incoming fifth-rounder and used part of the return on Eugene Sims, who played seven seasons for the Rams and recorded 12 sacks. Both clubs found meaningful defensive value, making this a genuine draw.
Los Angeles Rams
St. Louis acquired rookie receiver Brandon Gibson and a 2010 fifth-round pick for linebacker Will Witherspoon. Gibson became a four-year Rams contributor, producing 174 catches, 2,090 receiving yards and nine touchdowns, while the pick was later used in a trade package that improved the Rams' draft position. Witherspoon helped Philadelphia immediately but lasted only 11 games before his release. The Rams win this deal on sustained realized value.
Atlanta Falcons received Tye Hill from Los Angeles Rams. Atlanta received Tye Hill and obtained limited cornerback work, including a defensive touchdown. His Falcons tenure produced some identifiable value but did not become a long-term role. That outcome supports a C+ grade for Atlanta Falcons. The final verdict is Even Trade, based on the football value the club actually realized from the assets it controlled after the exchange.
Detroit Lions received Orien Harris, while Los Angeles/St. Louis Rams received Ronald Curry. Detroit acquired defensive tackle Orien Harris and St. Louis acquired wide receiver Ronald Curry. Harris made Detroit's initial roster but was waived in September without appearing in a regular-season game for the Lions, while Curry was released by the Rams before the 2009 season. That outcome supports a D grade for Detroit Lions, a D for Los Angeles/St. Louis Rams, and a Even Trade verdict.
Cincinnati acquired running back and fullback Brian Leonard from St. Louis for defensive tackle Orien Harris. Leonard became a four-year Bengals role player, contributing on third downs and catching 72 passes while averaging 4.3 yards on 53 carries through his first three Cincinnati seasons. Harris lasted only briefly with the Rams and was traded to Detroit that July. Cincinnati received the clearly more durable contribution.
Atlanta traded Laurent Robinson plus 2009 picks No. 160 and No. 196 to the Rams for picks No. 138 and No. 176. Robinson must be treated as a separate player asset rather than bundled into a draft-pick label. Atlanta gained two selections, but the realized return did not exceed the value the Rams received, leaving the Falcons slightly behind.
Green Bay traded pick No. 128 to St. Louis for Nos. 137 and 217. The Rams selected receiver Keenan Burton, who produced 425 yards in two seasons. Green Bay turned No. 137 into picks No. 150 and No. 209, selecting Breno Giacomini and Matt Flynn, and used No. 217 on Brett Swain. Flynn became a valuable Packers backup and Super Bowl champion, giving Green Bay the superior return.
Washington sent picks No. 157 and No. 228 to St. Louis for Nos. 168 and 180. Washington selected punter Durant Brooks and safety Kareem Moore; Moore played 42 games with 13 starts, while Brooks lasted six games. The Rams selected Roy Schuening and Chris Chamberlain. Schuening contributed almost nothing, but Chamberlain became a four-year Ram with 59 games and 19 starts, giving St. Louis the stronger return.
Cincinnati acquired quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick from St. Louis on September 1, 2007 for a conditional future draft choice that became the 2008 seventh-round pick at No. 217 overall. Fitzpatrick later started 12 games for Cincinnati in 2008.
Denver acquired defensive tackle Jimmy Kennedy from St. Louis on June 8, 2007 for a conditional 2008 sixth-round pick, not a 2007 selection. The condition produced No. 180, later Kareem Moore. Kennedy did not appear in a regular-season game for Denver, while the Rams realized tangible draft capital. St. Louis earns a B- and Denver a D in a clear low-cost Rams win.
Detroit moved up to No. 117 and selected Manny Ramirez. During his original Lions stint from 2007 through 2009, Ramirez appeared in 18 games with 15 starts, giving Detroit a legitimate stretch of offensive-line service. His separate return to Detroit in 2015 is not part of this exchange, leaving the original contribution useful but smaller than the Rams' combined direct return.
Detroit Lions received 2007 5th round pick (154th overall subsequently traded, Clifton Ryan) in the deal with Los Angeles Rams. Detroit later combined pick 154 with another fifth-rounder to move up for Manuel Ramirez, who eventually started 15 Lions games. The draft asset produced useful downstream value. That outcome supports a B- for Detroit Lions. The Los Angeles Rams Win verdict weighs documented games, starts, production and connected draft value.
Buffalo Bills received Anthony Hargrove from St. Louis Rams, giving up 2007 5th round pick (148th overall subsequently traded, Kolby Smith). The supported return is a 2007 fifth-rounder at No. 148, not a 2008 choice. The return supports a C+ grade because the value directly tied to this deal fits that mark. The final verdict is Even Trade.
Minnesota sent offensive lineman Adam Goldberg to the Rams on September 2, 2006, for a 2008 seventh-round pick that became No. 209 and was later traded before Green Bay selected Matt Flynn. Goldberg became a durable Rams lineman, appearing in 83 games with 48 starts from 2006 through 2011. That sustained lineup value gives Los Angeles the clear win.
Cincinnati moved quarterback Dave Ragone to St. Louis for a conditional 2007 late-round selection, but the condition required Ragone to make the Rams' roster and the pick never conveyed. With no draft choice transferred and no regular-season contribution from Ragone, the exchange is best treated as a roster-management move rather than a meaningful talent transfer.
Los Angeles Chargers received Brandon Manumaleuna. San Diego received Brandon Manumaleuna, who became a multi-year blocking tight end and filled a useful role for the Chargers. That result supports a C+ for Los Angeles Chargers. The overall comparison favors Los Angeles/St. Louis Rams, leaving Los Angeles Chargers on the weaker side of the exchange. The grade reflects the realized player service and draft value tied directly to this transaction, without assigning extra credit for outcomes that cannot be traced confidently to the exchanged assets.
Denver traded the 15th and 68th picks to St. Louis to move to No. 11 in the 2006 draft and select quarterback Jay Cutler. Cutler became a Pro Bowler and threw for 4,526 yards in 2008 before Denver later moved him for another major package. The Rams used their selections on cornerback Tye Hill and defensive tackle Claude Wroten, neither of whom became a long-term cornerstone, leaving Denver with the stronger result.
Green Bay sent the 93rd pick in the 2006 draft to the Rams for Nos. 109 and 183. The Packers later traded No. 109 to Philadelphia for Nos. 115 and 185, while No. 183 became defensive lineman Johnny Jolly, a 47-game starter for Green Bay. The Rams used No. 93 on Dominique Byrd, whose NFL production was limited.
Green Bay received linebacker Robert Thomas at the 2005 roster deadline and got a useful partial season from him. Thomas gave the Packers defensive depth and real game participation, so the return was not a miss. However, the Rams received both defensive snaps and substantial kickoff-return production from Chris Johnson, leaving Green Bay with the lesser side and a C+.
St. Louis moved up 11 spots in the fifth round on April 24, 2005, sending Tampa Bay picks No. 155 and No. 231 for No. 144. The Rams selected Notre Dame tight end Jerome Collins, who appeared in only three regular-season games as a rookie without a start, reception or rushing attempt. Collins never played another NFL regular-season game, leaving St. Louis with only a brief reserve contribution from the trade-up.
Miami acquired running back Lamar Gordon from St. Louis just before the 2004 season for a 2005 third-round pick. Gordon appeared in only three games for the Dolphins before a shoulder injury ended his season. The Rams used the 66th overall choice on safety O.J. Atogwe, who became a long-term starter and one of their most productive defensive backs. The difference in duration and impact makes this a decisive Rams win.
The Rams moved from No. 26 to No. 24 in the 2004 draft and selected Steven Jackson, sending Cincinnati the 26th pick and No. 123. Jackson became the Rams' franchise rushing leader with 10,138 yards during his nine seasons with the club. Cincinnati selected Chris Perry and Stacy Andrews, who provided some value but never approached Jackson's impact. A small move up produced a franchise cornerstone for St. Louis.
Indianapolis traded safety Rich Coady to St. Louis at the end of the 2003 preseason for a 2004 seventh-round pick, which became kicker David Kimball at No. 229. The Rams received immediate defensive-back depth and the Colts received a late selection, but neither return developed into meaningful long-term team-specific value.
St. Louis acquired right tackle Kyle Turley from New Orleans in March 2003 for a 2004 second-round pick. Turley started all 16 games for the 12-4 Rams in his first season, but serious back problems prevented him from playing again for St. Louis. New Orleans used the 60th overall pick on linebacker Courtney Watson, whose Saints tenure was also limited. The Saints win because they converted Turley into premium draft capital before his availability collapsed.
Washington obtained running back Trung Canidate from St. Louis for guard David Loverne and a 2003 fourth-round pick, later used on DeJuan Groce. Canidate led Washington in rushing in 2003 with 600 yards across 11 games, while the Rams received line depth and a defensive back. St. Louis collected multiple pieces, but Washington got the strongest immediate on-field production from the exchange.
Los Angeles Rams received Troy Edwards from Pittsburgh Steelers. The Rams received Troy Edwards and obtained a modest receiving contribution during the 2002 season. He gave St. Louis immediate regular-season value after the exchange. That outcome supports a C+ grade for Los Angeles Rams. The final verdict is Los Angeles Rams Win, based on the football value the club actually realized from the assets it controlled after the exchange.
The Rams acquired Grant Williams and received three seasons of useful offensive-line service. Williams appeared in 37 games with 14 starts for St. Louis from 2002 through 2004, giving the club dependable depth and occasional starting work. That direct on-field contribution was meaningful for the cost and ultimately exceeded the practical value New England realized after moving the acquired seventh-round selection again.
St. Louis acquired linebacker Kole Ayi from New England for an undisclosed 2003 draft pick. Ayi appeared in six games with no starts and recorded five tackles for the 2002 Rams before landing on injured reserve. The exact Patriots pick remains unidentified in the surviving evidence, so New England should receive credit only for obtaining draft capital. Neither side has enough traceable value to create a meaningful grade gap.
Indianapolis sent return specialist Terrence Wilkins to the Rams for the 183rd pick in the 2002 draft, which the Colts used on safety James Lewis. Lewis did not become a regular-season contributor for Indianapolis. Wilkins, by contrast, immediately handled heavy kickoff- and punt-return work for St. Louis in 2002, including more than 1,000 kickoff-return yards. The Rams received the only substantial NFL value from the exchange.
Houston acquired cornerback Jacoby Shepherd from St. Louis on March 28, 2002 for a conditional 2003 seventh-round draft choice. The condition was not met, so the pick was not conveyed. Shepherd never appeared in a Texans regular-season game and was waived before the 2002 season, leaving both clubs with no realized regular-season return from the exchange.
Kansas City Chiefs received Joe Germaine from Los Angeles Rams in the 2001-09-03 trade. Kansas City acquired Joe Germaine, a depth quarterback whose Chiefs tenure produced little regular-season value. Los Angeles Rams's return was 2002 6th round pick (183rd overall subsequently traded, James Lewis). The Rams received the 2002 sixth-round pick at No. 183 and later traded it to Indianapolis for Terrence Wilkins. Those realized outcomes, rather than the labels on the assets alone, drive the hindsight grade.
The Rams moved from No. 145 to No. 154 and added No. 186, while Washington used No. 145 on cornerback Jerametrius Butler. Washington selected receiver Darnerien McCants at No. 154 and Mario Monds at No. 186. McCants contributed 58 receptions and eight touchdowns, but Butler produced the strongest career in the deal, appearing in 71 games and intercepting nine passes. That gives the Rams the better return.
Arizona traded Aeneas Williams to the Rams on April 21, 2001 for the 54th and 123rd picks. The Cardinals used those selections on Michael Stone and Marcus Bell. Williams, already a decorated veteran, became an immediate centerpiece for St. Louis, helping the Rams reach Super Bowl XXXVI and later earning Hall of Fame induction. The draft return did not approach his post-trade impact, giving the Rams a clear win.
Oakland acquired veteran tight end Roland Williams from St. Louis for the 123rd selection in the 2001 draft. Williams provided established NFL depth to a contender. The Rams immediately combined pick No. 123 with No. 54 in a separate trade for Aeneas Williams, an eight-time Pro Bowl defensive back who became an important part of their 2001 NFC championship defense.
Kansas City traded the No. 12 pick for Trent Green and a fifth-round pick. Green became a two-time Pro Bowler, started every game for five straight seasons, and directed one of the league's most productive offenses. The Rams selected Damione Lewis, who had a long NFL career, but Kansas City received the franchise quarterback and the stronger total value.
The Rams traded defensive end Kevin Carter to Tennessee in April 2001 for the 29th pick, which became defensive tackle Ryan Pickett. Carter started every game in four Titans seasons, totaled 23.5 sacks and reached the Pro Bowl in 2002. Pickett became a four-year starter for St. Louis after his rookie season and later enjoyed a 207-game NFL career. Both teams converted the exchange into substantial front-seven value, making this a strong even trade.
St. Louis acquired punter John Baker from Indianapolis for a 2002 sixth-round pick. Baker became the Rams’ punter for the 2000 and 2001 seasons, appearing in 31 games and handling 86 punts, including the season that ended in Super Bowl XXXVI. Indianapolis used pick No. 204 on running back Brian Allen, who played only four NFL games. Two seasons of starting specialist value gives St. Louis the win.
Chicago traded down from pick No. 104 in the 2000 draft, sending the selection to the Rams for Nos. 125, 150 and 225. Los Angeles used No. 104 on tackle Kaulana Noa, while Chicago used No. 125 on defensive back Reggie Austin and retained two additional pieces of draft capital. The Bears created slightly more aggregate value and earn a C+ to C win.
Denver sent veteran running back Derek Loville to St. Louis for the 189th pick in the 2000 draft. The Broncos used that sixth-round selection on Mike Anderson, who won AP Offensive Rookie of the Year, rushed for 4,067 career yards and scored 37 rushing touchdowns. Loville was near the end of his career. Turning a fringe veteran into an award-winning starting back makes this an overwhelming Denver win.
The Rams received the 2000 fifth-round pick used on Brian Young and a 2001 fifth-round selection later moved in the Darnerien McCants chain. Young developed into a long-term NFL defensive lineman, giving St. Louis substantial realized value. The A- grade reflects that durable contribution plus the additional future asset and supports a Los Angeles Rams Win verdict.
Los Angeles Rams
Detroit acquired running back Greg Hill from St. Louis on August 31, 1999 for fifth- and seventh-round picks in the 2000 draft. Hill gave the Lions 542 rushing yards, 77 receiving yards and two touchdowns in 14 games, starting eight times during a playoff season. St. Louis gained two future selections, but the immediate on-field return Detroit received makes the deal a modest Lions win rather than a major swing.
Kansas City Chiefs received Mitch Jacoby from Los Angeles Rams in the 1999-08-31 trade. Kansas City acquired tight end Mitch Jacoby, who appeared in five games for the Chiefs and caught one pass for six yards. Los Angeles Rams's return was 2000 6th round pick (189th overall subsequently traded, Mike Anderson). The Rams received pick No. 189 and later moved it to Denver for Derek Loville. Those realized outcomes, rather than the labels on the assets alone, drive the hindsight grade.
Oakland received the 2000 seventh-round choice later identified as No. 238 and subsequently moved the selection. The Raiders preserved a small future asset, but they did not realize an on-field return from the transaction comparable to the depth Paul Justin provided St. Louis. That outcome supports a C grade for Las Vegas Raiders within the final Los Angeles Rams Win verdict.
On 1999-08-13, Green Bay Packers received Aaron Laing, while Los Angeles Rams received undisclosed draft pick. The hindsight verdict is Green Bay Packers Win, with Green Bay Packers graded C+ and Los Angeles Rams graded C. The evaluation follows the documented consideration and the football value that can be traced from it, while treating conditional terms and later draft outcomes as context rather than as assets exchanged directly on trade day.
Green Bay Packers received 2001 7th round pick while Los Angeles Rams received Mike Morton. Green Bay received a future seventh-round choice, but that slot was later moved in a separate multi-pick transaction. The Packers therefore gained modest draft flexibility without a clean, direct player outcome that can be credited solely to this deal. That outcome supports a C+ grade for Green Bay Packers in this trade.
Baltimore Ravens received Tony Banks. Tony Banks started eighteen games across two Baltimore seasons and provided meaningful quarterback play before the Ravens changed direction during the 2000 championship season. Compared with Los Angeles Rams' return, the result supports a B grade and fits the Baltimore Ravens Win verdict.
The Rams' trade for Marshall Faulk became one of the greatest offensive acquisitions in NFL history. St. Louis paid a modest draft-pick price for a Hall of Fame running back who became the centerpiece of the Greatest Show on Turf. Indianapolis moved a star. The Rams acquired a championship engine. The deal became historic because Faulk did not merely improve the Rams; he helped unlock one of the most famous offenses the league has ever seen.
St. Louis traded wide receiver Eddie Kennison to New Orleans for the 41st pick in the 1999 draft and used it on cornerback Dre’ Bly. Bly played 167 NFL games, intercepted 43 passes, made two Pro Bowls and won a Super Bowl as a rookie. Kennison remained a productive NFL receiver, but his Saints stay was brief, giving the Rams the stronger long-term return.
New England traded defensive end/linebacker Mike Jones to St. Louis on August 30, 1998 for a future draft choice that became the Rams' 2000 fifth-round pick, No. 161. The Patriots used it on Missouri defensive tackle Jeff Marriott, who was released before the 2000 regular season.
the Rams received 1998 3rd round pick (65th overall, Leonard Little), while the Jets received 1998 3rd round pick (67th overall, Scott Frost), 1998 7th round pick (195th overall, Lawrence Hart). The hindsight grades are A- for the Rams and D for the Jets. The verdict is grounded in the actual starts, production, tenure and downstream draft results produced by those assets.
Green Bay Packers received 1999 7th round pick (212th overall, Chris Akins) from Los Angeles Rams. Green Bay received the 1999 seventh-round selection used on Chris Akins. Akins eventually appeared in Packers games, but only after spending time elsewhere, making the return modest and delayed. That outcome supports a C grade for Green Bay Packers when the trade is measured by the football value actually realized after the exchange.
Miami traded the 112th pick to the Rams and received Nos. 121, 170 and 173. The Rams used No. 112 on Ryan Tucker, who became a 134-game NFL lineman and later started 102 games. Miami's three selections produced Jerome Daniels, Brian Manning and Mike Crawford, whose combined NFL impact was limited. The quality of Tucker's career makes the Rams the clear winner of the trade-up.
The Rams sent the 138th pick to San Diego for the 215th pick and a 1998 fourth-rounder. The Chargers used No. 138 on Kenny Bynum, who played 53 NFL games but never became a major offensive piece. St. Louis turned the future fourth-rounder into Az-Zahir Hakim, a productive receiver and returner on the Greatest Show on Turf. That delayed asset made the Rams the clear winner.
The Rams moved down two spots in the 1997 second round, sending No. 38 to Chicago for No. 40 and a sixth-round pick. St. Louis selected cornerback Dexter McCleon at No. 40, and he became a long-term starter who played 148 NFL games and won a Super Bowl with the Rams. Chicago selected John Allred, whose career was far more limited.
St. Louis acquired the No. 1 pick from the Jets in April 1997 for selections 6, 67, 102 and 207, then drafted Orlando Pace. Pace became a Hall of Fame left tackle, seven-time Pro Bowler and cornerstone of the Rams' Super Bowl teams. New York successfully redistributed much of the return into several contributors, but none matched Pace's elite value, giving St. Louis the win.
Miami acquired tight end Troy Drayton from the Rams for offensive tackle Billy Milner in an October 1996 player-for-player swap. Drayton immediately became a substantial part of the Dolphins offense and remained a regular starter through 1999. Milner played only ten games for the Rams after the trade and his career was cut short, leaving Miami with the clearly stronger multi-year return.
Denver Broncos received Todd Kinchen in the 1996-08-26 exchange with Los Angeles Rams. Todd Kinchen provided short-term return-game help for Denver without becoming a long-term core contributor. The direct package, rather than later movement of any acquired asset, is the basis for the hindsight judgment. Against what Denver Broncos surrendered, the result supports Even Trade.
Los Angeles Rams received 1997 sixth-round pick No. 179, Muadianvita Kazadi; Tennessee Titans received Robert Young. Kazadi played 12 games as a Rams rookie reserve in 1997 with no starts. Young became Houston's starting right defensive end in 1996, starting 13 games, appearing in 15 and recording four sacks. The realized returns support Tennessee Titans Win, with Los Angeles Rams graded C and Tennessee Titans graded B-.
Chicago traded picks 18, 83 and 201 to St. Louis in 1996 for No. 13 and selected cornerback Walt Harris. Harris became a six-year Bears starter and later a Pro Bowler, giving Chicago meaningful value. The Rams drafted Eddie Kennison, Jerald Moore and Hayward Clay; Kennison had the strongest overall career but much of it came after St. Louis. The broader package gives the Rams a narrow win.
Pittsburgh acquired Jerome Bettis and a third-round pick for a package led by Ernie Conwell and future fourth-round value. Bettis became a Hall of Fame runner, the identity of the Steelers offense, and a central figure in a championship era. The Rams received useful value, but Pittsburgh acquired the player who defined the deal.
Washington acquired defensive tackle Sean Gilbert from the Rams for the sixth pick in the 1996 draft and received immediate high-level defensive production. Gilbert recorded 10.5 sacks in his first Washington season and gave the club an established interior force during a competitive stretch. The relationship later became complicated by a contract dispute, but the football return still compared favorably with what St. Louis ultimately received from the premium pick.
Detroit moved from No. 82 to No. 70 for tight end David Sloan, giving the Rams Nos. 82 and 115. Sloan became a long-term Lions contributor, playing 110 NFL games, catching 192 passes and earning a Pro Bowl selection. The Rams selected kicker Steve McLaughlin and tight end Lovell Pinkney; each played only eight NFL games. Detroit turned a modest move up into the only durable player.
Denver acquired quarterback Tommy Maddox from the Rams on August 27, 1994 for a 1995 fourth-round pick that became No. 124. Maddox did not develop into a major long-term answer for Denver, while the Rams likewise failed to turn the selection into standout value. With limited realized payoff on both sides, the deal settles near the middle of the grading scale.
Dallas sent a 1995 fourth-round pick to the Rams for the 1994 sixth-round selection used on Darren Studstill. Studstill played 16 NFL games and provided little sustained value. Los Angeles later traded the future fourth-rounder to Denver for quarterback Tommy Maddox, who appeared in five Rams games in 1994 and served as short-term depth.
Indianapolis moved into the fifth overall position in the 1994 draft and selected linebacker Trev Alberts. Alberts played only 29 NFL games and recorded four sacks before injuries ended his career. The Rams controlled the outgoing draft position and later moved the selection again, preserving additional value rather than directly selecting the player who ultimately went at that slot.
San Francisco moved from No. 15 to No. 7 in the 1994 first round and used the higher pick on defensive tackle Bryant Young, while the Rams collected No. 15 plus second- and third-round selections. Wayne Gandy became a long-term starter, but Young developed into a Hall of Fame cornerstone, giving San Francisco the stronger return despite the Rams' useful volume.
Los Angeles Chargers received 1995 4th round pick (104th overall, Aaron Hayden) in the 1994-04-11 exchange with Los Angeles/St. Louis Rams. Hayden gave San Diego one productive partial rushing season plus another year of depth, creating real value from the fourth-round pick. The realized value remains close enough to support an even result.
San Diego Chargers received 1995 6th round pick (177th overall, Troy Sienkiewicz) in the 1994-03-18 exchange with Los Angeles Rams, giving up Nate Lewis. The sixth-round choice became No. 177, Troy Sienkiewicz, giving San Diego a later draft asset after moving a veteran receiver. That return supports a B- grade for San Diego Chargers. The final verdict is Los Angeles/San Diego Chargers Win, based on the football value tied directly to the assets in this deal.
The Rams traded veteran quarterback Jim Everett to New Orleans in March 1994 for a 1995 seventh-round pick. Everett was no longer Los Angeles' long-term answer, but he went on to give New Orleans multiple seasons of starting quarterback play. The Rams received only late-round compensation for a veteran who remained capable of starting elsewhere.
Dallas acquired tight end Jim Price from the Los Angeles Rams on October 5, 1993 for a 1994 sixth-round pick. The Rams used the selection, No. 189, on Ronald Edwards. Dallas was seeking an in-season veteran option and paid only late draft capital, while Los Angeles converted a movable player into a rookie opportunity. Neither side found major long-term value, but Dallas received the slightly clearer immediate benefit.
Arizona received a conditional fifth-round selection that ultimately became No. 135, Pat O'Neill. The pick carried real transaction value, but O'Neill did not become a significant NFL contributor. The Cardinals therefore realized only modest long-term football return from the exchange. That limited outcome closely matches what the Rams received from Ernie Jones and supports a balanced grade rather than a clear winner.
Las Vegas Raiders received conditional draft pick (not exercised) from Los Angeles Rams in the 1993-08-24 trade. Los Angeles acquired Sam Graddy on a condition tied to his making the Rams. Los Angeles Rams's return was Sam Graddy. Because Graddy did not make the roster, the conditional Raiders draft pick was not exercised; the Raiders received no realized pick. Those realized outcomes, rather than the labels on the assets alone, drive the hindsight grade.
The Rams acquired linebacker Chris Martin from Kansas City in May 1993 for a conditional 1994 draft choice tied to his playing time. The condition became pick No. 199, which the Chiefs used on quarterback Steve Matthews. Martin gave Los Angeles two seasons of useful veteran service, while Matthews appeared in only three NFL games, producing a clear but modest Rams win.
Indianapolis sent the 73rd and 127th picks to the Rams for No. 65 in the 1993 draft and selected cornerback Ray Buchanan. The Rams chose Russell White and Chuck Belin with the return. Buchanan became a long-term NFL starter and intercepted 16 passes during his Colts tenure before later starring in Atlanta, giving Indianapolis the best realized value from the exchange.
San Diego sent offensive lineman Leo Goeas to the Rams for the 1993 fourth-round pick used on defensive end Raylee Johnson at No. 95. Johnson became a long-term Chargers pass rusher, remaining with the club through 2003 and producing several strong sack seasons. Goeas gave the Rams experienced line depth, but the fourth-round conversion created far more sustained value for San Diego.
Cleveland acquired linebacker Frank Stams from the Rams on August 24, 1992 for an eighth-round choice in the 1993 draft. Stams gave the Browns several seasons of defensive depth after injuries had derailed his Rams tenure. Los Angeles used the pick at No. 209 on Maa Tanuvasa, but his meaningful NFL success came later with Denver. Cleveland gets a narrow C+ to C edge.
Indianapolis acquired veteran tackle Irv Pankey from the Rams in September 1991 for third- and eleventh-round selections in the 1992 draft. Pankey's Colts stay was brief, while the Rams used the third-rounder on Marc Boutte, who started 31 of 32 games across his first two NFL seasons. Los Angeles received the more durable and useful return.
Denver acquired running back Gaston Green and the 89th pick in the 1991 draft from the Rams for offensive tackle Gerald Perry and pick No. 311. Green immediately produced a Pro Bowl season for Denver, while the fourth-round pick became Derek Russell. Los Angeles received Perry and used the late pick on Jeff Pahukoa. Green's immediate peak season gives Denver the clear practical advantage.
The Rams acquired punter Keith English from San Diego for a 1991 tenth-round pick, No. 254, used on Roland Poles. English handled the Rams' punting job for all 16 games in 1990, recording 68 punts. Poles did not develop into a comparable NFL contributor. San Diego recovered a late selection, but Los Angeles received a full season from a specialist at a minimal acquisition cost.
The Raiders acquired running back Greg Bell from the Rams on June 19, 1990, for a 1991 fourth-round pick that became No. 107, Robert Bailey. Bell had just posted consecutive 1,000-yard rushing seasons in Los Angeles but produced only 164 rushing yards in six games for the Raiders. Bailey became a multi-year NFL defensive back, giving the Rams the stronger long-term return.
Detroit traded quarterback Chuck Long to the Los Angeles Rams in May 1990 for a 1991 third-round pick, later No. 58 Reggie Barrett. Long appeared in only four Rams games and attempted five passes, while Barrett also had a limited Detroit career. Neither return became important, but Detroit at least converted a fading quarterback asset into valuable third-round draft capital.
The Rams sent the Jets the 134th pick in the 1990 draft for veteran cornerback Bobby Humphery. Los Angeles wanted an experienced starter and got immediate use from Humphery, who played all 16 games, started 10 and intercepted four passes in 1990. New York used the fifth-round pick on Robert McWright, whose Jets impact was limited. The Rams got the better short-term football return.
Los Angeles Rams
Detroit traded tight end Pat Carter to the Los Angeles Rams in August 1989 for a 1990 fourth-round pick that became No. 105 Chris Oldham. Oldham played one season for Detroit, while Carter spent multiple seasons with the Rams and eventually became a regular starter. The Rams received substantially more sustained team value from the direct exchange.
The Rams sent three late 1989 draft choices to Tampa Bay on April 24, 1989 - picks No. 290, No. 302 and No. 329 - for the Buccaneers' 1990 eighth-round pick. Tampa selected Willie Griffin, Herb Duncan and Terry Young, while Los Angeles later used No. 198 on Ray Savage. None developed into a meaningful long-term contributor for the acquiring club.
Los Angeles received the 1988 twelfth-round selection associated with Jeff Beathard plus a 1989 eleventh-round choice tied to Willie Griffin. Those late-round assets did not turn into meaningful direct Rams production. The package gave Los Angeles extra draft opportunities, but the eventual football return was too small to create a clear advantage in a deal built entirely around late selections.
San Diego sent veteran tight end Pete Holohan to the Rams during the 1988 draft and received the 91st overall selection, which became defensive lineman Joe Campbell Jr. Holohan gave Los Angeles an experienced receiving option, while Campbell provided San Diego with a young defensive asset. Neither return became a franchise-defining piece, but converting an older player into a fourth-round pick gave the Chargers the better age-and-control profile.
Washington traded picks No. 82, No. 137 and No. 165 to the Rams in the 1988 draft for No. 66, used on running back Mike Oliphant. Los Angeles found a useful defensive lineman in Mike Piel, who played 50 Rams games with 13 sacks. Washington's value became larger one year later when it traded Oliphant straight up for Earnest Byner, turning the acquired asset into a major multi-year contributor.
The 1987 three-team blockbuster sent Eric Dickerson from the Rams to Indianapolis and the rights to Cornelius Bennett from the Colts to Buffalo. Los Angeles received Greg Bell, Owen Gill, and six draft choices: first-rounders that became Gaston Green, Aaron Cox, and Cleveland Gary, plus second-rounders Fred Strickland, Frank Stams, and Darryl Henley. All three clubs received substantial assets.
San Diego traded guard Jeff Walker to the Los Angeles Rams for an eleventh-round choice in the 1988 draft, No. 285, which became center Ed Miller. Walker gave the Rams an experienced offensive lineman for the 1987 season, while Miller represented a low-cost developmental swing for San Diego. The exchange stayed modest, but the Rams received the more immediate and dependable football value.
Los Angeles sent Barry Redden to San Diego for fullback Buford McGee, a 1988 second-round pick and a conditional 1989 pick. The Rams converted those selections into Flipper Anderson and Thom Kaumeyer. Redden barely played for the Chargers, while McGee became a useful Rams fullback and Anderson developed into a productive deep threat. The realized return makes Los Angeles the clear winner.
The Rams traded the third-round selection that became kicker Jeff Jaeger to Cleveland and received three later choices, used on Larry Kelm, Scott Mersereau and Fred Stokes. Jaeger kicked in only 10 games for the Browns before his long career continued elsewhere. Los Angeles obtained more direct roster value, especially from Kelm, and also received early contributions from Stokes before his career expanded with other clubs.
Chicago acquired Doug Flutie's NFL rights and the Rams' 1987 fourth-round pick for its 1987 third- and sixth-round choices. Flutie played only four regular-season games for the Bears in 1986 plus one in 1987 before being traded to New England, while No. 101 Sean Smith had a short Bears career. The Rams leveraged No. 82 into more picks, including linebacker Larry Kelm, and also drafted Jon Embree at No. 166.
Los Angeles acquired the rights to quarterback Jim Everett from Houston in September 1986 for Kent Hill, William Fuller and a package of premium future picks. Everett became the Rams' long-term starter and produced some of the franchise's best passing seasons of the era. Houston received immediate veteran help and substantial draft capital, creating meaningful value on both sides.
Denver received two future selections that became Steve Roberts and Pat Kelly. Roberts did not create NFL value, but Kelly gave the Broncos two full seasons of roster service and made the package at least modestly productive. The return was not substantial, yet Denver extracted more useful football value from the future picks than Los Angeles received from Steve Busick after the trade.
Indianapolis sent the 144th pick to the Rams in the 1986 draft for picks No. 172, No. 190 and No. 326. The Colts selected Chris White, Tommy Sims and Isaac Williams; Sims appeared in one NFL game, while White and Williams did not become regular-season Colts contributors. The Rams used No. 144 on Robert Cox, later Robert Jenkins, who developed into a multi-year NFL linebacker, giving Los Angeles the better return.
Los Angeles received the 71st pick in the 1986 draft and used it on quarterback Hugh Millen. San Francisco received the rights to Jeff Kemp plus picks No. 96 and No. 101, selections that became Charles Haley and Steve Wallace. Haley developed into a Hall of Fame pass rusher and Wallace into a long-term starting tackle, making this an overwhelming 49ers victory.
The Rams sent Cleveland the rights to Canadian receiver Terry Greer and received the Browns' 1986 fourth-round selection, No. 96. Greer produced only a small amount of offense for Cleveland, while Los Angeles retained a useful draft asset and later included No. 96 in another transaction. The Rams therefore extracted more practical value even though they did not themselves select Charles Haley.
Detroit Lions received 1986 twelfth round pick (selection not identified) from Los Angeles Rams, while Los Angeles Rams received James McDonald in the 1985-10-15 deal. In hindsight, Detroit Lions's return did not separate far enough from Los Angeles Rams to justify a higher grade. The final grades are B- for Detroit Lions and B- for Los Angeles Rams, producing a verdict of Even Trade. The rating reflects the documented package, the certainty of the consideration, and the football value that can actually be assigned in hindsight.
Denver acquired tight end Mike Barber from the Rams in October 1985. Barber appeared in ten games for the Broncos but caught only one pass, so the club received limited on-field value from the veteran addition. The C grade reflects that modest contribution and keeps the result level with Los Angeles, whose twelfth-round return also failed to create meaningful separation.
Los Angeles acquired defensive end Dennis Harrison from Philadelphia on September 28, 1985 for a 1986 fourth-round pick and a 1987 seventh-round asset later used in the 1986 supplemental draft. Harrison supplied three sacks in 12 Rams games, but his stay was brief. The two outgoing assets ultimately gave Philadelphia substantially more lasting value than the Rams received.
Los Angeles Chargers received Gary Kowalski and 1986 fifth round pick (#133-Matt Johnson). San Diego received Gary Kowalski and the 1986 fifth-round choice used on Matt Johnson. The return produced limited direct value compared with what Duckworth gave the Rams immediately. Compared with Los Angeles Rams' return, the result supports a D+ grade and fits the Los Angeles Rams Win verdict.
Washington acquired tackle Dan McQuaid from the Los Angeles Rams on August 24, 1985 for its 1986 fourth-round choice, which became No. 101. McQuaid played 30 regular-season games with three starts for Washington from 1985 through 1987.
Los Angeles Rams received 1986 eighth round pick (#195-Steve Jarecki) in the deal with Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Los Angeles used the eighth-round selection on Steve Jarecki, who did not provide comparable NFL value. The Rams recovered draft capital, but the selected player's direct return was limited. That outcome supports a D for Los Angeles Rams. The Tampa Bay Buccaneers Win verdict weighs documented games, starts, production and connected draft value.
Buffalo acquired Vince Ferragamo and a 1986 third-round pick, No. 77 overall, from the Rams for tight end Tony Hunter on July 18, 1985. Ferragamo struggled badly as Buffalo’s quarterback, while No. 77 became Leonard Burton, a reserve lineman. Hunter had one useful Rams season. Neither side turned the exchange into substantial lasting value, producing a modest draw.
Houston acquired wide receiver Drew Hill from the Rams in July 1985 for conditional middle-round draft compensation that is recorded as the 1986 No. 172 choice and the 1987 No. 91 choice. Hill immediately became a central Oilers receiver and stayed productive through 1991, giving Houston far more realized on-field value than the conditional picks produced for Los Angeles.
Minnesota sent quarterback Steve Dils to the Rams in September 1984 for a 1985 fourth-round pick, No. 106, used on Kyle Morrell. Dils appeared in 52 games for Los Angeles from 1984 through 1987 and made nine starts, while Morrell played only five NFL games with one start for Minnesota. The Rams received the more useful and durable return.
Los Angeles Rams received Booker Reese in the deal with Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Reese played nine Rams games in 1984 and two more in 1985 without a start. Los Angeles received some reserve-line service but little production or lineup impact. That outcome supports a C+ for Los Angeles Rams. The Los Angeles Rams Win verdict weighs documented games, starts, production and connected draft value.
Indianapolis acquired George Radachowsky from the Rams on August 27, 1984 for a 1985 eleventh-round pick. Radachowsky played all 16 games as a Colts rookie and three more in 1985, giving Indianapolis immediate depth. Los Angeles used the pick on Doug Flutie, who never played for the Rams but whose rights were later traded to Chicago for future draft value. Both teams extracted something useful.
The Rams traded wide receiver Preston Dennard to Buffalo in 1984 for a 1985 fifth-round pick. Los Angeles used that No. 113 selection on Kevin Greene, who developed into a Hall of Fame pass rusher and one of the most productive sack artists in NFL history. Dennard gave Buffalo one useful season, but the draft choice's extraordinary conversion makes this a decisive Rams victory.
Cincinnati Bengals received undisclosed conditional pick (if Christensen makes Rams roster) (not exercised) from Los Angeles Rams in the 1984-07-25 trade. Los Angeles acquired Jeff Christensen on a roster condition. Los Angeles Rams's return was Jeff Christensen. Because Christensen did not make the required roster threshold, Cincinnati's conditional draft compensation was not exercised. Those realized outcomes, rather than the labels on the assets alone, drive the hindsight grade.
The Rams acquired veteran cornerback Gary Green from Kansas City for the selections that became first-round tackle John Alt and fifth-rounder Jeff Paine. Green rewarded Los Angeles with two strong seasons and nine interceptions, so the Rams received genuine value. Alt's 13-year Chiefs career and 149 starts ultimately gave Kansas City the more durable and valuable return.
Chicago received three seasons of useful backup quarterback play from Steve Fuller: 38 games, 11 starts, 1,823 passing yards and a 6-5 record as a fill-in starter, including three straight wins during the 1985 championship season. Los Angeles got no Rams games from Michael Harper and 51 games but only two starts from Mike Young. Fuller's greater direct impact supports Chicago Bears Win, B to C+.
Los Angeles sent Cleveland its 1984 second-round pick for the exclusive negotiating rights to sprinter and wide receiver Ron Brown, whom the Browns had drafted in 1983. Cleveland used No. 48 on defensive back Chris Rockins. Rockins became a useful four-year contributor, but Brown developed into an All-Pro returner and multi-year Rams weapon, giving Los Angeles the stronger long-term payoff.
Los Angeles acquired running back Dwayne Crutchfield from Houston on April 9, 1984 for the Rams' sixth-round pick, which became No. 161 and wide receiver Eric Mullins. Crutchfield gave the Rams 337 rushing yards and two total touchdowns in 15 games. Mullins played 13 games for Houston and caught six passes for 85 yards and a touchdown. Los Angeles produced the stronger realized return, preserving a B/C+ Rams win.
Los Angeles/Cleveland/St. Louis Rams received 1984 twelfth round pick (#309-Rod Fisher) from Houston Oilers/Tennessee Titans, while Houston Oilers/Tennessee Titans received past considerations (details not identified) in the 1984-01-01 deal. Los Angeles converted the exchange into the No. 309 pick used on Rod Fisher, while Houston's side is recorded only as past considerations; the incomplete detail argues for restraint. The final grades are C+ for Los Angeles/Cleveland/St. Louis Rams and C+ for Houston Oilers/Tennessee Titans, producing a verdict of Even Trade.
Baltimore acquired quarterback Mark Reed from the Los Angeles Rams on August 31, 1983 in exchange for linebacker Mark Jerue. Reed appeared in only one game for the Colts that season, completing six of ten passes for 34 yards with one interception, and did not become a lasting answer at quarterback. The Colts surrendered a linebacker who went on to provide the Rams with years of useful defensive service.
Detroit ultimately sent tight end David Hill to the Rams for Los Angeles' 1984 third-round pick, No. 75, after the original Rod Perry-plus-1985-pick arrangement was voided when Perry failed his Lions physical. Detroit used No. 75 on defensive lineman Steve Baack, who played 55 games for the Lions from 1984 through 1987.
Los Angeles got 32 games and 18 starts from Eric Harris, including four interceptions in 1983, while Steve Fuller never played a Rams regular-season snap but was later traded for two draft picks, one of which became four-year Rams receiver Mike Young. Kansas City received useful one-season roles from Lucious Smith and Jewerl Thomas and later recycled its pick assets. Both sides found value, but the Rams' longer realized return earns the B+ to B edge.
The player-for-player portion immediately broke down when Pat Thomas failed the Raiders' physical and never played for them. Monte Jackson nevertheless remained with the Rams and appeared in five 1983 games with one start and 11 tackles; the conditional seventh-rounder was never exercised. Los Angeles therefore received the only regular-season value, producing a modest C-to-D Rams win.
On 1983-06-28, Green Bay Packers received undisclosed draft pick, while Los Angeles Rams received John Thompson Jr.. The final verdict is Even Trade, with Green Bay Packers graded B- and Los Angeles Rams graded B-. The hindsight view follows the documented consideration and later traceable value without treating every named pick outcome as if it had been directly exchanged on trade day. Any conditional, undisclosed, or unidentified component is credited only to the extent that the surviving evidence establishes it.
Detroit acquired veteran defensive lineman Mike Fanning for a future fifth-round pick. Fanning played 14 games with five starts for the Lions in 1983 and recorded a sack and a safety, giving Detroit immediate rotation and starting value. For a modest future selection, one full season of useful defensive-line service represents a solid return.
The Rams sent Wendell Tyler, veteran lineman Cody Jones and the No. 59 pick to San Francisco for picks No. 36 and No. 87 in the 1983 draft. Los Angeles used No. 36 on linebacker Mike Wilcher, who became a long-term starter and pass rusher for the Rams. Chuck Nelson was the other selection, giving Los Angeles substantial return from the package.
The Rams moved from No. 3 to No. 2 in the 1983 draft and selected Eric Dickerson, sending Houston No. 3 plus fourth-round choices in 1983 and 1984. Dickerson became a Hall of Fame superstar. Houston then traded No. 3 to Seattle and used the resulting package to select Hall of Famer Bruce Matthews plus additional players, creating major value for both clubs.
the Rams received Gary Jeter, while the Giants received 1983 third round pick (#63-Jamie Williams), 1983 sixth round pick (#153-Kevin Belcher). The hindsight grades are A- for the Rams and C+ for the Giants. The verdict is grounded in the actual starts, production, tenure and downstream draft results produced by those assets.
The Rams traded quarterback Jeff Rutledge to the Giants in September 1982 for the 1983 fourth-round pick that became safety Vince Newsome. Rutledge served as a long-term Giants backup and made four starts in 1983, but Newsome developed into a major Rams contributor. He played eight seasons for Los Angeles and started 69 games there, including 32 starts across 1989 and 1990.
Minnesota traded Hall of Fame tackle Ron Yary to the Rams late in the 1982 preseason for a 1983 tenth-round pick. Yary appeared in eight games for Los Angeles without a start before retiring. Minnesota used No. 255 on defensive back Melvin Brown, who did not become a meaningful NFL contributor. The Rams received the only measurable professional production from the exchange.
Detroit received Nos. 187 and 231 and selected Victor Simmons and Dan Wagoner. Simmons did not become a meaningful Lions contributor, but Wagoner supplied multiple seasons of NFL service and spent part of that career in Detroit. The package was modest, yet the added usable tenure gives the Lions a small realized-value edge over the Rams' single selection.
Los Angeles paid the fourth and 34th selections in the 1982 draft for veteran quarterback Bert Jones, hoping the former MVP-caliber passer could stabilize the position. Jones started only four games for the Rams before a serious neck injury ended his career. The short return made the price costly even though Baltimore's first-round choice, Art Schlichter, became a major disappointment.
The Rams acquired tight end Mike Barber plus 1982 picks No. 67 and No. 207 from Houston. The Oilers received Lewis Gilbert and picks No. 44 and No. 77, which became Oliver Luck and Robert Abraham. Barber gave Los Angeles several productive seasons, including 55 catches for 657 yards in 1983. Abraham became a 60-start linebacker for Houston, and Luck added quarterback depth, giving the Oilers the slight overall edge.
Los Angeles traded running back Eddie Hill to Miami for a 1983 fourth-round pick. Hill spent four seasons with the Dolphins but was used sparingly on offense, with 209 rushing yards across 52 regular-season games. The Rams used No. 111 in 1983 on defensive end Doug Reed, who became a seven-year contributor with 96 games, 81 starts and 22.5 sacks. Los Angeles clearly won the long-term exchange.
Washington moved Henry Childs to the Rams only days after acquiring him and received Los Angeles’ 1982 third-round pick at No. 61 plus a seventh-round choice at No. 172. Childs gave the Rams seven starts, 12 catches, 145 yards and one touchdown in 1981. Washington’s third-round selection became Carl Powell, who never appeared in an NFL regular-season game, but the two-pick return still favored Washington’s asset management.
Miami acquired linebacker Bob Brudzinski and the 1981 second-round pick used on fullback Andra Franklin from the Rams for three draft assets. Brudzinski became a long-term Dolphins starter, while Franklin rushed for 2,232 yards and made a Pro Bowl. Los Angeles used part of its return on linebacker Jim Collins, who became a Pro Bowler and long-term Rams starter.
Los Angeles moved up to No. 9 in the 1981 draft and selected linebacker Mel Owens, who spent nine seasons with the Rams, played 122 games, started 91 and recorded 26.5 sacks. Washington received selections No. 20, No. 52 and No. 105, led by guard Mark May, a long-term starter on championship teams. Both clubs converted the exchange into major multi-year value through foundational contributors.
Los Angeles acquired Washington's 1982 first-round pick, which became running back Barry Redden at No. 14. Washington received four selections, headlined by 1981 third-round guard Russ Grimm and the 1982 second-round pick used on cornerback Vernon Dean. Grimm became a Hall of Famer and three-time Super Bowl champion, while Dean intercepted 22 career passes. Redden was useful, but Washington's return was historically superior.
Buffalo Bills received Bill Simpson in the exchange with Los Angeles Rams. Simpson became an immediate and productive Buffalo safety. The Bills credited him with 113 tackles and four interceptions in 1981, giving the club substantial defensive value after the trade. The A- grade reflects the direct value Buffalo Bills realized from the deal, while the Even Trade call weighs actual regular-season service and clearly connected draft value rather than name recognition alone.
Los Angeles Chargers received Ron Smith / Ronnie Smith (Bernard). The Chargers received Ron Smith. Smith supplied some rotational receiving value for San Diego after the trade, giving the club a real but limited player return. That contribution keeps the Chargers competitive in the comparison, although it did not match the multi-season service the Rams later obtained from the correctly identified No. 134 selection, Otis Grant. That result supports a C+ grade for Los Angeles Chargers.
Las Vegas Raiders received Dwayne O'Steen in the deal with Los Angeles Rams. O'Steen played 31 Raiders games with 12 starts and four interceptions across 1980 and 1981. Oakland received two seasons of meaningful secondary depth and starting work. That outcome supports a B+ for Las Vegas Raiders. The Las Vegas Raiders Win verdict weighs documented games, starts, production and connected draft value.
Seattle sent the 1982 fifth-round pick that became No. 117 and Wally Kersten to the Rams for Jim Jodat. Jodat immediately became Seattle’s starting fullback, producing 632 rushing yards, 190 receiving yards and six total touchdowns in 1980; he finished his two-year Seahawks stay with 28 games and substantial backfield work. Kersten played only three games for Los Angeles in 1982 without a start. Seattle clearly received the stronger realized return.
Buffalo Bills received Ron Jessie in the exchange with Los Angeles Rams. Jessie played 31 regular-season games for Buffalo across 1980 and 1981, catching 19 passes for 256 yards and one touchdown. He gave the Bills two seasons of usable receiver depth. The B grade reflects the direct value Buffalo Bills realized from the deal, while the Buffalo Bills Win call weighs actual regular-season service and clearly connected draft value rather than name recognition alone.
Los Angeles moved up from No. 27 to No. 17 in the 1980 draft and also received a sixth-round pick, selecting defensive back Johnnie Johnson and fullback Mike Guman. Cleveland collected four selections, including Heisman winner Charles White at No. 27. The Rams ultimately received more durable NFL value, especially from Johnson, while White's best professional season came later with Los Angeles.
Kansas City sent veteran tight end Walter White and a 1980 seventh-round pick, correctly No. 176 Kirk Collins, to the Rams for a 1980 sixth-round pick, No. 164 Larry Heater, and a 1981 third-round pick, No. 78 Lloyd Burruss. Burruss became the defining asset, playing 145 games with 103 starts, earning a Pro Bowl selection and later entering the Chiefs Hall of Honor. The corrected pick numbers and Burruss' career make Kansas City the decisive winner.
The Rams sent veteran tight end Charle Young plus 1980 third- and fourth-round picks to San Francisco for the No. 58 pick in 1980 and a 1983 third-rounder. Los Angeles used No. 58 on Jewerl Thomas, who rushed for 427 yards as a rookie, and later used the future selection in another trade. The Rams received useful value, but Young became the strongest direct contributor.
Denver acquired veteran running back Lawrence McCutcheon from the Rams in April 1980 for a 1982 third-round selection, later No. 77. McCutcheon appeared in only six games for the Broncos, made no starts and was released during the season. Los Angeles retained the future third-round asset and later used it in another transaction. With Denver receiving very little on-field value, the Rams hold the clear advantage.
The Chargers acquired running back John Cappelletti from the Rams in March 1980 for a 1982 second-round pick, later No. 49. Cappelletti gave San Diego three seasons of useful work, appearing in 35 games and making 19 starts from 1980 through 1982. The Rams retained meaningful draft value and later included the pick in a larger trade-up package, but Cappelletti's direct multi-season contribution gives the Chargers a narrow edge.
Los Angeles Rams
Green Bay acquired rookie center Mike Wellman from the Rams for a 1981 fifth-round pick. Wellman stayed two seasons but never started, appearing in 20 games before leaving the Packers. Los Angeles gave up a recent third-rounder, yet recovered a tradable future fifth. With Green Bay receiving only reserve-level service, the Rams hold the modest hindsight edge.
Buffalo acquired linebacker Isiah Robertson and received four productive seasons from the established defender. Robertson appeared in 57 games for the Bills from 1979 through 1982 and intercepted seven passes, giving Buffalo a sustained veteran contribution. Los Angeles received the 1981 fourth-round selection used on George Lilja, whose most significant NFL work came after leaving the Rams.
Minnesota acquired running back Jerry Latin from the Los Angeles Rams on June 13, 1979 for an undisclosed draft choice. Contemporary transaction reporting confirms the player-for-pick structure. Latin never appeared in a Vikings regular-season game and was waived on August 16, so Minnesota received no regular-season production from the acquisition.
Cleveland received Rich Dimler at No. 124 and Jim Ronan at No. 163. Dimler played 12 games with two starts for the Browns in 1979, while Ronan never appeared in an NFL regular-season game. Los Angeles got no Rams games from Oscar Roan, but No. 122 Victor Hicks became a 14-game starter in 1980 with 23 catches, 318 yards and three touchdowns. The Rams keep the B-to-C win.
Arizona/St. Louis Cardinals received the 1979 eighth-round selection at No. 218 for Jerry Latin. The Cardinals later moved that pick to Kansas City, so their direct benefit was the draft currency rather than the player eventually selected there. The asset retained some value, but it did not produce a stronger direct return than Latin gave Los Angeles, supporting a C+.
Los Angeles received Tampa Bay's 1981 third-round pick, No. 63, and used it on defensive lineman Greg Meisner. Meisner played eight seasons with the Rams, appeared in 103 games for the club, and became a starter in multiple seasons. Tampa Bay got useful short-term line help, but Meisner's durability and long tenure gave Los Angeles the stronger return.
The Rams sent defensive lineman George Stanley "Stan" Johnson to Kansas City for the future third-round pick that became No. 58, Jeff Moore. Johnson played 10 games without a start for the Chiefs in 1978 and never appeared in another NFL season. Moore later played 24 games for the Rams, catching 17 passes for 273 yards and one touchdown. Los Angeles gained the slightly better, though still modest, return.
Oakland acquired cornerback Monte Jackson and received a proven starter who remained useful through the Raiders’ Super Bowl XV season. That was meaningful short-term value, but the price was three draft choices, and Los Angeles ultimately found far more durable value in the package, especially with the selection that became standout cornerback LeRoy Irvin.
Los Angeles traded veteran receiver Harold Jackson to New England for a 1979 third-round pick and a 1980 fourth-round pick. The selections became Mike Wellman and David Hodge, neither of whom approached Jackson’s impact for the Patriots. The Rams gained draft flexibility from an aging player, but the realized return remained modest.
On 1978-08-16, Los Angeles Rams received 1979 draft pick (round and selection not identified), while New York Jets received Andre Anderson (a). The hindsight verdict is New York Jets Win, with Los Angeles Rams graded C+ and New York Jets graded B. The evaluation follows the documented consideration and the football value that can be traced from it, while keeping unverified downstream pick identities or conditional outcomes out of the final judgment.
Green Bay acquired Rick Nuzum from the Rams in August 1978 for one 1980 fifth-round pick that became No. 116. Nuzum offered the Packers immediate roster depth but did not develop into a major long-term return. The Rams later moved No. 116 to Cleveland, which selected Elvis Franks, but that later transaction is downstream history. The direct exchange produced little separation.
Los Angeles received defensive back Eddie Brown and a 1981 seventh-round pick in a broad July 1978 exchange. Brown gave the Rams useful immediate value, including a productive 1979 season and postseason contributions, but the Rams surrendered several players and premium future choices. The return was real, yet not large enough to match Washington’s deeper package.
Cleveland moved down from No. 20 to No. 23 in the 1978 draft and added pick No. 103. The Browns used No. 23 on Ozzie Newsome, who became a Hall of Fame tight end and one of the defining players in franchise history. Los Angeles selected Elvis Peacock at No. 20, but his Rams production never approached Newsome's Cleveland impact.
Los Angeles Rams acquired Dan Ryczek from Tampa Bay for the sixth-round pick at No. 162 in the 1978 draft. Ryczek played all 16 regular-season games for Los Angeles and appeared in both playoff games as a reserve, giving the Rams immediate depth during a postseason season. That useful one-year contribution earns a B- and the better side of the deal.
San Diego acquired veteran tight end Bob Klein by sending the Rams a future second-round pick. Klein then produced 91 catches, 1,081 yards and eight touchdowns over three Chargers seasons, so the club received real short-term value. The price became more significant when Los Angeles later used that pick in a package to move up for Johnnie Johnson.
The Rams acquired center Ed Flanagan from the Chargers for a 1978 fifth-round pick that became No. 135 John Choma. Flanagan was waived before playing for the Rams, and Choma never played for the Chargers, leaving little direct value on either side. In hindsight, the grades are C for San Diego Chargers and C for Los Angeles Rams, producing a Push verdict. The modest scoring reflects the limited scale of the transaction.
Los Angeles Chargers received James Harris (Larnell), while Los Angeles Rams received 1979 fourth round pick (#99-Derwin Tucker). San Diego's trade history and the 1979 draft history confirm the June 7, 1977 acquisition of quarterback James Harris from the Rams for the future fourth-round selection that became No. 99 Derwin Tucker. That return earns a B grade for Los Angeles Chargers, and the overall verdict is Los Angeles Chargers Win.
Los Angeles acquired Seattle’s No. 31 pick in the 1977 draft and used it on Nolan Cromwell, who became one of the defining defensive backs of the Rams era. Cromwell spent 11 seasons with the club, reached four Pro Bowls and won major defensive honors, turning a second-round maneuver into elite long-term value.
Washington sent a future 1981 third-round pick to the Rams for three draft choices spanning 1977 and 1978. The transaction record associates the future third, with a probability qualifier, with No. 66 Robert Cobb, who played only six games for the Rams. Washington's package included the choice connected to Don Hover, who later played 32 NFL games, producing the stronger return.
Los Angeles acquired the rights to tight end Charle Young by sending the rights to quarterback Ron Jaworski to Philadelphia. Young had already been a productive Eagle, but his Rams stay did not approach the franchise-changing value Jaworski delivered in Philadelphia. The Rams received a legitimate veteran, yet surrendering a decade-long Eagles starter makes this a clear loss in hindsight.
San Diego acquired defensive lineman Leroy Jones from the Rams for a 1977 second-round choice and $12,500. Jones became an immediate starter and a productive long-term Charger, giving San Diego exactly the kind of front-line return expected for premium draft capital. His sustained defensive value makes the acquisition worthwhile.
Los Angeles sent guard Dan Nugent to Washington for future second- and third-round selections in the 1980 draft. The second-rounder became No. 50 Irv Pankey, who played 144 games and started 117 for the Rams. With another third-round asset also included, Los Angeles turned one useful lineman into far greater long-term roster value.
Los Angeles sent Ron Kecman and Gregg Butler to Philadelphia on August 24, 1976 for the Eagles' 1977 second-round pick. Butler was released by Philadelphia before the regular season, and Kecman did not become a lasting Eagles contributor. Even though the exact player selected with the returned choice is not identified here, the Rams clearly received the stronger asset.
Los Angeles Rams received Bivian Lee from New Orleans Saints in the 1976-08-08 trade. Los Angeles acquired cornerback Bivian Lee, a direct veteran roster return in 1976. New Orleans Saints's return was 1977 sixth round pick (#162-Tom Schick). New Orleans received the 1977 sixth-round pick at No. 162. Those realized outcomes, rather than the labels on the assets alone, drive the hindsight grade.
Los Angeles traded linebacker Ken Bordelon to New Orleans for a 1977 fourth-round pick and used No. 91 on quarterback Vince Ferragamo. Ferragamo eventually became a multi-year Rams starter and took over the 1979 team during its run to Super Bowl XIV, giving Los Angeles exceptional value from a fourth-round selection.
Tampa Bay sent the Rams 1976 fourth- and fifth-round selections, No. 94 Gerald Taylor and No. 155 Dwight Scales, for linebacker Jim Peterson on April 8, 1976. Peterson's Buccaneers stay produced almost no lasting value, while Scales became a multi-year Rams contributor. Los Angeles converted one expendable player into two draft assets and earns a B+ to Tampa Bay's D+.
San Diego acquired running back Tony Baker from the Los Angeles Rams in September 1975 for one 1976 fifth-round pick, No. 128 Carl Ekern. The separate 1977 Cliff Olander pick does not belong in this trade. Ekern became the far more durable NFL contributor, giving the Rams a strong hindsight return from a modest draft investment.
Washington acquired tackle Tim Stokes plus two 1976 draft choices from the Rams for four future picks. Stokes started 33 games for Washington from 1975 through 1977, providing meaningful line value. The Rams' return eventually included 1978 Pro Bowl kicker Frank Corral and additional draft capital that was moved in later deals. Los Angeles gets the edge, but Washington's useful starter prevents a poor grade.
On 1975-09-01, Los Angeles Rams received undisclosed draft pick (selection not identified), while New England Patriots received Derrick Williams (a). The final verdict is New England Patriots Win, with Los Angeles Rams graded C+ and New England Patriots graded B. The hindsight view follows the documented consideration and later traceable value without treating every named pick outcome as if it had been directly exchanged on trade day. Any conditional, undisclosed, or unidentified component is credited only to the extent that the surviving evidence establishes it.
San Diego acquired tight end Pat Curran and running back Howard Strickland from the Rams for a 1977 third-round choice. Curran immediately became a productive Chargers starter, catching 45 passes for 619 yards in 1975 and starting all 14 games in each of his first two San Diego seasons. The Rams used No. 68 on Ed Fulton, whose NFL career lasted nine games. San Diego won decisively.
Kansas City sent Dean Carlson to the Rams for conditional draft consideration, not a draft pick that can be traced to a later selection. Los Angeles' own 1976 media guide records the deal on an “if” basis and says “no deal,” while Carlson's transaction history shows the Rams released him less than three weeks after acquiring him. Because Carlson never played a regular-season game for Los Angeles and Kansas City received no conveyed pick, neither side realized meaningful value.
Green Bay acquired veteran center Bill Curry for a conditional future draft choice, but Curry's injury problems led him to retire during the 1975 preseason without appearing in a Packers regular-season game that year. The Rams did not receive a usable pick because the condition was not triggered. With zero realized on-field return on either side, C grades for both teams and an Even Trade verdict fit the realized outcome.
The Rams acquired kicker Tom Dempsey from Philadelphia for a future fourth-round choice whose surviving draft lineage is identified as probably No. 117. Dempsey immediately rewarded Los Angeles by making 21 of 26 field goals in 1975 and scoring a team-high 94 points. Philadelphia later moved the pick onward. The Rams received clear, productive veteran value and deserve the edge.
Arizona Cardinals: The Cardinals received no lasting player value because Iman failed the physical. The transaction therefore produced no usable roster return for St. Louis. The D grade reflects only value tied directly to this transaction, including production or draft value the club itself controlled. Against Los Angeles Rams, that supported return leads to the final verdict of Even Trade.
Buffalo Bills received 1975 fifth round pick (#125-Charles Waddell) in the exchange with Los Angeles Rams. Buffalo retained the fifth-round choice that became Charles Waddell and later redirected that draft capital in another transaction, preserving usable value. The supported hindsight grade is B-. That mark reflects realized value tied directly to this transaction, with the overall result recorded as Buffalo Bills Win.
Green Bay sent first-, second- and third-round choices in 1975 plus first- and second-round choices in 1976 to Los Angeles for 34-year-old quarterback John Hadl. Hadl went 7-12 as a Packers starter across 1974 and 1975 and threw nine touchdowns against 29 interceptions in his 22 Green Bay games. The Rams used or converted the haul into Mike Fanning, Monte Jackson, Geoff Reece, Ron Jessie and Pat Thomas, with Jackson and Thomas becoming Pro Bowl defensive backs. That balance of realized value gives the edge to Los Angeles Rams.
The Chargers received the 1975 sixth-round choice at No. 151, then moved that pick to Chicago for Jim Harrison before the Bears selected Tom Hicks. Harrison did not deliver a regular-season return for San Diego, so the downstream value was minimal. That outcome supports a D+ grade within the Los Angeles Rams Win verdict. The grade reflects realized football value rather than the size of the original package.
Green Bay received veteran tackle Harry Schuh late in the 1974 preseason and got immediate line help. Schuh appeared in all 14 regular-season games and started seven for the Packers, giving the club useful short-term value from a modest acquisition. That playing time comfortably exceeded the return generated by the late draft choice Green Bay surrendered, supporting a B grade for the Packers.
San Diego acquired Jon Knoble for only $100, an extremely small price even for a fringe roster move. Knoble did not go on to create meaningful regular-season NFL value for the Chargers, so the club gained little beyond the opportunity to evaluate him. The minimal cost keeps the outcome from grading harshly.
Kansas City acquired offensive tackle Jim Nicholson from the Los Angeles Rams for a 1975 fifth-round pick. Nicholson became a long-term Chiefs starter, appearing in 72 games with 62 starts from 1974 through 1979. Los Angeles used the No. 112 selection on defensive tackle Wayne Hammond, but Hammond never played a regular-season game for the Rams and later logged only five NFL games with Denver. Kansas City received the far stronger realized return.
Detroit sent Jim Teal to Los Angeles for the Rams’ 1975 ninth-round pick, then used that acquired pick in the August trade for Leroy Mitchell. Mitchell was released before playing a regular-season game for Detroit, while Teal never appeared in a Rams regular-season game. With neither return producing NFL value for its new club, both sides receive a D and the verdict is Even Trade.
Washington acquired veteran running back Larry Smith from the Rams in May 1974 for the 1977 fifth-round pick that became No. 130 Donnie Hickman. Smith offered Washington immediate experienced depth, while the later selection did not develop into a return strong enough to outweigh that practical roster value. Washington holds a modest hindsight edge.
Chicago sent guard Greg Horton to the Rams in April 1974 for 1975 third- and tenth-round draft choices. The third-round selection, No. 73, was later moved separately to San Diego for Cid Edwards; the sixth-round pick associated with Jim Harrison came from a different Bears-Chargers trade. Horton eventually became a useful Rams reserve, but Chicago's two-pick return gives the Bears a narrow C+ to C win.
Los Angeles Rams received 1974 ninth round pick (#213-Don Hutt / Donnie Hutt) from Washington Commanders, sending Joe Sweet the other way. Neither side ultimately received meaningful direct NFL value from the exchange: Sweet's 1974 NFL appearances came with New England, while Hutt pursued the WFL rather than becoming a Rams contributor. That makes a low-impact even verdict the most defensible hindsight result. That outcome supports a C- grade for Los Angeles Rams, and the overall verdict is Even Trade.
Minnesota traded veteran cornerback Charlie Stukes to the Rams on August 28, 1973, for a 1974 fifth-round selection, No. 128. Minnesota did not ultimately use the pick on Monroe Eley; the Vikings traded that choice to Philadelphia days later for linebacker Ron Porter. Stukes immediately became a two-year starter in Los Angeles.
The Rams acquired Greg Slough from Minnesota on August 3, 1973 for a 1974 draft choice, only nine days after Minnesota had obtained him from Oakland. Historical player and transaction sources support the two distinct moves. Because the exact 1974 selection is not identified and Slough produced no major Rams career, neither side has a strong enough realized return for a decisive verdict.
Los Angeles acquired linebacker Jeff Lyman from New England for a draft choice whose exact selection has not been identified. Lyman had only three prior NFL regular-season appearances and did not make the Rams' 1973 regular-season roster. Because New England's downstream draft return also remains unresolved, the Rams did not receive enough documented value to create a clear advantage.
Detroit Lions received Brian Goodman from Los Angeles Rams in the 1973-07-21 trade. Detroit acquired Brian Goodman, but Pro Football Archives shows the Lions released him before the 1973 regular season, so Detroit realized no regular-season contribution. Los Angeles Rams's return was 1974 ninth round pick (#221-Derek Williams). Los Angeles received the 1974 ninth-round pick and used it on Derek Williams, making the draft choice the Rams' realized return. Those realized outcomes, rather than the labels on the assets alone, drive the hindsight grade.
Los Angeles Rams received Bob Crum; Houston Oilers/Tennessee Titans received 1974 sixth-round pick No. 154, Booker Brown. Crum never appeared in a regular-season game for Los Angeles. Brown never appeared for Houston; his NFL games came later with San Diego. The realized outcomes support Even Trade, with Los Angeles Rams graded C and Houston Oilers/Tennessee Titans graded C.
Los Angeles sent quarterback Roman Gabriel to Philadelphia for a five-asset package: Harold Jackson, Tony Baker, the 1974 first-round pick used on John Cappelletti, the 1975 first-round pick used on Dennis Harrah, and the 1975 third-round pick used on Dan Nugent. Gabriel immediately revived the Eagles offense, but Jackson and especially Harrah gave the Rams far more sustained value over the following decade.
Baltimore sent veteran defensive back Jerry Logan to Los Angeles for the draft choice later identified as the 1974 tenth-round selection used on Glenn Ellis. Logan retired in July 1973 without appearing in a regular-season game for the Rams. Even a modest late-round asset therefore gave the Colts the only realized value and the clear advantage.
The Raiders acquired linebacker Jim Purnell from the Rams, but Purnell's NFL playing career had already ended after the 1972 season. He therefore provided no regular-season return for the Raiders after the transaction. Because the incoming veteran did not create usable football value and the Rams' draft return was similarly unproductive, a conservative C- grade fits the Raiders' side of this minor exchange.
The Rams moved veteran defensive back Clancy Williams to Washington and received the late 1973 selection used on Kurt Matter. Matter did not appear in an NFL regular-season game, while Williams' eight-season Rams career had effectively reached its end before the trade produced value for Washington. Both clubs exchanged assets with recognizable résumé or draft value, but neither side gained a meaningful post-trade football return.
The Los Angeles Rams acquired Bob Stein plus the 1973 second- and fourth-round picks used on Jim Youngblood and Eddie McMillan, sending Willie Ellison and Pete Beathard to Kansas City. Youngblood became a long-term Rams linebacker and Pro Bowl-level contributor, giving Los Angeles lasting value well beyond Kansas City's veteran return and making the Rams the clear winner.
The Rams acquired quarterback John Hadl from the Chargers for Coy Bacon and Bob Thomas. Hadl immediately led Los Angeles to a 12-2 record in 1973 and earned NFC Player of the Year honors, then became the centerpiece of a massive five-pick trade with Green Bay in 1974.
Detroit Lions received 1973 third round pick (#75-Levi Johnson), while Los Angeles Rams received Al Clark. Detroit sent Al Clark to Los Angeles for the Rams' 1973 third-round choice, later No. 75 Levi Johnson. The supported history provides enough detail to judge the exchange without overstating uncertain downstream information. Detroit Lions earns a B grade, and the overall verdict is Detroit Lions Win.
Arizona/St. Louis Cardinals received Jeff Staggs, 1973 third round pick (#63-Terry Metcalf) in the 1972-08-12 exchange with Los Angeles Rams. St. Louis acquired linebacker Jeff Staggs and the 1973 third-round choice that became Terry Metcalf for quarterback Pete Beathard. The documented result supports a A- grade for Arizona/St. Louis Cardinals. The overall verdict is Arizona/St. Louis Cardinals Win, based on realized value rather than hypothetical upside.
Chicago Bears received Rich Buzin / Dick Buzin from Los Angeles Rams in the 1972-08-08 trade. Chicago acquired Rich Buzin, who appeared in two games for the Bears in 1972 without a start. Los Angeles Rams's return was 1973 seventh round pick (#161-Steve Brown (b)). Los Angeles received the 1973 seventh-round pick at No. 161. Those realized outcomes, rather than the labels on the assets alone, drive the hindsight grade.
Baltimore sent defensive back Tom Curtis to Los Angeles and received a 1973 seventh-round choice whose eventual selection is not securely identified. The Colts still converted a reserve player into usable future draft capital, while Curtis never delivered regular-season value for the Rams. The modest value of the pick keeps Baltimore's advantage limited, but it was more than Los Angeles ultimately received from the player.
Los Angeles sent Otis Sistrunk and a fourth-round pick to Oakland for a third-round pick in 1972. The Rams gained better draft position, but Sistrunk became a cornerstone of the Raiders' defensive front, making a Pro Bowl and helping Oakland win Super Bowl XI. That long, high-level career value overwhelms the modest pick upgrade Los Angeles received.
Baltimore sent offensive lineman John Williams to the Los Angeles Rams before the 1972 season and received the Rams’ 1974 first-round draft choice. Baltimore eventually used that pick at No. 24 on wide receiver Roger Carr, creating a long-term offensive return from a veteran lineman who had played out his option.
On 1972-07-19, Los Angeles Rams received draft pick (possibly 1973 #129-Cody Jones), while Washington received Alvin Haymond / Al Haymond. The hindsight verdict is Washington Redskins Win, with Los Angeles Rams graded C+ and Washington graded B. The evaluation follows the documented consideration and the football value that can be traced from it, while treating conditional terms and later draft outcomes as context rather than as assets exchanged directly on trade day.
Chicago's own trade history places the Jim Kirby-for-Buddy Lee swap on July 7, 1972. Kirby went from Los Angeles to Chicago, while Lee went from Chicago to the Rams. Neither player produced an NFL regular-season appearance for the receiving club, leaving the transaction as an even trade at D-minus for both sides.
Green Bay acquired linebacker Doug Woodlief from Los Angeles on a conditional basis in June 1972. The condition mattered: Green Bay owed an undisclosed draft choice only if Woodlief made the 1972 roster. He was waived on July 22, and coach Dan Devine said the Packers therefore owed the Rams nothing. Neither side ultimately realized regular-season value from the transaction, supporting an even C/C result.
Los Angeles acquired defensive end Fred Dryer from New England in 1972 for Rick Cash and the 1973 first-round selection used on Sam Cunningham. Dryer spent a decade with the Rams and became an elite defender. New England also received major value, with Cash starting immediately and Cunningham developing into one of the Patriots' foundational running backs.
San Diego acquired Deacon Jones, Greg Wojcik and Lee White from the Rams on January 29, 1972 for Jeff Staggs plus second- and third-round draft capital that became Jim Bertelsen, Cullen Bryant and Tim Stokes. Jones immediately made the Pro Bowl for the Chargers, but the Rams collected multiple useful pieces with longer combined value. The broader package gives Los Angeles the historical edge.
On 1971-10-20, Arizona Cardinals received undisclosed draft pick (selection not identified), while Los Angeles Rams received Don Parish. The hindsight verdict is Los Angeles/Cleveland/St. Louis Rams Win, with Arizona Cardinals graded C+ and Los Angeles Rams graded B. The evaluation follows the documented consideration and the football value that can be traced from it, while treating conditional terms and later draft outcomes as context rather than as assets exchanged directly on trade day.
Detroit received Dick Evey and got 11 games, eight starts and an estimated one sack from him in 1971. Los Angeles used the 1972 No. 120 pick on guard Bob Childs, who never appeared in an NFL regular-season game. Evey's Lions stint lasted only one season, so the return stops at B-, but a genuine starting role clearly outweighs a draft selection that produced no league games.
On 1971-09-01, Los Angeles Rams received Joe Carollo, while Philadelphia Eagles received draft pick (possibly 1972 #99-Joe Federspiel). The hindsight verdict is Los Angeles/Cleveland/St. Louis Rams Win, with Los Angeles Rams graded B and Philadelphia Eagles graded C+. The evaluation follows the documented consideration and the football value that can be traced from it, while treating conditional terms and later draft outcomes as context rather than as assets exchanged directly on trade day.
Green Bay acquired veteran linebacker Tommy Crutcher from Los Angeles for a future fourth-round pick. Crutcher returned to the Packers for a second stint and provided useful short-term depth, but the Rams turned a player nearing the end of his career into a defined draft asset. Los Angeles later used the 1973 No. 99 selection on Terry Nelson, preserving longer-term roster value from the deal.
Los Angeles Rams received Rich Buzin / Dick Buzin from New York Giants in the 1971-08-12 trade. Los Angeles acquired Rich Buzin, who appeared in five games for the Rams in 1971 without a start. New York Giants's return was Joe Taffoni. New York acquired Joe Taffoni. Those realized outcomes, rather than the labels on the assets alone, drive the hindsight grade.
Los Angeles sent veteran safety Richie Petitbon to Washington in August 1971. The return was a 1973 sixth-round selection plus a 1974 first-round pick, with the premium choice revised from a 1973 second-rounder after Washington discovered that selection had already been traded. The first-rounder later became part of another Rams transaction.
Los Angeles acquired Joe Taffoni and Cleveland’s 1972 third-round pick, which became Lawrence McCutcheon, for Mitch Johnson and a 1972 fifth-rounder that became Greg Kucera. Taffoni was quickly moved again, but McCutcheon became a five-time Pro Bowl running back and one of the defining Rams skill players of the decade. Cleveland’s return never approached that level, creating a clear Rams victory.
On 1971-07-31, Cincinnati Bengals received 1972 undisclosed pick (selection not identified), while Los Angeles Rams received Mike Wilson. The hindsight verdict is Los Angeles/Cleveland/St. Louis Rams Win, with Cincinnati Bengals graded C+ and Los Angeles Rams graded B. The evaluation follows the documented consideration and the football value that can be traced from it, while treating conditional terms and later draft outcomes as context rather than as assets exchanged directly on trade day.
Los Angeles sent center George Burman to Washington in July 1971 for two draft choices, one of which is traceable as the 1974 fourth-round pick that became No. 99 and Norris Weese. Burman appeared only briefly for Washington, while the Rams at least recovered multiple future assets. Because one selection remains unidentified and Weese did not become a Rams regular, Los Angeles earns only a narrow edge.
Oakland/Los Angeles/Las Vegas Raiders received Hall of Fame tackle Bob Brown, who played 34 games with 32 starts in Oakland, plus the two Rams-origin 1972 choices strongly traced to John Vella and Ray Jamieson; Vella added 84 Raiders games and 48 starts and started on the Super Bowl XI champion. The return earns a A-, versus B- for Los Angeles/Cleveland/St. Louis Rams, with a hindsight verdict of Oakland/Los Angeles/Las Vegas Raiders Win. Concrete team-specific production and downstream results drive the grade.
Los Angeles acquired wide receiver Lance Rentzel from Dallas on May 19, 1971 for tight end Billy Truax and wide receiver Wendell Tucker. Rentzel started all 28 Rams games in 1971 and 1972, catching 65 passes for 899 yards and six touchdowns over those two seasons, then returned as a reserve in 1974. Truax gave Dallas useful tight-end service, while Tucker never appeared in a Cowboys regular-season game.
On 1971-03-31, Los Angeles Rams received 1973 fifth-round draft pick, while Washington Commanders received Tommy Mason. The hindsight verdict is Washington Redskins Win, with Los Angeles Rams graded C+ and Washington Commanders graded B. The evaluation credits only the consideration that can be traced confidently and keeps uncertain pick details out of the final judgment.
Green Bay Packers and Los Angeles Rams completed this trade on 1971-01-28. Williams lasted only one Rams season, but he supplied meaningful rushing, receiving and return production. Green Bay's acquired selections did not produce comparable Packers value, with Virgil Robinson's NFL service coming elsewhere. The post-trade results provide the clearest measure of what each club gained from the exchange. The historical return supports a Los Angeles Rams Win verdict, with Green Bay Packers graded C and Los Angeles Rams graded B.
George Allen’s first major Washington move sent Marlin McKeever and seven premium-to-midround selections to Los Angeles for six veteran players and a fifth-round pick. Washington immediately gained experienced starters and became a playoff team, but the Rams converted the package into Isiah Robertson, Dave Elmendorf and additional draft assets. The long-term star power favors Los Angeles, though Washington’s immediate return was genuinely valuable.
On 1970-10-10, Los Angeles Rams received 1971 seventeenth round pick (#418-Randy Vataha), while New Orleans Saints received Elijah Pitts. The final verdict is New Orleans Saints Win, with Los Angeles Rams graded C+ and New Orleans Saints graded B. The hindsight view follows the documented consideration and later traceable value without treating every named pick outcome as if it had been directly exchanged on trade day. Both sides have identifiable consideration, allowing the hindsight grade to focus on what those assets actually became.
Minnesota acquired defensive back Ted Provost from the Los Angeles Rams in September 1970, and the Rams received Minnesota's 1972 fifth-round selection, No. 128, tied in the draft record to Greg Kucera. Provost appeared in only seven games for the Vikings without a start, while the pick produced no clear long-term Rams advantage. The modest returns fit an even result.
Chicago moved veteran defensive lineman Dick Evey and a future fourth-round choice to Los Angeles and received Jim Seymour and Ron Smith. Evey's Rams stay lasted only one season, while the Bears gained two younger players and multiple chances to create roster value. Los Angeles later used the fourth-round selection on John Saunders, giving the Rams a useful additional asset despite Evey's short tenure.
Arizona Cardinals received Mike LaHood, while Los Angeles Rams received John Wilbur. Mike LaHood also provided modest value after arriving in St. Louis. The Cardinals did not receive a return strong enough to create clear separation from the Rams. In hindsight, that direct return supports a C+ grade for Arizona Cardinals. The grade reflects realized football value from this exchange rather than reputation alone.
The Los Angeles Rams acquired veteran linebacker Tommy Joe Crutcher from the New York Giants on May 30, 1970 for New York's 1971 fifth-round pick and 1972 third-round pick. Crutcher spent the 1970 season on Los Angeles' taxi/inactive list and never produced regular-season value for the Rams. The Giants retained two future assets, making New York the stronger side in hindsight.
Denver Broncos received Izzy Lang. The locked Wave 209 research supports the D grade after comparing the direct production and draft value attributable to this transaction. The evaluation excludes unrelated later moves and unsupported assumptions. Against Los Angeles Rams, that documented return supports the final verdict of Even Trade.
Los Angeles acquired defensive back Kermit Alexander and the 1970 second-round pick used on Donnie Williams from San Francisco for kicker Bruce Gossett. Alexander started all 28 Rams games over two seasons and intercepted seven passes, giving Los Angeles strong short-term value. Williams contributed little, while Gossett became San Francisco’s kicker for five seasons and made 99 field goals. The 49ers’ longer, playoff-era return earns a narrow win.
New Orleans wanted veteran interior-line help and acquired center Frank Marchlewski from Los Angeles for a future draft choice. Transaction records identify the move on January 20, 1970; the exact Rams selection is not securely attributable, so the return stays described as a future draft choice. New Orleans gets the stronger grade because it acquired a usable veteran and then converted him into a fourth-round asset. Los Angeles recovered future capital, but the Saints extracted more identifiable football value from the player.
Los Angeles Rams
Atlanta received Dave Cahill, who immediately appeared in 11 games and started eight at defensive tackle for the Falcons. Even though his stay was not long, that regular-season role gave Atlanta a clear and measurable contribution from the exchange. That outcome supports a B grade within the Atlanta Falcons Win verdict. The grade reflects realized football value rather than the size of the original package.
Los Angeles sent defensive lineman Dave Cahill to Atlanta on September 10, 1969 for the Falcons' 1970 seventh-round pick, No. 168. The Rams used it on Bill Nelson, who spent five seasons with Los Angeles and appeared in 47 games.
On 1969-09-09, Los Angeles Rams received Mitch Johnson, while Washington received draft pick. The hindsight verdict is Los Angeles/Cleveland/St. Louis Rams Win, with Los Angeles Rams graded B and Washington graded C+. The evaluation follows the documented consideration and the football value that can be traced from it, while keeping unverified downstream pick identities or conditional outcomes out of the final judgment.
Atlanta Falcons received 1970 6th round pick (152nd overall, Randy Marshall) in the 1969-09-02 exchange with Los Angeles Rams. Randy Marshall's NFL stay was brief, so the draft return did not become a lasting Atlanta advantage. The direct package, rather than later movement of any acquired asset, is the basis for the hindsight judgment. Against what Atlanta Falcons surrendered, the result supports Even Trade.
Chicago Bears received the 1971 seventh-round pick, No. 176, from Los Angeles in the 1969-08-12 trade and used it on Dennis Ferris. Los Angeles acquired Dave McDaniels as the player return; his Rams tenure was limited and did not develop into a long-term role. Ferris did not establish a meaningful NFL regular-season career. Those outcomes support Los Angeles B, Chicago C+, and the existing Rams-win verdict.
Los Angeles acquired return specialist Alvin Haymond from Philadelphia for Billy Guy Anderson, Jimmy Raye and a future third-round choice. Haymond supplied productive returning in Los Angeles, while Philadelphia later used the pick in acquiring linebacker Ron Porter. Both clubs received useful football value. An even grade recognizes the Rams' specialist contribution and the Eagles' documented onward compensation.
Minnesota acquired kicking specialist Don Martin from the Los Angeles Rams on August 4, 1969 for a conditional draft choice. Contemporary reporting establishes that structure, while the condition, draft round, selection and whether the choice ultimately conveyed are not identified. With no securely documented long-term Minnesota impact or Rams draft payoff, the exchange is best treated as a modest preseason gamble.
New York acquired veteran quarterback Milt Plum from the Los Angeles Rams on July 20, 1969 for a future draft choice. Contemporary reporting described the return only as a future pick; the later draft ledger connects the deal to New York's 1971 fifth-round slot, No. 122, but that selection also carries conflicting later transaction chains. Plum appeared in one Giants game, completing 3 of 9 passes for 37 yards, and was released October 3.
Los Angeles Rams received 1971 fifth-round pick No. 122; New York Giants received Milt Plum. Los Angeles later moved the acquired pick again rather than using No. 122 on George Wells. Plum appeared in one Giants game, completing 3 of 9 passes for 37 yards. The realized outcomes support Even Trade, with Los Angeles Rams graded C and New York Giants graded C.
Chicago's official trade history dates the transaction to July 12, 1969: the Bears sent punter Jon Kilgore to Los Angeles for $1. Kilgore did not return to the Rams in regular-season play; his 1969 NFL work came with San Francisco. With Chicago receiving only token cash and Los Angeles receiving no on-field production, both sides grade D-minus.
Los Angeles acquired Jim Purnell and two draft choices from Philadelphia in a multi-asset veteran exchange, although the surviving record does not consistently identify the selections. Purnell went on to provide the Rams with a sustained role after the trade. Philadelphia received Tony Guillory and one draft choice, but Guillory's contribution did not match Purnell's, leaving the Eagles more dependent on an unidentified asset for value.
Philadelphia traded running back Izzy Lang to Los Angeles in July 1969 for Harold Jackson and rookie defensive end John Zook. Jackson immediately led the NFL with 1,116 receiving yards, later led the league again in receiving yards and receptions, and became one of the era’s top deep threats. Lang carried the ball once for the Rams and retired after the season. Philadelphia won this exchange overwhelmingly.
Los Angeles acquired quarterback Karl Sweetan from New Orleans for the 1971 fourth-round pick later used on Don Morrison. Sweetan served as a reserve for two Rams seasons, appearing in 11 games and throwing only 26 regular-season passes. Morrison became a long-term Saints starting tackle, starting 92 games for New Orleans from 1971 through 1977. The Rams received modest backup value while surrendering the asset that produced a foundational lineman.
Chicago sent veteran safety Richie Petitbon to Los Angeles for cornerback Lee Calland, a 1970 fourth-round pick used on Ross Brupbacher, and a 1971 third-round pick used on Bob Newton. Petitbon remained a capable starter for two Rams seasons, but Chicago recovered a player plus two meaningful selections for a 31-year-old defender. That return gives the Bears the stronger overall value.
Los Angeles/Cleveland/St. Louis Rams received Bob Brown and Jim Nettles; Brown was a first-team All-Pro and Pro Bowler in both 1969 and 1970 for Los Angeles, while Nettles supplied 55 games, 35 starts and 16 interceptions from 1969-72. The team earns a A-, compared with C+ for Philadelphia Eagles, and the hindsight verdict is Los Angeles/Cleveland/St. Louis Rams Win. That judgment reflects the concrete team-specific production, role and tenure created by the assets in this deal.
Atlanta sent Dick Absher and a 1969 sixth-round pick to the Rams for the fourth-round selection used on tight end Jim Mitchell. Mitchell became one of the best early players in Falcons history, starting all 155 games of his 11-year Atlanta career, catching 305 passes for 4,358 yards and 28 touchdowns, and earning two Pro Bowl selections. The return dwarfed what Los Angeles received, making this an overwhelming Falcons win.
On 1968-09-19, Atlanta Falcons received draft pick (possibly 1969 #67-Jon Sandstron), while Los Angeles Rams received Frank Marchlewski. The hindsight verdict is Los Angeles/Cleveland/St. Louis Rams Win, with Atlanta Falcons graded C+ and Los Angeles Rams graded B. The evaluation follows the documented consideration and the football value that can be traced from it, while treating conditional terms and later draft outcomes as context rather than as assets exchanged directly on trade day.
Los Angeles Rams received Kent Kramer from New Orleans Saints in the 1968-08-22 trade. Los Angeles acquired Kent Kramer, but the Saints' official history says he suffered a knee injury and missed the entire 1968 season before later being. New Orleans Saints's return was 1970 fifth round pick (#126-Steve Ramsey). New Orleans received the 1970 fifth-round pick used on quarterback Steve Ramsey. Those realized outcomes, rather than the labels on the assets alone, drive the hindsight grade.
Dallas Cowboys received 1969 fifth round pick (#125-Chuck Kyle) in the exchange with Los Angeles Rams. Dallas received the 1969 fifth-round choice that became Chuck Kyle, but the draft return did not approach Bacon's sustained impact in Los Angeles. The supported hindsight grade is D+. That mark reflects realized value tied directly to this transaction, with the overall result recorded as Los Angeles Rams Win.
Los Angeles traded the contract rights to Heisman Trophy quarterback Gary Beban to Washington for a 1969 first-round pick. The Rams used the No. 10 selection on receiver Jim Seymour. Seymour had only a modest three-year NFL career, but Beban appeared in just five games and never became Washington's quarterback of the future, leaving Los Angeles with the superior realized value.
Atlanta acquired Bucky Pope but never received a regular-season appearance from him; after a later Vikings trade was voided, the Falcons released him before he resurfaced with Green Bay. Los Angeles received 14 games and one start from Jim Wilson, while Bob Sanders was released without appearing for the Rams. Wilson's one season is the only realized value, giving the Rams a modest C-to-D win.
Los Angeles sent quarterback Bill Munson and a 1969 third-round pick to Detroit for Milt Plum, Pat Studstill, Tommy Watkins and Detroit's 1969 first-round choice. The Rams used No. 8 on Larry Smith, who produced more than 3,000 scrimmage yards in Los Angeles, while Studstill added useful punting value. Munson gave Detroit several seasons of quarterback play, making this a real exchange rather than a rout.
Los Angeles acquired defensive back and returner Ron Smith from Atlanta in January 1968. George Allen later explained that the Rams used the second-round pick obtained from Green Bay in the Ben Wilson trade to get Smith. Atlanta's draft history identifies that pick as No. 53, John Wright. Smith started 25 games over two Rams seasons and scored on a 94-yard kickoff return; Wright played five scoreless games for Atlanta. The Rams retain the B/C+ win.
Atlanta acquired Hall of Fame receiver Tommy McDonald from Los Angeles in September 1967 for a future fourth-round choice. McDonald immediately started 10 games and caught 33 passes for 436 yards and four touchdowns for the Falcons. The surrendered choice ultimately became No. 81 in the 1969 draft, and the Rams later moved that pick back to Atlanta for additional assets, giving Los Angeles a slight value edge.
Los Angeles acquired six-time Pro Bowl defensive tackle Roger Brown from Detroit for three premium draft choices: a 1968 first-rounder used on Earl McCullouch, a 1968 third-rounder used on Hall of Fame tight end Charlie Sanders, and a 1969 second-rounder used on Jim Yarbrough. Brown immediately strengthened an elite Rams defense, but Detroit converted the package into three long-term starters, giving the Lions the greater enduring return.
Los Angeles traded defensive back George Youngblood to Cleveland for the Browns' 1968 third-round pick, No. 74 overall. The Rams quickly bundled that selection with a first-rounder and a 1969 second-rounder to acquire star defensive tackle Roger Brown from Detroit; Detroit later used No. 74 on Hall of Fame tight end Charlie Sanders. Youngblood spent only part of one season in Cleveland.
Atlanta Falcons received Tom Moore from Los Angeles Rams, giving up Bernie Casey. Atlanta acquired Tom Moore in a straight player swap. The Falcons received a usable veteran, but the transaction does not show a dramatic long-term swing, so C+ is a fair middle-ground grade. That return supports a C+ grade for Atlanta Falcons. The final verdict is Even Trade.
Green Bay acquired fullback Ben Wilson from Los Angeles for a 1968 second-round pick after Jim Taylor’s departure. Wilson immediately rushed for 453 yards and two touchdowns in 1967, added 88 receiving yards and helped the Packers win another championship, including 65 rushing yards in Super Bowl II. The Rams received a valuable No. 53 pick, but Green Bay’s immediate title-season payoff gives the Packers the edge.
Los Angeles acquired veteran defensive back Willie Daniel from Pittsburgh for a draft choice whose exact identity is disputed in historical records, most likely a 1968 third-rounder. Daniel immediately became a useful Rams defender, appearing in 38 regular-season games across three seasons and intercepting three passes. Pittsburgh gained draft capital, but the uncertain downstream identity limits the return that can be credited confidently.
Minnesota sent Tommy Mason, Hal Bedsole and its 1967 second-round pick to Los Angeles for Marlin McKeever and the Rams' first-round choice. The Vikings used No. 15 on Alan Page, who became an NFL MVP, Hall of Famer and centerpiece of the Purple People Eaters. McKeever also started for Minnesota before helping bring Paul Krause in another trade, creating extraordinary compounded value.
Los Angeles Rams received veteran defensive lineman Earl Leggett from Chicago Bears for 1967 fourth round pick (#95-Tom Greenlee) and 1967 eighth round pick (#200-Jerry Griffin). Leggett played 10 games for Los Angeles in 1966 and supplied four Approximate Value. Neither Greenlee nor Griffin appeared in an NFL regular-season game. The Rams received the only realized NFL contribution, supporting a Los Angeles Rams Win.
Los Angeles Rams received Bob Nichols, while Pittsburgh Steelers received Roger Pillath. Bob Nichols played for Los Angeles after the exchange, giving the Rams the more useful realized return from the deal. In hindsight, that direct return supports a C+ grade for Los Angeles Rams. The grade reflects realized football value from this exchange rather than reputation alone.
Los Angeles Rams received Gerald Circo / Jerald Circo from Philadelphia Eagles in the 1966-07-26 trade. Los Angeles acquired Jerald Circo; his Rams tenure did not produce a durable regular-season contribution. Philadelphia Eagles's return was 1967 seventh round pick (#174-John Williams). Philadelphia received the seventh-round pick used on John Williams at No. 174. Those realized outcomes, rather than the labels on the assets alone, drive the hindsight grade.
On 1966-07-08, Los Angeles Rams received Myron Pottios, while Pittsburgh Steelers received draft pick (selection not identified). The hindsight verdict is Los Angeles/Cleveland/St. Louis Rams Win, with Los Angeles Rams graded B and Pittsburgh Steelers graded C+. The evaluation follows the documented consideration and the football value that can be traced from it, while keeping unverified downstream pick identities or conditional outcomes out of the final judgment.
Los Angeles acquired the negotiating rights to Mike Dennis from Atlanta in 1966 for a sixth-round choice. The Rams' own 1969 media guide confirms that price, and Falcons draft records identify the transferred selection as 1967 No. 148, Gene Snipes. Dennis later produced 136 rushing yards and 53 receiving yards for the 1968 Rams. Snipes did not become an Atlanta regular-season contributor, leaving Los Angeles with the stronger realized return and the existing B/C+ verdict.
Los Angeles acquired veteran cornerback Irv Cross from Philadelphia for defensive back Aaron Martin and running back Willie Brown. Cross started every game for the Rams across three seasons and became a dependable piece of a rising defense. Martin supplied Philadelphia with some useful secondary snaps, while Brown made only a limited impact. The Rams received the best individual player and the more sustained value, giving Los Angeles the edge.
Green Bay sent veteran running back Tom Moore to Los Angeles for quarterback Ron Smith, the rights to tackle Dick Arndt, and a 1967 second-round pick used on Dave Dunaway. Moore immediately caught 60 passes for the Rams in 1966 but lasted only one season there. Green Bay's three incoming assets also failed to become long-term Packers contributors. Both clubs received short-lived value without a lasting cornerstone, making the exchange essentially even.
Los Angeles received five seasons of elite linebacker play from Maxie Baughan: 65 games, 63 starts, 11 interceptions and four straight Pro Bowls from 1966 through 1969. Philadelphia's return was much thinner. Frank Molden started six games, Fred Brown appeared in 26 after missing 1966, and probable pick No. 68 Harry Wilson played only six games. The Rams' A-to-C win is supported by the actual production.
On 1966-03-15, Cleveland Browns received draft pick (selection not identified), while Los Angeles Rams received David Ray. The hindsight verdict is Los Angeles/St. Louis Rams Win, with Cleveland Browns graded C+ and Los Angeles Rams graded B. The evaluation follows the documented consideration and the football value that can be traced from it, while keeping unverified downstream pick identities or conditional outcomes out of the final judgment.
Los Angeles received Frank Molden after sending Ken Henson and Bob Hohn to Pittsburgh. Molden's Rams tenure was brief and did not match the multi-season contribution Hohn later supplied for the Steelers. The C+ grade recognizes that Los Angeles did receive an NFL player in the exchange, but the realized return was clearly lighter than Pittsburgh's combined veteran value.
Dallas received three seasons of dual-purpose kicking and punting from Danny Villanueva, including a 107-point 1966 season. Los Angeles did even better with Tommy McDonald: 67 catches, 1,036 yards, nine touchdowns and a Pro Bowl selection in 1965, followed by 714 yards in 1966. Both sides gained real starters, but McDonald's peak gives the Rams the edge, A-minus to B-plus.
Los Angeles Rams received Joe Krupa in the exchange with Pittsburgh Steelers. Joe Krupa had been a regular Pittsburgh starter before the move, but his Rams tenure did not produce a durable return. Los Angeles added an experienced defensive tackle, yet the acquisition did not develop into a meaningful long-term win. In hindsight, that direct outcome supports a C grade for Los Angeles Rams. The judgment focuses on what this transaction itself produced rather than unrelated later moves.
Los Angeles acquired Ed Holler, but he never appeared in a Rams regular-season game. The player-for-player return therefore produced no on-field value for the Rams. The grade remains tied to documented value for the acquiring club, without assigning credit for unresolved or hypothetical downstream consideration.
Green Bay acquired receiver Carroll Dale from Los Angeles in a straight-up exchange for linebacker Dan Currie. Dale became a premier Packers deep threat, earned three Pro Bowl selections and contributed to three consecutive championship teams. Currie brought an accomplished Green Bay career to Los Angeles but remained with the Rams for only two seasons, giving the Packers substantially more lasting value.
Baltimore's side of the recorded exchange is a 1966 fifth-round selection, while Los Angeles received Tom Gilburg. The surviving public draft trail does not securely identify the downstream player attached to Baltimore's pick, so the return should remain stated at the draft-asset level. That limitation prevents assigning unsupported production to the Colts and keeps the comparison confined to the consideration that can be documented.
Minnesota sent the negotiating rights to first-round receiver Jack Snow to the Rams in a deal that brought veteran receiver Red Phillips and defensive lineman Gary Larsen to the Vikings. Transaction histories split the chronology between Snow’s rights move and the completed player package. All three became significant NFL contributors, with Snow giving Los Angeles the longest single-team payoff.
Los Angeles acquired tight end Bill Truax from Cleveland for the 1965 second-round selection that became No. 22 Gerry Bussell. Truax developed into a long-term Rams starter, playing 94 games with 68 starts across seven seasons and catching 16 touchdown passes from 1965 through 1970. Bussell never played for Cleveland, spending his only pro season with Denver. The sustained Rams production makes this a decisive Los Angeles win.
The Rams traded veteran halfback Jon Arnett to Chicago for Roger Davis, Frank Budka, Joe Wendryhoski and a 1965 fifth-round pick used on Frank Marchlewski. Arnett gave the Bears three seasons but never regained his earlier Pro Bowl form. Los Angeles received several usable pieces and greater aggregate roster value, making the Rams the winner without turning the deal into a landslide.
Dallas acquired Jim Boeke and received meaningful offensive-line value: seven starts in 1964, a regular left-tackle role in 1965 and 10 starts in 1966. The Rams received the bigger long-term prize in Les Josephson, who spent a decade with Los Angeles and made the 1967 Pro Bowl after an 800-yard rushing, 400-yard receiving season. Los Angeles wins, A to B.
Green Bay sent center Ken Iman to Los Angeles in early February 1964 without receiving new consideration that day. Packers historical research says the transfer fulfilled the future value Los Angeles expected after allowing quarterback Zeke Bratkowski to reach Green Bay on waivers in October 1963, although Rams president Dan Reeves declined to confirm that linkage. Iman later started 140 consecutive regular-season games for the Rams.
The Los Angeles Rams traded linebacker Bill Jobko to Minnesota in 1963 for a draft choice. Historical team material supports the exchange, while the exact pick is not identified. Jobko gave Minnesota three full seasons from 1963 through 1965 before joining expansion Atlanta in 1966, providing a concrete multi-year return that outweighs an untraceable draft asset on the Rams' side.
Detroit acquired Hall of Fame back Ollie Matson from Los Angeles for veteran guard Harley Sewell on August 20, 1963. The famous names outweigh the actual return: Matson appeared in eight Lions games, rushing 13 times for 20 yards and catching two passes for 20 more, while Sewell played only two Rams games. Detroit gets a narrow edge on slightly greater usable service.
The Los Angeles Rams dealt Tom Wilson to Minnesota in July 1963 and received the Vikings' 1964 tenth-round pick, No. 131, which became Ron Smith. The Rams recovered a draft choice for a veteran, but Wilson gave Minnesota 282 rushing yards and four touchdowns in eight games. That immediate production was more meaningful than the late-round return the Rams realized.
Los Angeles acquired Rosey Grier from New York on July 8, 1963 for John LoVetere and a high draft choice. Grier remained with the Rams through 1967 and became part of their celebrated defensive front. The exact downstream identity of the Giants' pick remains uncertain, so the verdict does not credit Los Angeles or New York with an unverified selection outcome. Grier's documented impact gives the Rams the win.
Chicago sent veteran end John Adams to the Los Angeles Rams on May 1, 1963 for the 1964 second-round selection that became No. 21 Bill Martin. Adams started 10 of 13 games for Los Angeles in 1963 and caught nine passes for 93 yards before his NFL career ended. Martin played 28 games for Chicago across 1964 and 1965 and totaled 92 receiving yards, producing similarly modest short-term returns.
Los Angeles received Philadelphia's 1963 fifth-round pick, No. 60, and used it on tackle Roland Benson. Benson never appeared in an NFL regular-season game. Philadelphia received guard Roy Hord, who played 11 games and started six for the Eagles in 1962 before leaving for the Jets. The modest but real starting value makes Philadelphia the clear winner in hindsight.
Chicago acquired veteran fullback Joe Marconi from the Rams for the 10th pick in the 1963 draft. Marconi immediately helped the Bears win the 1963 NFL championship, producing 781 yards from scrimmage, four touchdowns, and a Pro Bowl season. Los Angeles used the first-rounder on Rufus Guthrie, who never played an NFL regular-season game, creating a decisive realized-value advantage for Chicago.
Los Angeles sent linebacker Bob Long and defensive tackle John Meyers to Dallas on September 7, 1962 for a 1964 third-round choice. The Rams later used that selection at No. 32 on Willie Brown. Dallas earns the edge because Meyers supplied starting value and Long added depth for the cost of one third-round choice. Los Angeles retained reasonable draft value, so the trade was not lopsided, but the Cowboys realized more usable football value.
On 1962-09-04, Los Angeles Rams received 1964 high draft pick, while Washington Commanders received Bob Pellegrini. The hindsight verdict is Washington Commanders Win, with Los Angeles Rams graded C and Washington Commanders graded B. The evaluation follows the documented consideration and traceable football value, while leaving unresolved downstream pick identities out of the judgment.
Los Angeles Rams received Mike Henry in the exchange with Pittsburgh Steelers. Mike Henry did not provide the Rams with a comparable stretch of football value after the trade. His playing return was short, leaving Los Angeles with limited direct benefit from the exchange. In hindsight, that direct outcome supports a D+ grade for Los Angeles Rams. The judgment focuses on what this transaction itself produced rather than unrelated later moves.
Los Angeles sent George Strugar to Pittsburgh and received the 1963 fifth-round choice that became No. 67 Don Chuy. Chuy gave the Rams six seasons, 74 games, and 20 starts, turning a mid-round selection into durable line value. Strugar appeared in only one game for Pittsburgh before moving on, so the Rams realized a much stronger and longer-lasting return.
The legacy record lists Los Angeles Rams receiving Larry Stephens, 1963 third round pick (#37-John Baker (b) / Johnny Baker), 1963 sixth round pick (#79-Terry Monaghan) and Cleveland Browns receiving Frank Ryan, Tom Wilson, but part of that date, identity, or downstream attribution remains disputed in the surviving historical record. Cleveland acquired quarterback Frank Ryan and halfback Tom Wilson from Los Angeles for defensive tackle Larry Stephens plus 1963 third- and sixth-round selections. Sources differ by roughly a day on the 1962 execution date, but the package is
Los Angeles acquired Lou Cordileone from San Francisco in April 1962, but his Rams stay produced only two regular-season games and no starts before he moved to Pittsburgh. The 49ers received Elbert Kimbrough, who became a five-season secondary regular in San Francisco, starting 64 games from 1962 through 1966 and intercepting eight passes. The realized value separated quickly and stayed heavily in San Francisco's favor.
Los Angeles received Bob Pellegrini in the March 1962 swap, but he never appeared in a regular-season game for the Rams and was traded to Washington before the season. Philadelphia received John Baker, who started all seven games he played for the Eagles that year and recorded four sacks. Neither side landed a long-term answer, but Philadelphia extracted the only direct on-field return from the exchanged players.
Pittsburgh acquired tackle Charlie Bradshaw from Los Angeles on September 12, 1961, for the Steelers’ 1962 third-round pick, No. 33 overall. Bradshaw became a six-year Pittsburgh fixture, appearing in 82 games with 80 starts and earning Pro Bowl recognition in 1963 and 1964. The Rams used the pick on tackle John Cornett, who did not produce comparable NFL value. Pittsburgh turned a third-rounder into a long-term starting tackle.
Los Angeles acquired rookie guard Bruce Tarbox from the New York Giants on August 31, 1961 for a future draft choice. Tarbox appeared in seven regular-season games for the Rams that year, recording three Approximate Value before his NFL career ended. Historical transaction research links the Giants return to the 1962 fifth-round pick at No. 59, used on Curtis Miranda, who never played an NFL regular-season game. The Rams received the better realized franchise value, though the exact pick linkage remains less than fully confirmed.
Los Angeles received the No. 2 pick in the 1962 draft from New York and used it on quarterback Roman Gabriel; the Giants received star receiver Del Shofner and the No. 13 pick, used on Jerry Hillebrand. Gabriel became an MVP and long-term Rams quarterback, while Shofner earned three straight first-team All-Pro honors in New York and helped the Giants reach three consecutive NFL title games.
The Rams traded veteran defensive back Will Sherman to expansion Minnesota on June 27, 1961 for a future draft choice. Contemporary reports establish the exchange even though the exact pick is not identified. Sherman, already an experienced Ram, appeared in eight games for the inaugural Vikings and contributed limited receiving work, giving Minnesota short-term veteran help at a still-unknown draft cost.
Los Angeles/St. Louis Rams received Frank Varrichione, while Pittsburgh Steelers received Lou Michaels. Pittsburgh received Lou Michaels, who became a productive defensive end and kicker for three seasons, while the Rams received tackle Frank Varrichione, who started 56 games for Los Angeles from 1961 through 1965 and made the 1962 Pro Bowl. Both clubs received substantial veteran value. That outcome supports a B+ grade for Los Angeles/St. Louis Rams, a B+ for Pittsburgh Steelers, and a Even Trade verdict.
Los Angeles traded Don Burroughs to Philadelphia for the 1962 fifth-round pick that became No. 68 Ben Wilson. Wilson gave the Rams 41 games, 24 starts and nine touchdowns over three seasons. Burroughs delivered the larger return: 64 games, 62 starts and 29 interceptions for Philadelphia, beginning with nine interceptions on the 1960 NFL championship team. Both sides gained value, but the Eagles gained substantially more.
Dallas Cowboys received John Houser in the 1960-09-06 exchange with Los Angeles Rams. John Houser's Dallas stay was limited and did not create a strong long-term advantage for the Cowboys. The direct package, rather than later movement of any acquired asset, is the basis for the hindsight judgment. Against what Dallas Cowboys surrendered, the result supports Even Trade.
Los Angeles Rams received 1961 fourth round pick (#45-Charlie Cowan) in the 1960-09-06 exchange, while Washington Redskins received Roy Wilkins. Los Angeles received Washington’s 1961 fourth-round choice, No. 45, and used it on Charlie Cowan. Cowan became the strongest long-term NFL asset connected to the exchange, giving the Rams the clearer enduring return.
Cleveland Browns received Gene Selawski; Los Angeles Rams received 1961 third-round pick No. 41, Ron Miller. Selawski played all 12 games for Cleveland in 1960. Miller played six Rams games with one start in 1962, throwing for 250 yards. The realized outcomes support Cleveland Browns Win, with Cleveland Browns graded C+ and Los Angeles Rams graded C.
Los Angeles moved rookie Ken Young to Philadelphia and recovered an undisclosed draft pick. The available evidence does not identify the round, year or eventual selection, so the Rams' downstream value cannot be quantified. Still, they converted a player who lasted only a week with the Eagles into a future asset.
Cleveland acquired Leon Clarke from Los Angeles on August 17, 1960. Clarke gave the Browns 33 games over three seasons, catching 32 passes for 501 yards and six touchdowns. The Rams received Bob Long, who played 22 games across 1960 and 1961 and intercepted two passes. Both sides received usable veterans, but Clarke supplied the stronger sustained return.
Dallas acquired Hugh Pitts' NFL rights from the Rams for guard Al Barry in July 1960, but the exchange produced no regular-season value for either receiving club. Pitts had already signed with the AFL's Houston Oilers and never played for Dallas. Barry likewise never appeared in a Rams regular-season game after the deal. With both acquired assets yielding zero games, the trade grades D-minus on both sides and finishes even.
Detroit acquired defensive end Sam Williams from Los Angeles for Jim David in March 1960 and received six seasons of meaningful defensive-line value. Williams played 79 games for the Lions, started 54, and is credited with 26 sacks, including 24.5 from 1962 through 1965. David did not return to the field for Los Angeles; he was brought in to coach the secondary. Detroit clearly won the player-value side of the deal.
Cleveland acquired center John Morrow from the Los Angeles Rams on March 14, 1960 for center Art Hunter. Morrow became Cleveland's starting center for seven seasons, started 90 games for the Browns, earned two Pro Bowl selections and finished with 60 team Approximate Value, giving Cleveland the stronger long-term return.
Dallas Cowboys received Jim Harris / Jimmy Harris (a). Dallas received Jimmy Harris, who started nine games for the Cowboys in 1961 and intercepted two passes. That gave Dallas immediate, documented defensive production from the player it acquired. The Rams' fifth-round selection did not generate comparable NFL value, making the Cowboys the clear winner. That stronger outcome supports a B grade for Dallas Cowboys.
Los Angeles reacquired defensive back Carl Karilivacz from the New York Giants in October 1959 for a future draft choice. Karilivacz appeared in 15 games with four starts across the 1959 and 1960 Rams seasons. Historical draft records show the Giants later used a fourth-round choice from Los Angeles at No. 46 on Ben Davidson, but Davidson never played a regular-season game for New York. The Rams therefore received the stronger franchise return, with medium confidence on the exact pick linkage.
Los Angeles acquired Hall of Fame halfback Ollie Matson from the Chicago Cardinals for seven named players, a 1960 second-round pick that became Mike McGee, and a training-camp player obligation later converted into the 1960 fourth-round pick used on Silas Woods. Matson produced immediately for the Rams, but the Cardinals received one of the largest multi-asset packages of the era.
Pittsburgh acquired Billy Ray Smith Sr. and rookie receiver Jimmy Orr immediately before the 1958 season. Orr exploded for 910 receiving yards and seven touchdowns as a rookie and spent three productive years with the Steelers. Los Angeles appears to have received the 1959 third-round choice used on Tom Franckhauser, with a possible additional 1960 third-rounder tied to Pervis Atkins.
Los Angeles Rams received 1959 fourth round pick (#45-Bob Reifsnyder) in the 1958-07-16 exchange with Pittsburgh Steelers. Pittsburgh acquired veteran fullback Paul 'Tank' Younger from the Rams on July 16, 1958 for the 1959 fourth-round choice later used on Bob Reifsnyder. Contemporary reporting described an undisclosed draft choice, while later draft provenance resolves the exact selection. The documented result supports a B- grade for Los Angeles Rams. The overall verdict is Los Angeles/St. Louis Rams Win, based on realized value rather than hypothetical upside.
Pittsburgh’s conditional sixth-rounder conveyed because Bob Dougherty made the Steelers roster, and Los Angeles used No. 66 in 1960 on Don Ellersick. Dougherty gave Pittsburgh one season with 12 games and seven starts at linebacker. Ellersick gave the Rams one season too, but he played 12 games, started nine and intercepted two passes. The margins are narrow, yet the verified outcomes favor Los Angeles, B to B-, rather than Pittsburgh.
Philadelphia acquired quarterback Norm Van Brocklin from the Rams for Buck Lansford, Jimmy Harris and the 1959 first-round selection that became No. 2 overall Dick Bass. Van Brocklin led the Eagles to the 1960 NFL championship and won league MVP in his final season. Los Angeles also received major long-term production from Bass, a three-time Pro Bowler who spent a decade with the Rams.
Chicago acquired Jesse Whittenton and Bob Carey from the Rams in February 1958 for tackle Kline Gilbert, but Gilbert retired and the compensation was changed to Chicago's 1959 fourth-round pick, No. 44 John Tracey. Whittenton never became a Bears contributor and Carey barely played, while Tracey provided little direct Rams value before another trade. The realized exchange grades evenly at C/C.
Pittsburgh acquired Sid Fournet and Dean Derby from the Rams in September 1957 for future draft consideration. The exact Rams pick chain is not fully settled, but Derby's Pittsburgh value is clear: he became an All-Pro and Pro Bowl defensive back and intercepted 21 passes across his NFL career. The Steelers captured the strongest realized player value and earn an A- to the Rams' C.
Los Angeles sent quarterback Rudy Bukich to Washington in September 1957 and received two premium draft choices: Washington's 1958 first-rounder and 1959 second-rounder. Those selections became Lou Michaels at No. 4 overall and Buddy Humphrey at No. 16. Bukich gave Washington only a short stay, while Los Angeles converted one expendable quarterback into two significant shots at young talent.
Cleveland and Los Angeles agreed in September 1957 to exchange linebacker Roger Zatkoff and quarterback Rudy Bukich, but Zatkoff refused to report to the Rams and the clubs cancelled the transaction. Because neither player actually changed teams under the agreement, there is no realized football return to grade as a win or loss. The proper result is an even, no-completion outcome.
Los Angeles Rams received undisclosed draft pick (possibly 1958 #44-Frank Woidzik) (possibly 1958 #55-Frank Ryan) from Pittsburgh Steelers, while Pittsburgh Steelers received 2 players in the 1957-09-04 deal. In hindsight, Los Angeles Rams's return did not separate far enough from the other side to justify a winner. The grades are C for Los Angeles Rams and C for Pittsburgh Steelers, producing a final verdict of Even Trade. The rating stays proportional to the stakes and to the value the acquired pieces ultimately delivered.
San Francisco acquired tackle Bob Cross from the Rams for its 1957 third-round pick, which Los Angeles used at No. 27 on George Strugar. Cross gave the 49ers two seasons of useful line play, while Strugar appeared in 57 games with 32 starts for the Rams. Both sides received legitimate value, but Los Angeles obtained the longer-lasting contribution.
Los Angeles Rams received fourth round pick (undisclosed). Los Angeles received a fourth-round draft choice, but the exact selection has not been identified. The Rams therefore acquired real draft capital, yet its downstream player value cannot be measured without inventing a pick identity. The return should stay explicitly unresolved.
Los Angeles turned the Giants' 1957 fourth-rounder into Lamar Lundy, who spent his entire 13-season NFL career with the Rams and appeared in 152 games. He contributed 35 catches for 584 yards and six touchdowns early in his career before becoming a long-term defensive lineman and later starter. New York got 30 games and one interception from Ed Hughes, while Tom McCormick never played a Giants regular-season game. The Rams win decisively, A to C+.
Green Bay Packers received Jim Carmichael on a conditional preseason acquisition; Green Bay returned him to the Rams on August 8, 1956, before he made the regular-season roster. The return earns a D, versus D for Los Angeles/Cleveland/St. Louis Rams, with a hindsight verdict of Even Trade. Concrete team-specific production and downstream results drive the grade.
Los Angeles sent Andy Robustelli to the Giants in July 1956 for New York's 1957 first-round pick, later used on Del Shofner. Robustelli immediately helped New York win the 1956 NFL championship and became a Hall of Fame defensive leader. Los Angeles still received major value because Shofner developed into an elite receiver during his Rams tenure.
Detroit acquired linebacker Bob Long from Los Angeles in October 1955 for a 1956 second-round pick. Long became a multi-year Lions starter and started nine games on the 1957 NFL championship team. The Rams used No. 14 on USC end Leon Clarke, who made the Pro Bowl as a rookie and gave Los Angeles four productive seasons. Both clubs won value, with the Rams’ return slightly stronger.
The Rams sent Harland Svare and Stan West to the Giants in August 1955 for New York's 1956 first-round pick, which Los Angeles used on Joe Marconi at No. 6. Marconi became a productive multi-year back. Svare became a starting linebacker on the Giants' 1956 championship team and remained part of a celebrated defense.
Green Bay sent veteran end Stretch Elliott and a 1956 draft choice to Los Angeles for tackle Tom Dahms in August 1955. Dahms immediately solved a major offensive-line shortage and started all 12 games for the Packers that season. The Rams turned the pick into A.D. Williams and received Elliott, but Green Bay got the most dependable immediate value.
Los Angeles obtained the 1955 second-round choice used on tackle Sid Fournet by sending defensive back Herb Rich to New York. Fournet gave the Rams two seasons and useful line depth, but Rich became an immediate Giants playmaker, producing five interceptions in 1954 and six more in 1955. New York clearly captured the stronger near-term and sustained return.
Pittsburgh acquired linebacker Stan Sheriff and defensive back Dewey McConnell from the Rams on September 10, 1954 for a future draft choice. Both newcomers played that season, with Sheriff starting seven games and McConnell four. Surviving draft-trade records only tentatively connect the Rams’ return to 1955 pick No. 18, so that selection should not be credited as a confirmed downstream asset.
Los Angeles Rams received 1955 draft pick (selection not identified). Los Angeles received a 1955 draft pick for George 'Spud' Murphy, but the exact selection has not been identified. The Rams therefore acquired a real draft asset whose downstream player outcome remains unresolved. That uncertainty must stay explicit rather than being converted into a guessed pick.
Baltimore acquired quarterback Gary Kerkorian from Los Angeles for the 1955 tenth-round pick that became Jesse Arnelle. Kerkorian started 10 games for the 1954 Colts and threw for 1,515 yards, giving the young franchise meaningful quarterback service. Arnelle was selected by the Rams but did not produce comparable NFL value, making Baltimore the clear beneficiary.
Chicago Bears received Larry Brink from Los Angeles Rams in the 1954-05-08 trade. Los Angeles acquired Bob Cross as a player-for-player return, giving the Rams a direct roster asset rather than a contingent or future consideration. Los Angeles Rams's return was Bob Cross / Bobby Cross. Chicago acquired Larry Brink, an established defensive lineman whose Bears tenure provided the more durable veteran contribution of the swap. Those realized outcomes, rather than the labels on the assets alone, drive the hindsight grade.
Los Angeles acquired Hall Haynes and received immediate starting secondary value. Haynes started 11 games for the Rams in 1954 and recorded an interception, giving the club a clear one-season payoff from the trade. His return was not long-term star value, but it was substantial enough to anchor a modest Rams advantage.
The 1954 three-team deal delivered Richard "Night Train" Lane, Len Teeuws and Bob Morgan to the Cardinals. The Rams received Don Doll from Washington plus Volney Peters, while Washington received Don Paul from the Cardinals. Lane immediately remained one of football's premier defensive backs, making his move to the Cardinals the defining value swing in a complicated three-club exchange.
Arizona captured the strongest long-term value in the January 30, 1954 three-team trade. The Cardinals received Night Train Lane, Len Teeuws and Bob Morgan; Lane became a six-year secondary star for the franchise and Teeuws became a four-year starter. Washington also created useful value by later turning Don Paul into Johnny Carson and Dale Atkeson, while the Rams' direct return proved much shorter-lived.
Baltimore's historical transaction ledger records James Kincaid going to the Los Angeles Rams in 1954 for tackle Jim Winkler. The date is approximate in the surviving transaction database, and the chronology is unusually opaque because Winkler already appears on Baltimore's 1953 roster while draft records list Los Angeles selecting Kincaid 29th overall in 1954. The named exchange is documented, but the public record does not explain the underlying rights timing well enough to claim a conventional player-for-player outcome.
Pittsburgh acquired defensive tackle Tom Palmer from the Rams on September 20, 1953 for a conditional 1955 eighth-round pick. The condition depended on Palmer remaining on the Steelers roster through the sixth league game. Palmer played 11 games with five starts in 1953 and returned in 1954, so Pittsburgh received useful depth and starting snaps. The Steelers earn a narrow C+ to C win.
Los Angeles acquired Washington's 1955 second-round choice and used No. 15 on Ron Waller, while Washington received Sam Baker. Waller became an immediate All-NFL-caliber rookie and played four seasons for the Rams. Baker developed into a valuable Washington kicker, punter and back, including Pro Bowl recognition, giving both clubs substantial return from the exchange.
Los Angeles Rams received Gary Kerkorian. Los Angeles received Gary Kerkorian. The available post-trade research does not establish a substantial Rams regular-season contribution from him after the exchange. His broader football history should not be imported into this specific return unless it occurred for Los Angeles after the trade.
Los Angeles turned three fringe players into the 1954 fourth-round pick used on Lester McClelland, but McClelland never played an NFL game. Pittsburgh got the only realized production: Nick Bolkovac appeared in 17 Steelers games and scored 57 points, while Bill Hegarty played one Pittsburgh game and George Porter never reached an NFL regular-season game. That gives Pittsburgh the stronger hindsight return.
The new Baltimore Colts acquired guard Bill Lange and halfback Tommy Kalmanir from the Los Angeles Rams in a transaction recorded as occurring around January 1, 1953. Contemporary transaction databases list the Rams' return only as undisclosed terms, so the compensation cannot be reconstructed responsibly. Lange started all 12 games for Baltimore in 1953, while Kalmanir appeared in nine games with three starts and produced 84 yards from scrimmage plus a receiving touchdown.
Arizona received rookies Jerrell Price and Gordon Polofsky for tackle John Hock. Polofsky provided useful service for the Cardinals, giving the club a real return rather than an empty exchange, but the package did not match Hock's longer and more distinguished Rams career. The B- grade credits Arizona's useful compensation while recognizing the stronger value that ultimately landed in Los Angeles.
Los Angeles received the rights to Nick Bolkovac and a 1953 sixth-round pick that became Paul Miller. Those assets gave the Rams future options, but the documented football return is less substantial than Washington's immediate benefit from Joe Moss. The Rams' side therefore grades as a modest return rather than a clear long-term success.
Dallas transferred the rights to Les Richter to Los Angeles on June 12, 1952, for 11 Rams players in what the Pro Football Hall of Fame describes as the biggest NFL trade to that point. Richter served two years in the Army before joining the Rams, then made eight consecutive Pro Bowls and never missed a game. Most of Dallas' 11-player haul provided little lasting value.
The March 1952 completion of the Rams-Eagles exchange left Los Angeles with the rights to Jack "Moose" Myers and Philadelphia's 1953 first-round choice, later used on Donn Moomaw. Philadelphia received Bobby Thomason and the later-named Jack Zilly. Thomason became the transaction's most productive NFL player, giving the Eagles the stronger realized return despite surrendering a premium draft choice.
The January 1952 Rams-Eagles agreement sent Jack "Moose" Myers and Philadelphia's 1953 first-round pick toward Los Angeles, while Bobby Thomason moved to Philadelphia and Jack Zilly was later identified as the remaining player. The Eagles ultimately received the best performer in Thomason, whose productive run at quarterback outweighed the Rams' first-round selection and Myers in realized NFL value.
Green Bay closed the Bobby Thomason experiment on December 27, 1951, returning the quarterback to Los Angeles instead of surrendering its 1952 first- and second-round selections under the conditional agreement. Thomason had helped the Packers for one season, but the club ultimately kept both premium choices. That combination of useful short-term quarterback play and preserved draft capital gives Green Bay the better outcome.
Green Bay acquired rookie center-linebacker Jerry Grenier from Los Angeles in August 1951. Contemporary Packers reporting says no player or cash was given to the Rams, but Grenier never appeared on Green Bay's 1951 regular-season roster. The Packers therefore obtained a training-camp look without measurable regular-season value, making the acquisition essentially a no-cost evaluation rather than a productive roster addition.
Green Bay acquired Bobby Thomason from Los Angeles in July 1951 on a conditional look-see arrangement rather than for two picks that actually changed hands. Contemporary reports said compensation would be settled only if Thomason stayed; he was later returned to the Rams, and proposed first- and second-round demands were never completed. Neither club realized lasting value.
Arizona Cardinals received Gerry Cowhig; Bob Shaw; Tom Keane in the 1950-06-02 exchange with Los Angeles Rams. Bob Shaw became a useful Cardinals player and the three-player return had real depth, but it did not quite equal the peak value Los Angeles received. The direct return and the football value it produced drive the hindsight judgment. Against the assets Arizona Cardinals surrendered, the result supports Los Angeles Rams Win and a B- grade for Arizona Cardinals.
Los Angeles acquired Glenn Davis's rights and immediately received the best outcome in the deal. Davis started all 12 games in 1950, produced 1,008 scrimmage yards and seven rushing/receiving touchdowns, and earned a Pro Bowl selection. Across two Rams seasons he totaled 1,298 scrimmage yards and nine offensive touchdowns, giving Los Angeles substantial immediate production from the rights package.
Arizona acquired quarterback Jim Hardy from Los Angeles in September 1949, giving up its 1950 first-round choice, which became No. 9 overall Ralph Pasquariello, plus cash. Hardy became the Cardinals' regular quarterback and earned a 1950 Pro Bowl selection, while Pasquariello played only nine games for the Rams before later joining the Cardinals. That realized return gives Arizona the stronger result.
Green Bay Packers received Clyde Johnson, who was waived before Green Bay's 1948 regular-season opener and therefore played no regular-season games for the Packers. The return earns a D, versus A- for Los Angeles/Cleveland/St. Louis Rams, with a hindsight verdict of Los Angeles Rams Win. Concrete team-specific production and downstream results drive the grade.
Los Angeles and Chicago swapped Dante Magnani and Mike Holovak in January 1947. Magnani gave the Rams 20 games, four starts, 322 rushing yards and 85 receiving yards over two seasons. Holovak gave the Bears 23 games, eight starts, 509 rushing yards, 149 receiving yards and three rushing touchdowns. Both players contributed, but Chicago received the larger and more productive two-year return.
The Rams received Steve Bagarus in exchange for Tom Farmer and Ralph Ruthstrom. Bagarus appeared in only two games for Los Angeles before later returning to Washington, limiting the Rams' realized value from the transaction. That outcome supports a C+ grade for Los Angeles Rams within the final Washington Redskins Win verdict.
Chicago sent Tom Harmon's rights to Los Angeles on July 20, 1946 for Dante Magnani and Fred Davis; contemporary reporting does not support cash as part of the trade package. Magnani immediately started seven games and helped the 1946 champion Bears, while Davis became a multi-year Chicago tackle and Pro Bowl selection. That two-player return gives Chicago the stronger hindsight result.
The Rams received Bob Hoffman, Jim Hardy, and Walter Ziemba. Hoffman contributed immediately, and the three-player return gave Los Angeles more usable value than Washington obtained from Jack Jacobs, making the Rams the stronger side in hindsight. The B+ grade reflects that realized football value and the complete supported package, while the overall verdict is Los Angeles/St. Louis Rams Win.
Cleveland Rams received Eberle Schultz in the 1945-08-01 exchange with Pittsburgh Steelers. Eberle Schultz became an important Cleveland Rams lineman during the 1945 championship season and continued to provide meaningful value. The direct package is the basis for the hindsight grade, with later movement of an acquired selection treated separately. That supports Los Angeles Rams Win.
The Rams received Hugh McCullough. His 1940 playing record is associated with the Cardinals rather than a meaningful Rams tenure, so Los Angeles did not receive a comparable on-field return to the season Condit delivered for Pittsburgh. The D+ grade reflects that realized football value and the complete supported package, while the overall verdict is Pittsburgh Steelers Win.
Green Bay acquired Dick Zoll from the Rams in a 1939 transaction involving Packers draftee John Yerby. Zoll appeared in only one Packers game with no start and was released in September. Yerby has no traceable NFL regular-season career, leaving both teams with almost no realized value from the exchange. The safest hindsight judgment remains a low-impact even trade.
Brooklyn Dodgers received Vic Markov; Los Angeles Rams received Gene Moore. Markov never appeared in another NFL game after the February 1939 exchange. Moore's NFL career also ended before he could appear for the Rams. The realized outcomes support Even Trade, with Brooklyn Dodgers graded C and Los Angeles Rams graded C.
Cleveland acquired tackle Jack Hadden from the New York Giants in February 1939 for fullback Carl Littlefield. Contemporary reporting and later player histories support the one-for-one exchange. Hadden's NFL playing record ended after his 1938 Giants season, while Littlefield did not ultimately play for New York in 1939. The limited realized value on both sides supports Cleveland's C grade.
Cleveland received Ed Wade and Vannie Albanese from Chicago in the August 1938 exchange for Lou Gordon. Albanese's NFL career ended in 1938, and the available evidence does not show a durable Cleveland payoff from the incoming package. The limited post-trade value supports the Rams' existing C+ grade in an exchange with little separation.
Green Bay received Ookie Miller, who played eleven games and started seven for the Packers in 1938. That immediate role gave Green Bay meaningful value from the transaction and comfortably exceeded the limited return produced by Lou Gordon after the exchange. The B+ grade reflects that realized football value and the complete supported package, while the overall verdict is Green Bay Packers Win.
The Rams received Johnny Gilden, but he did not produce a comparable playing return for the club. That absence of meaningful realized value left Los Angeles behind Pittsburgh's multi-season contribution from Maras. That outcome supports a D+ grade within the Pittsburgh Steelers Win verdict. The grade reflects realized football value rather than the size of the original package.