Miami Dolphins
Trade grades, verdicts, asset movement, and historical context for Miami Dolphins franchise trades.
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Miami Dolphins
Miami acquired quarterback Kyle McCord from Green Bay on August 30, 2026 for a 2028 sixth-round pick. McCord had just finished a four-touchdown preseason finale and gives the Dolphins a developmental backup after moving Quinn Ewers a day earlier. Green Bay converts quarterback depth into future capital, while Miami fills a real roster need at a modest price, leaving the current grades level.
Jacksonville acquired quarterback Quinn Ewers from Miami on August 29, 2026 for a sixth-round selection in the 2028 NFL Draft, pending a physical. Ewers had started three games as a rookie and gives the Jaguars inexpensive quarterback depth. Miami turns a 2025 seventh-round pick into a future sixth, so both clubs gain something, but Jacksonville receives the more immediately useful 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.
Denver acquired Jaylen Waddle and the 111th pick in the 2026 draft from Miami for picks 30, 94 and 130. Waddle arrived as a proven field-stretching receiver with three 1,000-yard seasons in five years, giving the Broncos an immediate veteran weapon while Miami converted an established star into three selections across the first four rounds.
New York Giants acquired 2026 6th round pick (192nd overall, J.C. Davis) from Miami Dolphins for Darren Waller and a conditional 2027 pick (7th round). The overall result favors Miami Dolphins over New York Giants.
Pittsburgh acquired Jalen Ramsey, Jonnu Smith and a 2027 seventh-round pick from Miami for Minkah Fitzpatrick and a 2027 fifth. Ramsey immediately became a full-time defensive starter, while Smith’s Pittsburgh stay lasted only one season. Miami received 14 starts from Fitzpatrick before moving him again in 2026, leaving the still-unresolved 2027 pick swap as an important part of the final value.
Chicago Bears acquired 2025 6th round pick (192nd overall subsequently traded, Bryce Cabeldue) from Miami Dolphins for Chase Claypool and 2025 7th round pick (224th overall subsequently traded, Kyonte Hamilton). Chicago Bears received the stronger recorded football value, matching the Chicago Bears Win verdict.
Miami moved veteran guard Dan Feeney to Chicago for a 2024 sixth-round pick and turned that choice into wide receiver Malik Washington at No. 184. Washington produced 72 catches for 540 yards through his first two seasons while also becoming a significant return specialist. Feeney gave Chicago veteran line depth in 2023, but Miami converted a surplus player into a younger multi-year contributor.
Miami and Dallas swapped former high draft picks at cornerback, with Kelvin Joseph going to the Dolphins and Noah Igbinoghene to the Cowboys. Joseph appeared in four games for Miami before being waived in November 2023. Igbinoghene played five games for Dallas without a start and left after the season. Neither club found a durable solution, so the one-for-one reclamation swap produced no meaningful winner.
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.
Denver traded Bradley Chubb to Miami for a first-round-centered package, cashing out a talented edge rusher before a major contract decision. The Broncos made a disciplined roster-value move by converting Chubb into premium capital instead of carrying the full long-term risk of a major extension. Miami acquired a real pass-rush piece, but injuries and contract cost made the Dolphins’ side riskier. Denver’s return also became part of the broader Sean Payton compensation chain, giving the trade additional franchise-building significance
Miami acquired running back Jeff Wilson from San Francisco at the 2022 deadline for a 2023 fifth-round pick. Wilson immediately gave the Dolphins familiar, dependable backfield depth and stayed with the club beyond the initial season. San Francisco used the pick on cornerback Darrell Luter Jr., adding a younger, cost-controlled defender. Both teams received useful depth, but the 49ers get a narrow edge for converting a surplus veteran into a multi-year draft asset.
Miami sent DeVante Parker and a 2022 fifth-round pick to New England for a 2023 third-rounder. Parker gave the Patriots veteran receiving help but never became a difference-making long-term piece, while Miami extracted premium draft position from a player whose role was shrinking after the Tyreek Hill acquisition. The third-round return carried more lasting roster value than New England received from Parker and the accompanying fifth-round selection.
Miami sent Kansas City five draft picks for Tyreek Hill and received an immediate superstar: 340 catches, 4,733 yards and 27 touchdowns through four Dolphins seasons, including consecutive 1,700-yard campaigns. Kansas City used Hill-related capital in several moves, including the trade up for Trent McDuffie, a two-time champion and All-Pro who later brought four more picks in 2026. Both sides prospered, but Kansas City's continuing asset tree earns a slight edge.
Chicago acquired receiver and return specialist Jakeem Grant from Miami for a 2023 sixth-round pick. The Dolphins later moved the selection in another transaction; the original pick was No. 178. The recorded outcome favors the Even Trade side only to the degree reflected by the grades, with the long-term result driven by what the acquired players and picks actually produced.
Miami acquired offensive lineman Greg Mancz and a 2022 seventh-round pick from Baltimore for a 2022 sixth-round pick. The selections became No. 224, used by Miami on Cameron Goode, and No. 196, used by Baltimore on Tyler Badie. The recorded outcome favors the Even Trade side only to the degree reflected by the grades, with the long-term result driven by what the acquired players and picks actually produced.
Miami acquired tackle Greg Little from Carolina for a 2022 seventh-round pick. The Panthers used the resulting No. 242 selection on cornerback Kalon Barnes. The recorded outcome favors the Panthers side only to the degree reflected by the grades, with the long-term result driven by what the acquired players and picks actually produced.
Pittsburgh acquired pick No. 156 in the 2021 draft and selected defensive lineman Isaiahh Loudermilk. Miami received Pittsburgh's 2022 fourth-round pick, No. 125, and used it on wide receiver Erik Ezukanma. The recorded outcome favors the Miami Dolphins side only to the degree reflected by the grades, with the long-term result driven by what the acquired players and picks actually produced.
Miami sent pick No. 50 and a 2022 third-rounder to the Giants to move up eight spots for Liam Eichenberg at No. 42. Eichenberg became a versatile multi-position starter for the Dolphins, so Miami received real value. New York used No. 50 on edge defender Azeez Ojulari and the future third on cornerback Cordale Flott. Injuries limited Ojulari, but Flott and Ojulari together produced enough defensive contribution to give the Giants the stronger return.
Miami moved from No. 50 to No. 42 in the 2021 second round for tackle Liam Eichenberg, sending New York a 2022 third-round pick as the premium. The Giants selected Azeez Ojulari at No. 50 and later used the future third on Cordale Flott. Eichenberg became a versatile Dolphins starter, while Ojulari supplied pass-rush production and Flott added secondary snaps, giving New York a modest edge through two useful players.
Washington Commanders acquired Ereck Flowers and 2021 7th round pick (258th overall, Dax Milne) from Miami Dolphins for 2021 7th round pick (244th overall, Gerrid Doaks). The overall result favors Washington Football Team over Washington Commanders.
San Francisco sent Miami the No. 12 pick in 2021, first-round picks in 2022 and 2023, and a 2022 third-rounder to move up to No. 3 for Trey Lance. Lance started only four games for the 49ers before they traded him to Dallas for a 2024 fourth. Miami immediately recycled No. 12 in another trade and retained enormous additional capital. The quarterback gamble failed, making the Dolphins the overwhelming winner.
Miami moved from No. 12 to No. 6 and selected Jaylen Waddle, who immediately became a premier offensive weapon. Philadelphia moved down, added a future first-round pick, and retained enough flexibility to move back up for DeVonta Smith before using the broader asset chain in later roster-building moves. Both teams converted the deal into cornerstone value.
Miami Dolphins acquired Isaiah Wilson and 2022 7th round pick (247th overall, Skylar Thompson) from Tennessee Titans for 2021 7th round pick (232nd overall subsequently traded, Phil Hoskins). The overall result favors Houston Oilers/Tennessee Titans over Miami Dolphins.
Miami acquired linebacker Benardrick McKinney and pick No. 231 from Houston for edge defender Shaq Lawson and pick No. 203. Miami used 231 on tackle Larnel Coleman; the sixth-round pick moving to Houston was later involved in another transaction. The recorded outcome favors the Miami Dolphins side only to the degree reflected by the grades, with the long-term result driven by what the acquired players and picks actually produced.
Miami acquired running back DeAndre Washington and a 2021 seventh-round pick from Kansas City for a 2021 sixth-round selection. Washington provided only a brief depth role for the Dolphins, while both draft choices later moved through additional transactions. Kansas City improved its draft position by one round; Miami bought immediate backfield insurance at a small cost. The limited realized impact supports an even result.
Miami traded receiver Isaiah Ford to New England at the 2020 deadline for a conditional 2022 sixth-round pick. Ford caught only a handful of passes for the Patriots and was waived roughly a month later, after which Miami reclaimed him. The Dolphins therefore recovered the player while also retaining the draft compensation that was ultimately conveyed, turning a short-term roster move into a clear value gain.
Miami acquired rookie Lynn Bowden Jr. and a 2021 sixth-round pick from Las Vegas for a 2021 fourth-round selection only months after the Raiders drafted Bowden in the third round. Bowden produced 211 receiving yards and 32 rushing yards for Miami in 2020 but did not become a long-term Dolphin. Las Vegas recouped the more valuable future pick, giving the Raiders a modest win.
Las Vegas acquired linebacker Raekwon McMillan and a 2021 fifth-round pick from Miami for a 2021 fourth-round selection. McMillan played one season for the Raiders, appearing in all 16 games but starting only four before leaving in free agency. Miami improved its draft position by roughly a round while moving a player nearing the end of his rookie deal, giving the Dolphins the better direct return.
Miami Dolphins acquired Adam Shaheen from Chicago Bears for 2021 6th round pick (208th overall subsequently traded, Stone Forsythe). Miami Dolphins received the stronger recorded football value, matching the Miami Dolphins Win verdict.
Miami traded former first-round edge rusher Charles Harris to Atlanta for a 2021 seventh-round pick. Harris produced three sacks in 13 games for the Falcons in 2020 before leaving in free agency, so Atlanta received a modest one-year contribution. Miami recovered late-round draft capital from a player it no longer planned to keep. Neither side created enough lasting value to establish a meaningful advantage.
Miami sent Houston picks No. 136 and No. 141 to move up to No. 111 for guard Solomon Kindley. Kindley started 13 games as a rookie but did not become a long-term Dolphins starter. Houston used No. 141 on John Reid and packaged No. 136 in another trade that moved the Texans to No. 126 for tackle Charlie Heck. That downstream flexibility produced the stronger overall return.
Miami sent the 153rd pick in the 2020 draft to San Francisco for running back Matt Breida. Breida played one Dolphins season, rushing for 254 yards on 59 carries and adding 96 receiving yards. The 49ers used No. 153 on Colton McKivitz, who developed into their starting right tackle and later earned an extension through 2028. That longevity makes San Francisco the clear winner.
Miami moved from No. 173 to No. 164 by sending Philadelphia an additional seventh-round pick at No. 227, then selected edge rusher Curtis Weaver. Weaver was waived before playing a regular-season game for the Dolphins. Philadelphia immediately repackaged picks 173 and 227 to Chicago for three later choices, helping produce multiple roster players. The Eagles therefore extracted more usable value from the exchange.
Seattle Seahawks acquired 2020 7th round pick (251st overall, Stephen Sullivan) from Miami Dolphins for 2021 6th round pick (208th overall subsequently traded, Stone Forsythe). The recorded return stays close enough for an Even Trade verdict.
Green Bay traded picks No. 30 and No. 136 to Miami for No. 26 and selected quarterback Jordan Love. Miami took cornerback Noah Igbinoghene at No. 30 and later moved the fourth-rounder. Love developed behind Aaron Rodgers, became Green Bay's starter in 2023, led a playoff run, and earned a major extension, while Igbinoghene never became a long-term Dolphins starter.
Miami Dolphins
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.
Arizona acquired Kenyan Drake for a conditional 2020 pick that became a fifth-rounder. Drake immediately erupted for 643 rushing yards and eight touchdowns in eight games, then added 955 rushing yards and 10 touchdowns in 2020. Miami later used the acquired pick in the Matt Breida trade, but Drake's two-season production gave Arizona the stronger direct football payoff.
Pittsburgh bought an All-Pro safety at age 22 for a first-round pick and modest extra draft value. Minkah Fitzpatrick immediately changed the Steelers defense, became one of the NFL's premier safeties, and gave Pittsburgh the kind of young blue-chip defender teams almost never acquire in September. Miami received Austin Jackson and smaller pick value, but the return never approached Fitzpatrick's impact. This was a clear Steelers win.
Miami and New Orleans swapped linebackers immediately after the 2019 roster cutdown, with the Dolphins receiving Vince Biegel and the Saints acquiring veteran Kiko Alonso. The deal exchanged a younger reserve for a more established starter as both teams adjusted their linebacker rooms. The Miami Dolphins produced the stronger realized return, supporting the Miami Dolphins Win verdict.
Miami's Laremy Tunsil trade became one of the most valuable asset hauls of the modern era. Houston acquired a legitimate franchise left tackle and protected Deshaun Watson, so the Texans' side was not empty. But Miami extracted a massive premium, gained roster-building flexibility, and turned one elite tackle into the kind of pick package that can reshape a franchise. The verdict remains clear.
Miami acquired interior lineman Evan Boehm and a 2020 seventh-round pick from Indianapolis for a 2020 sixth-round pick just before the 2019 season. The Colts later moved the sixth-round selection, while Miami added an experienced center-guard to a rebuilding offensive line. The Miami Dolphins produced the stronger realized return, supporting the Miami Dolphins Win verdict.
Miami acquired guard Danny Isidora from Minnesota on the eve of final roster cuts for a 2020 seventh-round pick. Minnesota later moved that selection in another deal, while Miami immediately added an experienced interior lineman to a roster undergoing a major rebuild. The Miami Dolphins produced the stronger realized return, supporting the Miami Dolphins Win verdict.
Miami traded down from No. 48 and received No. 62, No. 202 and a 2020 second-rounder. The Dolphins later used No. 62 in the Josh Rosen deal, drafted Isaiah Prince at 202 and selected Raekwon Davis at No. 56 in 2020. Those returns produced some value, but they did not match New Orleans' long-term payoff from Erik McCoy.
Miami traded the 62nd pick in 2019 and a 2020 fifth-rounder to Arizona for quarterback Josh Rosen, betting that the previous year’s No. 10 pick could rebound in a new setting. Rosen started only three games for the Dolphins, threw one touchdown against five interceptions and was waived before the 2020 season. Arizona used No. 62 on Andy Isabella and later recycled the fifth-round asset in the Kenyan Drake trade.
Dallas acquired Robert Quinn for a future sixth-round pick and received 11.5 sacks in one season. Quinn left in free agency after the year, but the Cowboys bought premium pass-rush production at a minimal draft cost. Miami was clearing salary during a rebuild and recovered a late pick, making the Dolphins' side weak rather than valueless.
Miami sent Ryan Tannehill and a 2019 sixth-round pick to Tennessee for a 2019 seventh-rounder and a 2020 fourth-round pick. The Dolphins were resetting their roster and moved on from an expensive veteran quarterback, but Tannehill immediately revived his career with the Titans, winning Comeback Player of the Year and helping Tennessee reach the 2019 AFC Championship Game. Miami’s draft return never approached that level of impact.
Kansas City acquired safety Jordan Lucas from Miami for a 2020 seventh-round pick. Lucas appeared in all 16 games with four starts in 2018, contributed on defense and special teams, and remained with the Chiefs through their 2019 championship season. Miami used the pick on Malcolm Perry, who supplied a small one-season offensive role. Kansas City received the stronger club-specific return.
Detroit traded defensive tackle Akeem Spence to Miami for a 2019 seventh-round pick, eventually No. 229 and P.J. Johnson. The Lions created cap and roster flexibility and recovered a draft asset, but Johnson did not provide comparable Detroit production. Spence immediately started all 16 games for Miami, making the Dolphins' inexpensive veteran acquisition the more valuable side.
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.
Cleveland acquired wide receiver Jarvis Landry from Miami for the No. 123 pick in 2018 and a 2019 seventh-round selection. Cleveland acquired Jarvis Landry and immediately extended him. Landry became a central part of the Browns' offensive rebuild and delivered four seasons of high-volume receiving and leadership. Miami turned the picks into Durham Smythe and Myles Gaskin, both useful contributors, so the Dolphins did receive real value. Landry's sustained impact and role in Cleveland's turnaround still give the Browns the edge.
Philadelphia acquired Jay Ajayi for a fourth-round pick during the 2017 championship season. Ajayi immediately strengthened the backfield, produced important playoff carries, and helped the Eagles win their first Super Bowl. Miami used the pick on Kalen Ballage, whose limited production never matched the direct championship value Philadelphia received.
Miami received picks No. 164 and No. 194 from Philadelphia in the 2017 draft, using them on Isaac Asiata and Vincent Taylor. The Eagles received No. 166 and No. 184, selecting Shelton Gibson and Nathan Gerry. Taylor became a useful rotational defensive tackle for Miami, but Gerry developed into a multi-year linebacker starter in Philadelphia. The Eagles' side produced the slightly stronger combined team-specific return.
Miami moved down fourteen spots in the 2017 seventh round, giving Tampa Bay pick No. 223 for No. 237 and a 2018 seventh-round choice. The Dolphins selected Isaiah Ford, who eventually produced 63 NFL receptions and 681 yards, mostly with Miami. Tampa Bay chose defensive tackle Stevie Tu'ikolovatu, who never appeared in a regular-season game, leaving Miami with the clearly better realized 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.
Miami's Branden Albert transaction with Jacksonville centered on a conditional 2018 pick that was not conveyed. With no draft value ultimately changing hands, the clean public treatment is an Even Trade.
Miami Dolphins acquired a conditional 2017 pick (7th round; did not convey) from New Orleans Saints for Chris McCain. The overall result favors New Orleans Saints over Miami Dolphins.
Miami sent cornerback Jamar Taylor and a late seventh-round pick to Cleveland for a slightly earlier seventh-round selection. The exact pick numbering differs across historical draft references because of forfeited-pick accounting, but the substance is simple: Cleveland acquired Taylor for almost no draft cost. He started 14 games and intercepted three passes in his first Browns season, while Miami gained little from the pick swap.
Miami sent No. 147 to New England for Nos. 196, 204 and 250. The Dolphins used No. 204 on Jordan Lucas and recycled the other choices through later moves, including a separate trade that helped them reach Jakeem Grant. New England immediately packaged No. 147 with No. 243 to Seattle and ultimately obtained the future fourth-round pick used on Deatrich Wise Jr., a long-term Patriots defender. New England's downstream return lasted longer.
Miami paid a 2016 sixth-rounder plus 2017 third- and fourth-round picks to move up for Leonte Carroo at No. 86. Carroo caught only 12 passes for 192 yards in three Dolphins seasons. Minnesota kept trading the acquired capital, turning it into multiple later opportunities instead of one player. The Vikings' return was indirect, but the amount of usable draft value clearly surpassed Miami's result.
Miami sent picks No. 42 and No. 107 to Baltimore to move up four spots for Xavien Howard. Howard became a four-time Pro Bowler, a first-team All-Pro and one of the league's most productive interception creators during his Dolphins tenure. Baltimore drafted Kamalei Correa and Chris Moore with the return; both became NFL contributors, but neither approached Howard's impact. Miami turned a modest trade-up into a franchise-level defensive back.
Philadelphia sent Byron Maxwell, Kiko Alonso, and the No. 13 pick to Miami for the No. 8 pick. Miami selected Laremy Tunsil, who became an elite tackle and later produced another enormous trade return. Philadelphia escaped two unwanted contracts and used No. 8 as the foundation of its move for Carson Wentz. Both franchises achieved major strategic value.
Miami traded cornerback Will Davis to Baltimore for a conditional 2016 seventh-round pick that became No. 227. Davis appeared in only two games before tearing his ACL in October 2015 and played just a handful of games for Baltimore overall. Miami later packaged the acquired pick in a draft-day move that helped the Dolphins select Jakeem Grant. Turning a departing depth corner into usable draft leverage gave Miami the better result.
Miami moved down five spots in the second round and turned the exchange into Jordan Phillips, Bobby McCain and Tony Lippett. Phillips became a productive NFL defensive tackle, while McCain developed into a multi-year Dolphins starter in the secondary. Philadelphia landed Eric Rowe and JaCorey Shepherd, but Rowe lasted only one season with the Eagles before another trade. Miami extracted more useful roster value from the deal.
Miami acquired young receiver Kenny Stills from New Orleans for linebacker Dannell Ellerbe and the 78th pick in the 2015 draft. Stills gave the Dolphins four productive seasons and was a legitimate deep threat. The Saints received useful linebacker play from Ellerbe and used No. 78 on defensive back P.J. Williams, who remained with New Orleans for years. Both sides gained value, but the two-piece Saints return lasted longer.
Miami traded pick No. 50 to the Chargers in 2014 for Nos. 57 and 125. San Diego selected edge rusher Jeremiah Attaochu. Miami used No. 125 on Walt Aikens and immediately flipped No. 57 to San Francisco for Nos. 63 and 171, selecting Jarvis Landry and Jordan Tripp. Landry became a multi-time Pro Bowler in Miami, turning the Dolphins' original move down into a major value win.
San Francisco moved from No. 63 to No. 57 in the 2014 second round, sending Miami picks No. 63 and 171. The 49ers selected running back Carlos Hyde, while the Dolphins selected receiver Jarvis Landry and linebacker Jordan Tripp. Hyde became a productive starter, so San Francisco received real value. Landry, however, became a three-time Pro Bowler in four Miami seasons and the franchise's primary receiver. Miami won a strong trade for both sides.
The Raiders turned Miami’s move up to No. 67 into two useful defenders, most importantly guard Gabe Jackson at No. 81. Jackson became a long-term starter for Oakland and Las Vegas, while fourth-round corner Keith McGill added depth. Miami selected Billy Turner, but he did not establish himself with the Dolphins before finding better footing elsewhere. The realized value strongly favors the Raiders.
Miami dealt Jonathan Martin to San Francisco for a conditional 2015 seventh-round pick, ending a relationship that had become untenable. Martin gave the 49ers one season of depth and nine starts before being waived, while Miami gained a late draft asset that was later moved again. Neither side created meaningful long-term value, but both obtained a practical short-term benefit from a low-cost transaction.
Miami acquired veteran tackle Bryant McKinnie from Baltimore in October 2013 for a conditional 2015 seventh-round pick. The condition was triggered when McKinnie made ten starts for the Dolphins, so Miami did receive needed short-term line help. Baltimore, however, had already replaced him and recovered an asset that later became part of the Haloti Ngata trade package. The Ravens get a narrow edge rather than a landslide.
Miami sent veteran receiver Davone Bess plus two later picks to Cleveland and received picks No. 104 and 164, which became linebacker Jelani Jenkins and running back Mike Gillislee. Jenkins developed into a multi-year Dolphins starter, giving Miami the best direct return. Bess lasted one season in Cleveland, while Armonty Bryant provided some defensive production. The Dolphins’ longer-lasting starting value creates the edge.
Miami moved up for cornerback Will Davis, while Green Bay traded down and used the first pick in its return on David Bakhtiari. Bakhtiari became the Packers’ long-term left tackle, earning multiple All-Pro honors and Pro Bowl recognition while protecting Aaron Rodgers for a decade. Davis never established himself as a Dolphins starter. The Packers also received two additional late-round picks, making the value gap enormous.
Miami jumped from No. 12 to No. 3 for Dion Jordan and surrendered the No. 42 pick in the process. Jordan became one of the most damaging high-pick misses of the era, appearing in only 26 games for Miami before suspensions and injuries ended his Dolphins tenure. Oakland used the return on D.J. Hayden and Menelik Watson. Neither became a star, but both supplied meaningful NFL snaps, making the Raiders the winner without justifying the previous A grade.
Indianapolis acquired cornerback Vontae Davis from Miami for a 2013 second-round pick, with a conditional late-round selection included in the terms but ultimately not conveyed. Davis became a centerpiece of the Colts secondary and earned consecutive Pro Bowl selections in 2014 and 2015. Miami used the second-rounder on Jamar Taylor, who never matched Davis's impact for the Dolphins. Indianapolis received the premium player and clearly won the exchange.
Miami sent picks No. 103 and No. 196 plus a 2013 sixth-rounder to San Francisco for No. 97 and selected Lamar Miller. Miller became the Dolphins' primary runner, topping 1,000 rushing yards in 2014 and finishing four Miami seasons with substantial rushing and receiving production. The 49ers recycled much of the return into additional draft moves, but none of the resulting value matched Miller's sustained offensive impact in Miami.
Tennessee Titans received 2012 5th round pick (145th overall, Taylor Thompson). Miami Dolphins received 2012 5th round pick (155th overall, Josh Kaddu) and 2012 7th round pick (227th overall, Rishard Matthews). The final review favors Miami Dolphins because that return produced stronger long-term football value.
Miami traded pick No. 73 to San Diego for Nos. 78 and 183. The Dolphins selected tight end Michael Egnew and receiver B.J. Cunningham; Egnew caught only seven NFL passes and Cunningham never became a Miami regular-season contributor. The Chargers used No. 73 on safety Brandon Taylor, whose career was derailed by knee injuries after only four defensive appearances. With all three selections producing very little, the trade finishes essentially even.
Chicago acquired Brandon Marshall from Miami for third-round picks in 2012 and 2013, reuniting the receiver with Jay Cutler. Marshall immediately became the Bears' primary passing-game weapon and produced three productive seasons, including a 1,508-yard debut campaign in Chicago. Miami converted the picks into additional draft capital but never received a player of comparable impact. The modest acquisition cost and Marshall's elite production give Chicago a decisive win.
Miami acquired Reggie Bush and a later sixth-round pick from New Orleans for safety Jonathon Amaya and a sixth-round pick. Bush immediately delivered the first 1,000-yard rushing season of his career and produced more than 2,600 yards from scrimmage across two Dolphins seasons. Amaya played only briefly for New Orleans, leaving Miami with a strong return for a very modest package.
Miami moved up five spots in the sixth round and came away with Charles Clay, plus a seventh-round choice used on Frank Kearse. Clay became a versatile four-year starter and receiving weapon for the Dolphins before continuing a long NFL career. Green Bay's return produced Caleb Schlauderaff and Ryan Taylor, but neither matched Clay's sustained offensive value in Miami.
Miami traded picks No. 79, No. 146 and No. 217 to Washington to move up for running back Daniel Thomas at No. 62. Thomas provided several seasons of rotational production but never became a difference-making starter. Washington used its three selections on Leonard Hankerson, DeJon Gomes and Maurice Hurt, receiving a broader collection of useful roster snaps and comparable or better aggregate career value. Hindsight favors Washington's volume.
Miami Dolphins acquired Pat McQuistan from Dallas Cowboys for a conditional 2010 pick (not conveyed). Miami Dolphins received the stronger recorded football value, matching the Miami Dolphins Win verdict.
Miami and Minnesota swapped Benny Sapp for Greg Camarillo just before the 2010 season. Sapp played all 16 games for the Dolphins that year, recording 35 tackles, 10 passes defended and two interceptions. Camarillo gave Minnesota two seasons of receiving depth, catching 29 passes for 361 yards. Neither player became a long-term answer, and the useful short-term returns on both sides support an even grade.
Miami traded guard Justin Smiley to Jacksonville for a conditional 2011 seventh-round pick. Smiley started only five games for the Jaguars before his NFL career ended. The pick became No. 218, and Miami later packaged it in the draft-day move that produced Charles Clay and Frank Kearse. Clay became a four-year offensive starter and receiving threat for the Dolphins, turning a minor veteran sale into substantial downstream value.
Miami moved up seven spots in the fourth round for linebacker A.J. Edds, surrendering picks used on Akwasi Owusu-Ansah and Sam Young. Edds tore his ACL before his rookie season and never established a Dolphins role. Dallas did not find a major contributor either, but Owusu-Ansah and Young at least appeared in regular-season games for the Cowboys. That small amount of realized value gives Dallas the edge.
Miami traded sixth- and seventh-round choices to Washington for pick No. 163 and selected safety Reshad Jones. Jones became a ten-year Dolphin, a two-time Pro Bowler and one of the franchise’s most productive defensive backs of the decade. Washington selected Dennis Morris and Terrence Austin; Morris was traded before the season and Austin had a limited receiving role. The hindsight gap is enormous.
Los Angeles Chargers acquired 2010 1st round pick (12th overall, Ryan Mathews), 2010 4th round pick (110th overall, Darrell Stuckey) and 2010 6th round pick (173rd overall subsequently traded, Anthony Dixon) from Miami Dolphins for Tim Dobbins, 2010 1st round pick (28th overall, Jared Odrick), 2010 2nd round pick (40th overall, Koa Misi) and 2010 4th round pick (126th overall subsequently traded, Akwasi Owusu-Ansah). The overall result favors Los Angeles/San Diego Chargers over Los Angeles Chargers.
Miami traded Ted Ginn to San Francisco for a fifth-round pick and selected cornerback Nolan Carroll. Carroll became a four-year Dolphins contributor, eventually starting regularly in the secondary before continuing a long NFL career. Ginn gave the 49ers speed and valuable return work, including two return touchdowns in 2011, but his offensive role remained limited. Carroll’s larger defensive workload gives Miami the edge.
Miami paid two second-round picks for Brandon Marshall and immediately received a true No. 1 receiver. Marshall topped 1,000 yards in both Dolphins seasons, made the Pro Bowl in 2011, and gave an uneven passing offense a focal point. Denver converted the compensation into draft flexibility and guard/tackle Orlando Franklin, a multi-year starter. Both clubs extracted meaningful value, making the deal much closer to even than the old grade spread suggested.
Miami Dolphins
Miami acquired quarterback Tyler Thigpen from Kansas City in September 2009 for a 2010 fifth-round pick, not the 2009 third-rounder previously attached to this record. The Chiefs used No. 142 on linebacker Cameron Sheffield. Thigpen appeared in six Dolphins games with one start and threw for 518 yards, while Sheffield played 17 Chiefs games with one start. Neither side created lasting separation.
Miami Dolphins acquired an undisclosed 2009 draft pick from Kansas City Chiefs for Andy Alleman and Ikechuku Ndukwe. The available record does not show enough separation to call a clear long-term winner.
The original record mislabeled this as a third-round exchange. Miami actually sent the 237th pick in 2009 to Kansas City for the Chiefs' 2010 seventh-rounder, No. 212. Kansas City selected tight end Jake O'Connell, who appeared in 35 games and made eight starts over four seasons. Miami selected Chris McCoy a year later, but he never appeared in a regular-season NFL game.
Miami moved down five spots in the second round and added a fifth-rounder, selecting Sean Smith at No. 61 and Chris Clemons at No. 165. Smith became a four-year starting corner for the Dolphins, while Clemons developed into a regular starter at safety. Indianapolis got useful defensive tackle Fili Moala at No. 56, but Miami created more total starting value from the two-player return.
Miami acquired defensive tackle Tony McDaniel from Jacksonville for the 232nd pick in the 2009 draft. McDaniel spent four seasons with the Dolphins, appearing in 54 games and providing steady rotational interior-line work with seven sacks. Jacksonville later combined No. 232 with a future second-rounder to move up for Derek Cox, so the pick retained value, but Miami received the stronger direct return.
Miami traded center Samson Satele and pick No. 126 to Oakland for Nos. 108 and 181. The Dolphins drafted Brian Hartline and Andrew Gardner; Hartline became a six-year Miami receiver with consecutive 1,000-yard seasons. Oakland received a multi-year starting center in Satele, who started 47 games across his first Raiders stint, while Slade Norris added little. Both teams created meaningful value in different ways.
Miami Dolphins acquired an undisclosed 2008 draft pick from Carolina Panthers for Josh McCown. The available record does not show enough separation to call a clear long-term winner.
Miami Dolphins acquired an undisclosed 2008 draft pick from Cleveland Browns for Travis Daniels. The available record does not show enough separation to call a clear long-term winner.
Miami Dolphins acquired an undisclosed 2008 draft pick from Washington Commanders for Jason Taylor. The available record does not show enough separation to call a clear long-term winner.
Detroit traded picks No. 66 and No. 176 to Miami for No. 64 and selected running back Kevin Smith. Smith gave the Lions 2,346 rushing yards and 17 rushing touchdowns across five seasons. Miami selected defensive end Kendall Langford, who became a durable four-year starter, plus Jalen Parmele. Both sides received real value, but Langford's sustained starting role gives the Dolphins a narrow edge.
Miami acquired tight end Anthony Fasano and linebacker Akin Ayodele from Dallas for the 100th pick in the 2008 draft. Fasano became a productive five-year Dolphin, while Ayodele started for two seasons. Dallas repeatedly moved the incoming pick and ultimately turned the chain into Tashard Choice and Orlando Scandrick, with Scandrick becoming a nine-year Cowboy. Both organizations extracted substantial, durable value from very different paths.
Philadelphia acquired running back Lorenzo Booker from Miami for pick No. 115. Booker lasted one season with the Eagles, rushing for 53 yards and catching six passes for 11 yards. Miami later packaged No. 115 with pick No. 208 to move up for guard Shawn Murphy, who never appeared in a regular-season game for the Dolphins. Neither side converted the transaction into meaningful lasting value.
Miami acquired nose tackle Jason Ferguson and the 195th pick from Dallas for pick No. 167 and a 2009 sixth-rounder, No. 197. Ferguson became an immediate Dolphins starter and helped anchor the middle of the defense, while Miami used No. 195 on guard Donald Thomas. Dallas selected Erik Walden and Stephen Hodge with the two incoming choices, but neither created meaningful Cowboys value. The complete compensation strengthens Miami's already favorable result.
Miami Dolphins acquired an undisclosed 2007 draft pick from Los Angeles Chargers for Chris Chambers. Miami Dolphins received the stronger recorded football value, matching the Miami Dolphins Win verdict.
Miami Dolphins acquired Trent Green from Kansas City Chiefs for an undisclosed 2007 draft pick. The available record does not show enough separation to call a clear long-term winner.
Miami sent veteran kicker Olindo Mare to New Orleans for the 199th pick in the 2007 draft, which became guard Drew Mormino. Mare lasted only the 2007 season with the Saints and made 10 of 17 field-goal attempts, while Mormino never appeared in a regular-season game for Miami. Neither club turned the exchange into lasting value.
The Wes Welker trade became one of New England's best value wins of the Patriots dynasty era. Miami received a second-round pick and a seventh-round pick, but the Patriots acquired the slot receiver who became Tom Brady's high-volume chain-mover and one of the most productive receivers in football. The value gap became enormous. It remains a priority indexing page because Welker's Patriots breakout is still a major dynasty-era trade story.
Miami acquired quarterback Joey Harrington from Detroit for a conditional 2007 sixth-round pick that escalated to a fifth-rounder after Harrington reached the required playing-time threshold. Miami received functional short-term quarterback play, but Detroit had greater leverage value because it converted an unwanted former starter into a fifth-round choice.
Miami acquired Daunte Culpepper from Minnesota for the 51st pick in the 2006 draft while Culpepper was still recovering from a devastating knee injury. He started only four games for the Dolphins, throwing two touchdowns and three interceptions before the experiment ended. Minnesota used No. 51 on Ryan Cook, who became a versatile offensive lineman and made 40 career starts, giving the Vikings useful value while Miami absorbed one of the era's most costly quarterback misses.
San Diego sent developmental quarterback Cleo Lemon to Miami and received A.J. Feeley plus a 2006 sixth-round pick, later used on Kurt Smith. Feeley never became important to the Chargers and Smith did not produce lasting value, so the return was modest. Still, San Diego extracted two assets from a third-string quarterback while Miami received only eight eventual starts from Lemon.
Miami Dolphins acquired an undisclosed 2005 draft pick from New Orleans Saints for Jesse Chatman. The available record does not show enough separation to call a clear long-term winner.
Miami sent special-teams standout Brendon Ayanbadejo to Chicago for tight end John Owens and a conditional pick that became the 233rd selection in 2006, used on Devin Aromashodu. Owens made little impact and Aromashodu did not become a meaningful Dolphin. Ayanbadejo became an elite Bears special teamer and earned Pro Bowl recognition, giving Chicago a decisive win despite Miami receiving two assets.
Seattle Seahawks acquired Ronald Flemons from Miami Dolphins for Kris Richard. The available record does not show enough separation to call a clear long-term winner.
Kansas City acquired Patrick Surtain and fifth-rounder Boomer Grigsby for picks Nos. 46 and 162, addressing a defense that badly needed established secondary help. Surtain started 49 games across four Chiefs seasons and intercepted eight passes in his first three years there. The cost was meaningful, but Kansas City received the best proven player while Miami's main return, Matt Roth, became a solid rather than transformative starter.
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.
Miami Dolphins acquired an undisclosed 2004 draft pick from Green Bay Packers for Brad Bedell. The available record does not show enough separation to call a clear long-term winner.
Miami traded Pro Bowl pass rusher Adewale Ogunleye to Chicago for receiver Marty Booker and a 2005 third-round pick that became linebacker Channing Crowder. Ogunleye gave the Bears several productive seasons, while Booker supplied Miami with receiving help and Crowder became a long-term defensive starter. Both teams received legitimate contributors, but the extra value from Crowder gives Miami a narrow hindsight advantage.
Miami sent the 153rd pick in the 2004 draft to Baltimore for picks No. 160 and No. 222. The Ravens selected linebacker Roderick Green, who appeared in 25 games for Baltimore and recorded two sacks before continuing his career in San Francisco. Miami selected Tony Bua and Derrick Pope; Pope alone played 55 games for the Dolphins. The extra depth and longer team contribution give Miami a modest win.
Miami moved up 12 spots in the sixth round of the 2004 draft for guard-center Rex Hadnot, sending Atlanta picks No. 186 and No. 219. Hadnot became a four-year Dolphins lineman who appeared in 62 games and started 55. Atlanta selected Etric Pruitt and Quincy Wilson, who combined for only a handful of regular-season appearances with the Falcons. Miami turned a small move up into a durable starter and won decisively.
Green Bay moved up to No. 87 in the 2004 draft for punter B.J. Sander, sending Miami picks No. 102 and No. 153. Sander lasted only one regular season with the Packers. Miami selected Will Poole at No. 102 and later moved No. 153 in the deal that produced Tony Bua and Derrick Pope. Pope became a four-year contributor, giving Miami the clearly stronger aggregate return.
Minnesota Vikings acquired 2004 1st round pick (20th overall, Kenechi Udeze) and 2004 4th round pick (119th overall, Mewelde Moore) from Miami Dolphins for 2004 1st round pick (19th overall, Vernon Carey). The overall result favors Vikings over Minnesota Vikings.
Miami acquired wide receiver David Boston from San Diego in 2004 for cornerback Jamar Fletcher and a 2005 sixth-round pick. Boston missed the entire 2004 season with a knee injury and caught only four passes for 80 yards in five games for Miami in 2005. Fletcher played 30 games for the Chargers over two seasons, while the pick became Wes Sims. Modest value was enough for San Diego to win clearly.
Miami sent a 2005 second-round pick to Philadelphia for quarterback A.J. Feeley, betting that his promising relief work behind Donovan McNabb could translate into a starting role. Feeley started eight games for the 2004 Dolphins, threw more interceptions than touchdowns, and was traded away the next season. Philadelphia turned the pick into receiver Reggie Brown and clearly extracted more lasting value.
Miami Dolphins acquired a conditional 2006 pick (not conveyed) from Green Bay Packers for Scott McGarrahan. The overall result favors Green Bay Packers over Miami Dolphins.
Miami Dolphins acquired a conditional 2004 pick (not conveyed) from Houston Texans for Deon Dyer. The available record does not show enough separation to call a clear long-term winner.
New Orleans acquired linebacker Derrick Rodgers from Miami in May 2003 for a 2004 seventh-round pick. Miami gained a future late-round asset and the Saints added an experienced defender at a very low acquisition cost. Neither side created a major long-term advantage, but New Orleans received usable veteran depth for a pick with limited expected value, giving the Saints a narrow edge rather than a decisive win.
Miami sent Carolina two seventh-round picks in 2003 to move up to No. 181 for linebacker Corey Jenkins. Jenkins never started an NFL game, but he appeared in all 16 games for Miami as a rookie and gave the Dolphins special-teams depth. Carolina selected Walter Young and Casey Moore; Young played seven games for the Panthers without a catch, while Moore did not become a regular-season contributor. Miami gained the slightly better return.
Miami acquired pick 78 in the 2003 draft from New England for its 2004 second-rounder, then selected offensive lineman Wade Smith. Smith gave the Dolphins limited early-career value before becoming a better player elsewhere. New England’s future pick became No. 56 and was traded to Cincinnati for Corey Dillon. Dillon immediately rushed for a franchise-record season and helped the Patriots win Super Bowl XXXIX, creating an overwhelming New England advantage.
Miami acquired Chargers legend Junior Seau in April 2003 for a 2004 fifth-round pick that San Diego used on Michael Turner. Seau immediately started 15 games for Miami and recorded 133 tackles, strengthening an already talented defense. Turner later became an excellent NFL running back, but most of his peak production came after leaving San Diego. Miami's immediate return was strong enough to give the Dolphins the trade win.
Miami acquired quarterback Sage Rosenfels from Washington in August 2002 for a 2003 seventh-round pick. Rosenfels served primarily as a reserve for the Dolphins and did not produce major statistics there, but he remained with the club for four seasons before later becoming a more experienced NFL backup and spot starter. Washington used the acquired late pick on Gibran Hamdan, who did not record meaningful NFL playing time. Miami gets the modest edge.
Tampa Bay acquired offensive tackle Cornell Green from Miami in August 2002 for a 2003 seventh-round pick. Green appeared in all 16 games and made three starts for the Buccaneers during their Super Bowl championship season, providing useful line depth. Miami later moved the acquired late-round selection rather than turning it into a direct long-term contributor. At such a small cost, Tampa Bay received the more valuable and timely return.
Miami acquired defensive end Jay Williams from Carolina in 2002, while the Panthers received defensive end Al Wallace plus a 2003 fourth-round pick that became safety Colin Branch. Williams gave Miami three useful seasons and 10.5 sacks from 2002 through 2004. Carolina nevertheless extracted greater total value: Wallace became a five-year Panthers contributor, and Branch started 19 games with four interceptions. The Panthers win, but Miami’s return was legitimately productive.
Miami Dolphins acquired a conditional 2003 pick (not conveyed) from San Francisco 49ers for Cade McNown. The overall result favors 49ers over Miami Dolphins.
Miami Dolphins acquired a conditional 2004 pick (not conveyed) from Cleveland Browns for J.J. Johnson. The available record does not show enough separation to call a clear long-term winner.
Miami acquired Ricky Williams and moved up 11 spots in the fourth round, while New Orleans received Miami's 2002 first-rounder, the lower fourth-round pick and a conditional 2003 selection that became a first-rounder. Williams immediately led the NFL with 1,853 rushing yards in 2002 and remained highly productive in 2003. New Orleans turned the premium picks into Charles Grant and part of the package used to draft Johnathan Sullivan.
Miami acquired quarterback Cade McNown and a 2002 seventh-round pick from Chicago, while the Bears received a 2002 sixth-rounder and a conditional 2003 pick that ultimately became a sixth-round selection. McNown never appeared in another NFL regular-season game after the trade. Chicago used the 2002 pick on Adrian Peterson, who played 106 career games and rushed for 1,283 yards, giving the Bears a decisive long-term advantage.
Miami moved from No. 56 to No. 52 in the 2001 second round and drafted wide receiver Chris Chambers, sending Dallas Nos. 56 and 122. Chambers played 153 career games, caught 540 passes for 7,648 yards and 58 touchdowns, and made a Pro Bowl. Dallas selected defensive back Tony Dixon and linebacker Markus Steele, both useful contributors, but neither approached Chambers’ sustained offensive production or peak value.
Miami acquired Philadelphia's 2001 third-round pick at No. 88, used on linebacker Morlon Greenwood, plus the sixth-round pick at No. 187, used on defensive end Otis Leverette. In return, Philadelphia received Miami's 2002 second-round selection, which became No. 59 and cornerback Sheldon Brown. Greenwood gave Miami four seasons of regular defensive work, but Brown's longer Philadelphia tenure creates the stronger return.
Miami acquired tight end Alonzo Mayes from Chicago for a 2001 seventh-round pick. Mayes had already shown some NFL receiving ability and appeared in 37 career games, while the Bears used the 208th pick on sprinter John Capel, who never played an NFL regular-season game. Mayes did not become a major Dolphins piece, but Miami received the only established professional football value in the exchange.
Miami acquired Jeff Ogden from Dallas for a 2002 seventh-round pick. Ogden became a useful return specialist for the Dolphins in 2000, including a punt-return touchdown, and finished his career with 67 NFL games. Dallas later moved the 237th selection rather than using it on the player eventually chosen there. The direct returns were modest enough that neither side created a meaningful long-term advantage.
San Diego acquired wide receiver and returner Nate Jacquet from Miami for a 2001 sixth-round pick. The Chargers got only a brief stint from Jacquet, while Miami eventually used the 164th selection on tackle Brandon Winey. Winey did not play for the Dolphins, but he reached the NFL and appeared in 24 games with three starts. The pick retained more downstream value than Jacquet’s short Chargers tenure.
Miami traded punter Brent Bartholomew to Chicago for the 232nd pick, which the Dolphins used on cornerback Jeff Harris. Harris never appeared in an NFL regular-season game. Bartholomew had only a brief career, but he did play seven games for Chicago in 2000 after the trade. With limited value on both sides, the Bears get a small edge for receiving actual regular-season production.
Miami acquired veteran punter Matt Turk from Washington for a 2001 seventh-round pick. Turk immediately handled all 16 games for the Dolphins in 2000, averaging 42.1 yards on 92 punts, and returned for several more Miami seasons. Washington received only late-round draft capital. Getting a proven starting specialist for such a small price makes Miami the clear winner, even though Turk’s Pro Bowl peak came earlier in Washington.
Miami Dolphins
Miami traded running back Karim Abdul-Jabbar to Cleveland at the 1999 deadline for a 2000 sixth-round pick. Abdul-Jabbar had already produced three 1,000-yard seasons in Miami but was nearing the end of his career. Cleveland received only a short-term backfield option, while Miami used the pick on Ernest Grant, a defensive tackle who played 24 NFL games. Neither side generated major lasting value.
Denver Broncos received John Avery. Miami Dolphins received Marcus Nash. The final review keeps this as an even trade because neither return separates enough for a win/loss label.
Miami Dolphins acquired Jim Druckenmiller from San Francisco 49ers for 2000 7th round pick (230th overall, Brian Jennings). The overall result favors 49ers over Miami Dolphins.
Miami traded defensive tackle Barron Tanner to Washington on September 4, 1999 for a 2001 sixth-round pick that became Josh Heupel. Tanner had played 29 games for Miami but did not appear in a regular-season game for Washington. Heupel also never became an NFL regular-season contributor, yet Miami still gained a draft asset for a player Washington did not use, giving the Dolphins the better side.
Miami moved down three spots in the 1999 first round, sending No. 24 to San Francisco for No. 27 and No. 134. The 49ers selected defensive tackle Reggie McGrew, while Miami later moved No. 27 again and used the fifth-rounder on Cecil Collins. McGrew played only 24 career games and Collins only eight, so neither side turned the exchange into major lasting value.
Miami sent the 27th pick in the 1999 draft to Detroit for selections 39, 72 and 142. Detroit used No. 27 on tackle Aaron Gibson, who played 38 career games and started 34. Miami used No. 39 on J.J. Johnson and retained two additional selections, giving the Dolphins greater total opportunity and enough production to win the exchange despite no star emerging.
Miami traded picks 54, 84 and a 2000 sixth-rounder to Kansas City for the 43rd pick in 1999, then selected fullback Rob Konrad. Konrad played 82 NFL games and spent his entire meaningful career with the Dolphins, catching 111 passes and serving as a versatile backfield piece. Kansas City received three selections but did not generate enough impact to surpass Miami’s dependable starter.
Miami Dolphins acquired Kevin Gogan from San Francisco 49ers for 1999 5th round pick (157th overall, Terry Jackson). The overall result favors 49ers over Miami Dolphins.
Miami traded a 1999 seventh-round pick to the Giants for running back Tyrone Wheatley on February 12, 1999. The Dolphins never received regular-season production from the former first-rounder, terminating his contract in August before he joined Oakland. New York used the pick on linebacker O.J. Childress, who played only four NFL games, so the Giants win is narrow and based mostly on recovering an asset for a player they were ready to move.
Philadelphia sent the 102nd pick to Miami for picks 112 and 142 in the 1998 draft. Miami selected defensive end Lorenzo Bromell, who played 77 NFL games. Philadelphia used its two selections on Brandon Whiting and Ike Reese. Whiting played 93 games and Reese 144, with Reese earning a Pro Bowl selection as a special-teams standout. The Eagles turned one fourth-rounder into two durable contributors.
Green Bay moved from No. 29 to No. 19 in the 1998 draft by sending Miami the 29th pick and the 60th pick. The Packers used No. 19 on defensive lineman Vonnie Holliday, who played 214 career games and recorded 62.5 sacks. Miami selected John Avery at No. 29 and later traded No. 60 to Detroit; Avery lasted only 29 NFL games, giving Green Bay the clearly stronger direct outcome.
Detroit sent Miami three later picks in the 1998 draft to acquire No. 60 and selected quarterback Charlie Batch. Batch started 46 games for the Lions and ultimately played 81 NFL games, throwing for 11,085 career yards. Miami used the return on Brad Jackson, Scott Shaw and John Dutton. Jackson became a useful defender, but the package did not approach the value of a multi-year starting quarterback.
Miami acquired the 44th pick in 1998 from Carolina for its 2000 first-round selection and drafted cornerback Patrick Surtain. Surtain became a three-time Pro Bowler and first-team All-Pro, anchoring an elite Dolphins secondary. Carolina eventually used the future first at No. 23 on Rashard Anderson, whose NFL career lasted only 27 games. The enormous difference in player value makes Miami the clear winner.
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.
Miami traded the 123rd pick to Oakland for three later selections: Nos. 157, 166 and 203. The Raiders used No. 123 on Chad Levitt, who played only 10 NFL games. Miami drafted Nicholas Lopez, John Fiala and Hudhaifa Ismaeli; Fiala eventually played 75 NFL games, but none of the three became a meaningful Dolphins contributor. The trade created opportunity without producing much value for either club.
Miami Dolphins acquired Troy Drayton from Los Angeles Rams for Billy Milner. Miami Dolphins received the stronger recorded football value, matching the Miami Dolphins Win verdict.
Kansas City acquired veteran kicker Pete Stoyanovich from Miami for a 1997 fifth-round pick. Stoyanovich became a high-end short-term answer, making 26 of 27 field goals in 1997 while the Chiefs went 13-3. Miami used the pick on defensive tackle Barron Tanner, who appeared in 29 games over two Dolphins seasons without starting. Kansas City received the more consequential team-specific value.
San Francisco sent Miami a 1997 fourth-round pick for running back Terry Kirby shortly before the 1996 season. Kirby immediately produced 998 yards from scrimmage in 14 regular-season games for the 49ers, adding receiving value to a championship-caliber offense. Miami gained a future pick that was later traded, but San Francisco received the more tangible and useful direct return.
Miami sent Kansas City the 98th pick and a 1997 seventh-rounder for the 113th and 125th picks. Kansas City used No. 98 on linebacker Donnie Edwards, who became a 197-game NFL starter with 107 career Approximate Value. Miami selected Kirk Pointer and LaCurtis Jones; neither became a meaningful long-term contributor. Edwards' career makes the Chiefs the overwhelming winner despite the extra future pick they surrendered.
Dallas moved up from No. 60 to No. 49 and selected linebacker Randall Godfrey, giving Miami the 60th and 99th picks. Godfrey developed into a long-term NFL starter, playing 170 career games. Miami immediately used both acquired picks in later trades, eventually turning them into a larger collection of selections. The Dolphins created flexibility, but Dallas landed the premium player and clearly won the direct exchange.
Miami sent Jacksonville the 60th and 99th picks for four selections: Nos. 79, 98, 134 and 150. The Dolphins' most valuable direct result was Shane Burton, who played 47 games and made 12 starts for Miami before continuing a 125-game NFL career. Jacksonville selected Michael Cheever at No. 60 and later moved No. 99 for more picks. Both teams created useful pieces, but Miami's larger package produced the better direct return.
Jacksonville Jaguars acquired Pete Mitchell from Miami Dolphins for Mike Williams. The available record does not show enough separation to call a clear long-term winner.
Chicago Bears and Miami Dolphins completed this exchange on 1995-04-04. Miami traded second- and third-round picks in 1995 for veteran defensive end Trace Armstrong. The edge still goes to Miami because the Dolphins acquired a premium-position veteran who gave them multiple seasons of pass-rush production without surrendering a first-round pick. The stronger overall return belongs to Miami Dolphins. The grades reflect direct team value plus clearly traceable use of any acquired pick that was later traded.
Miami sent Keith Jackson and the 117th pick to Green Bay for No. 53, then used that second-round selection on guard Andrew Greene. Greene played only six games and made one start for Miami. Jackson gave Green Bay veteran receiving production and later helped the Packers reach and win Super Bowl XXXI. Even with the extra fourth-round pick included, Green Bay received far more usable football value.
Green Bay sent Miami the 117th pick for veteran receiver Mark Ingram. Ingram started nine games for the Packers in 1995 and caught 39 passes for 469 yards and three touchdowns, giving Green Bay immediate offensive help. Miami held the fourth-rounder only briefly before sending the same selection back to Green Bay eight days later in the Keith Jackson trade. Green Bay received the clearer direct contribution.
Green Bay Packers and Miami Dolphins completed this exchange on 1994-04-24. Green Bay moved from No. This is an example of both teams executing their plan well. The stronger overall return belongs to Miami Dolphins. The grades reflect direct team value plus clearly traceable use of any acquired pick that was later traded.
Arizona Cardinals and Miami Dolphins completed this exchange on 1994-04-24. Miami packaged a third-round choice and two fourth-round choices to move up to No. Miami paid a real price in draft volume, which keeps Arizona's grade from the bottom of the scale. The stronger overall return belongs to Miami Dolphins. The grades reflect direct team value plus clearly traceable use of any acquired pick that was later traded.
Los Angeles Chargers and Miami Dolphins completed this exchange on 1994-03-24. Miami sent wide receiver Tony Martin to the Chargers for a 1994 fourth-round pick. Both sides can credibly like the result. The stronger overall return belongs to Los Angeles Chargers. The grades reflect direct team value plus clearly traceable use of any acquired pick that was later traded.
Miami traded Gene Williams to Cleveland for the 1994 fourth-round pick used on Ronnie Woolfork. Williams immediately became a starting offensive lineman for the Browns, making 23 starts across his two Cleveland seasons. Woolfork, selected 112th overall, never appeared in an NFL regular-season game. Cleveland clearly converted a modest draft cost into substantially more realized football value.
Miami Dolphins and New England Patriots completed this exchange on 1993-04-01. Fryar produced three excellent seasons in Miami, topping 1,000 receiving yards in 1993 and 1994 and totaling 3,190 receiving yards with 20 touchdowns across his Dolphins tenure. New England's return was legitimate because Rucci became a durable starting lineman during the franchise's rise under Bill Parcells. Following the acquired picks only through moves actually made by the receiving clubs, the overall result is Miami Dolphins Win.
Miami Dolphins received Bobby Humphrey (b) from Denver Broncos for Sammie Smith. The recorded outcome does not show enough separation to identify a clear winner.
Miami moved from No. 182 to No. 185 in the 1992 draft and also received No. 328, while Atlanta used No. 182 on Tim Paulk. Miami did not keep No. 185, later trading it to the Raiders for Nos. 191 and 296. None of the resulting players delivered substantial team-specific NFL value, leaving this as an even trade with low grades rather than a meaningful win.
Las Vegas Raiders acquired 1992 seventh round pick (#185-Kevin Smith (Linn)) from Miami Dolphins for 1992 seventh round pick (#191-Dave Moore); 1992 eleventh round pick (#296-Mark Barsotti). The available record does not show enough separation to call a clear long-term winner.
On 1991-09-03, Phoenix Cardinals and Miami Dolphins completed a deal whose long-term value became clearer after the players and draft choices developed. Phoenix's 1992 first-rounder became the seventh overall pick, and Miami selected cornerback Troy Vincent. The trade is especially striking because Miami escaped a poor initial draft fit and converted it into a much stronger player one year later. The result is Miami Dolphins Win, with Phoenix Cardinals graded D- and Miami Dolphins graded A+.
Miami moved up from No. 135 to No. 121 in the 1991 draft, sending Green Bay No. 135 plus No. 164. The Dolphins selected Gene Williams, who at least reached the field for Miami. Green Bay chose Jeff Fite and Joe Garten, but neither produced meaningful Packers regular-season value. Williams' later career elsewhere is excluded, yet his limited Miami contribution still exceeds Green Bay's return.
On 1991-04-21, Atlanta Falcons and Miami Dolphins completed a deal whose long-term value became clearer after the players and draft choices developed. McKyer started all 16 games for Atlanta in 1991, intercepted six passes and remained a starter for 15 more games in 1992. The team-specific comparison favors Atlanta because McKyer delivered exactly the immediate starting value the Falcons purchased. The result is Atlanta Falcons Win, with Atlanta Falcons graded B+ and Miami Dolphins graded C.
On 1991-04-04, Miami Dolphins and Houston Oilers completed a deal whose long-term value became clearer after the players and draft choices developed. Grimsley eventually started 20 games for Miami across the 1992 and 1993 seasons, so the Dolphins did obtain usable defensive value even though he did not become a long-term cornerstone. Houston's advantage rests on sustained team-specific value rather than Donnalley's later career elsewhere. The result is Houston Oilers Win, with Miami Dolphins graded C and Houston Oilers graded A.
Miami sent linebacker Eric Kumerow to Chicago for cornerback Vestee Jackson on January 31, 1991. Jackson became a useful piece of the Dolphins secondary, starting 26 games across three Miami seasons and intercepting three passes in 1992, including a touchdown return. Kumerow never played a regular-season game for Chicago after an Achilles injury, giving Miami the better realized return.
Miami acquired nose tackle Shawn Lee from Atlanta on September 3, 1990, for a 1991 twelfth-round selection that became pick No. 331, Joe Brunson. Lee gave the Dolphins immediate defensive-line depth, while the extremely late pick did not develop into meaningful NFL value for Atlanta. Miami gained the more useful direct return, but the low acquisition cost and limited duration keep the trade near even overall.
Miami sent Cleveland the 178th pick in the 1990 draft, which became Scott Galbraith, for a 1991 fifth-round choice that landed at No. 113. The Dolphins used that future pick on linebacker Bryan Cox. Cox became a three-time Pro Bowler and one of Miami's defensive leaders, turning a seventh-round investment into a major long-term return and giving the Dolphins a clear win.
Miami acquired cornerback Tim McKyer from San Francisco on April 23, 1990, for an eleventh-round pick that became Anthony Shelton and a 1991 second-rounder that became No. 52, Lamar Rogers. The 49ers later paired that second-round pick with another choice to move up for Ricky Watters. McKyer's Miami stay was short, while San Francisco converted the premium asset into valuable draft leverage.
Miami Dolphins acquired 1990 fifth round pick (#137-Leroy Holt) from Washington Redskins/Commanders for 1990 tenth round pick (#262-D'Juan Francisco); 1991 fourth round pick (#108-Tony Hill). The final verdict remains Washington Redskins Win, with the grades reflecting the recorded asset value and the available historical return.
Miami Dolphins
Miami acquired quarterback Scott Secules from Dallas on August 6, 1989 for a 1990 fifth-round pick that became No. 120, James Gray. Secules served as a Dolphins reserve for three seasons and saw limited passing work. Dallas later included the acquired pick in a draft-day package with New England that brought back higher selections, including the pick used on defensive tackle Jimmie Jones. Dallas converted the asset more effectively.
Miami moved up to No. 25 in the 1989 draft and selected safety Louis Oliver, sending Chicago picks No. 36 and No. 65. Oliver became a long-term Dolphins starter and ballhawk, while the Bears turned their two selections into linebacker John Roper and center Jerry Fontenot, with Fontenot becoming a durable multi-year starter. Both teams extracted substantial value from the swap.
Minnesota acquired veteran guard Greg Koch from Miami on October 20, 1987, for sixth- and tenth-round selections in the next two drafts. Koch immediately started six games for a Vikings team that reached the NFC Championship Game. Miami used the picks on George Cooper and Greg Ross, neither of whom produced a regular-season NFL career. Minnesota received timely line help at a very small cost and won the exchange.
Miami Dolphins acquired 1988 eighth round pick (#220-Louis Cheek) from Denver Broncos for Larry Lee (b). The final verdict remains Denver Broncos Win, with the grades reflecting the recorded asset value and the available historical return.
Miami moved up from No. 70 to No. 56 in the 1987 draft, sending St. Louis the third-round choice plus No. 126. The Dolphins selected receiver and returner Scott Schwedes, who played 46 NFL games and contributed on offense and special teams. The Cardinals used their picks on Colin Scotts and John Bruno, who combined for little sustained NFL value. Miami obtained the only meaningful multi-year contributor.
Kansas City acquired pick No. 128 in the 1987 draft from Miami and used it on receiver Kitrick Taylor. The Dolphins received pick No. 132 and pick No. 212, selecting Chris Conlin and Mark Dennis. Taylor gave Kansas City one 16-game season with nine catches, while Dennis became a long-term Miami tackle with 68 career starts, making the Dolphins' two-pick return clearly stronger.
Miami moved down two spots in the first round of the 1987 draft, sending No. 14 to Minnesota for No. 16 and a fifth-round choice. The Dolphins turned those picks into defensive end John Bosa and receiver Kitrick Taylor. Bosa supplied 7 sacks in 31 NFL games, while Taylor had a modest pro career, leaving Miami with useful but limited value from the extra capital.
Miami acquired linebacker Hugh Green from Tampa Bay on October 9, 1985 for 1986 first- and second-round picks. Green immediately strengthened the Dolphins defense and remained with Miami through 1991, providing several seasons of starting-caliber play. The price was substantial, but the Dolphins received a proven defender for years rather than a short rental, making their side defensible.
Minnesota acquired Miami's NFL rights to Anthony Carter in August 1985, sending linebacker Robin Sendlein and a 1986 second-round pick that later became Kevin Murphy after further movement. Carter immediately became a premier Vikings receiver and stayed through 1993, producing 7,635 receiving yards for Minnesota. That sustained star-level return makes this a decisive Vikings victory.
Miami Dolphins acquired Bryan Clark from Cincinnati Bengals for 1986 conditional pick (if Clark makes Dolphins roster) (not exercised). The available record does not show enough separation to call a clear long-term winner.
Miami acquired Pete Johnson from San Diego on September 22, 1984, sending the rights to Dewey Forte and a 1985 second-round pick. Johnson gave the Dolphins immediate goal-line value with nine rushing touchdowns in 13 games during a Super Bowl season. San Diego used No. 55 on Jeffery Dale, who played 42 games and intercepted six passes. The Chargers gained the slightly stronger multi-year return.
Miami Dolphins acquired Chuck Muncie from Los Angeles Chargers for 1985 second round pick (voided). The available record does not show enough separation to call a clear long-term winner.
Miami traded veteran cornerback Gerald Small to Atlanta in August 1984 and received offensive lineman Ronnie Lee plus a 1985 sixth-round pick that became No. 145, George Shorthose. Small played one season for the Falcons. Lee, by contrast, returned to Miami and became a multi-year starting lineman through 1989, giving the Dolphins the clear long-term advantage even before considering the extra pick.
Detroit Lions received Terry Tautolo from Miami Dolphins for past considerations (details not identified). The recorded outcome favors Detroit Lions.
Miami Dolphins received past considerations (details not identified) from Detroit Lions for Terry Tautolo. The recorded outcome favors Detroit Lions.
Buffalo moved down from No. 14 to No. 26 in the 1984 draft and also received third-round picks Nos. 79 and 82 from Miami. The Bills selected Greg Bell, Sean McNanie and Speedy Neal. Bell immediately rushed for 1,100 yards and made the Pro Bowl as a rookie. Miami got Jackie Shipp, a useful multi-year starter, but Buffalo’s three-player return created greater total value.
Cleveland sent its 1985 fourth-round pick, No. 91 overall, to Miami on March 27, 1984 for receiver Duriel Harris. Harris started 11 games for the Browns in 1984 and caught 32 passes for 512 yards and two touchdowns, giving Cleveland a useful immediate season. Miami used No. 91 on Mike Smith, whose NFL impact was limited, leaving Cleveland with the better realized return.
Miami traded center Mark Dennard to Philadelphia on March 7, 1984, for an undisclosed 1985 draft choice that became the third-round pick at No. 65. The Eagles installed Dennard as their starting center, and he started all 16 games in both 1984 and 1985. Miami used the acquired selection on George Little, whose NFL impact was much smaller.
Miami traded quarterback David Woodley to Pittsburgh on February 21, 1984 for a 1984 third-round pick, No. 79 overall. Woodley started 13 games across 1984 and 1985 for the Steelers and provided useful quarterback depth. Miami later used No. 79 as part of its move up for Jackie Shipp. Both clubs turned the transaction into meaningful, though not franchise-defining, value.
Miami traded punter Tom Orosz to San Francisco near the end of the 1983 preseason for a 1984 twelfth-round selection. The Dolphins used No. 320 on William Devane, who did not establish an NFL career. Orosz, meanwhile, handled punting duties for the 49ers during the 1983 season and remained with the club into 1984, giving San Francisco the only meaningful professional return.
Miami Dolphins acquired Larry Evans from Denver Broncos for 1985 fifth round pick (#139-Billy Hinson). The final grade stays even because neither side created a clear long-term value gap from the recorded return.
Miami Dolphins received Ed Simonini from New Orleans Saints for future considerations (details not identified). The recorded outcome does not show enough separation to identify a clear winner.
Miami moved from No. 83 to No. 76 in the 1983 draft and selected defensive end Charles Benson, sending Houston the No. 83 pick plus No. 139. Benson played 28 NFL games and recorded two sacks. The Oilers used the two incoming selections on defensive back Steve Brown and defensive lineman Jerome Foster, receiving far more combined professional production from the exchange.
Los Angeles/San Diego Chargers received George Roberts from Miami Dolphins for 1982 sixth round pick (#161-Tom Totson). The recorded outcome favors Miami Dolphins.
Philadelphia acquired fullback Steve Howell from Miami on August 18, 1981 for a 1982 tenth-round selection. Howell did not record regular-season statistics for the Eagles after the trade. Miami used the pick at No. 271 on Florida linebacker Robin Fisher, who did not play an NFL regular-season game. Because neither side turned the transaction into meaningful on-field value, the result settles as an Even Trade.
Detroit traded guard Bill Searcey to Miami on August 12, 1981 for the Dolphins' 1982 twelfth-round selection. The exact player ultimately tied to that late pick is not secure enough to credit here, but Miami's return is clear: Searcey was released five days after the trade and never played a regular-season game for the Dolphins. Detroit wins narrowly because it recovered a draft asset for a player Miami did not use.
Miami Dolphins received Andre Hines from Seattle Seahawks for conditional draft pick (conditions not identified). The recorded outcome does not show enough separation to identify a clear winner.
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.
Miami moved veteran linebacker Steve Towle to Detroit for the 1982 ninth-round pick that became Steve Clark at No. 239. Towle went to injured reserve before playing a regular-season game for the Lions and later retired. Clark, meanwhile, played 41 NFL games with five starts for Miami. The Dolphins turned an outgoing veteran into several seasons of useful depth.
Miami acquired linebacker Bob Brudzinski and the 1981 second-round pick used on fullback Andra Franklin, producing two major contributors. Brudzinski started for years and Franklin rushed for 2,232 yards with a Pro Bowl season. Los Angeles received the picks that included linebacker Jim Collins plus valuable selections later moved in other deals. Collins became a Pro Bowler and long-term Rams starter. Both organizations built substantial value, supporting an Even Trade.
Miami Dolphins acquired Rod Walters from Kansas City Chiefs for an undisclosed draft pick. The available record does not show enough separation to call a clear long-term winner.
Miami traded Hall of Fame center Jim Langer to Minnesota on September 24, 1980 for 1981 and 1982 draft picks that became Fulton Walker and Bob Nelson. Walker developed into an excellent Dolphins return specialist and later scored a 98-yard kickoff-return touchdown in Super Bowl XVII. Nelson did not stick in Miami, but Walker's value gives the Dolphins a respectable return despite surrendering a legendary veteran.
Miami traded quarterback Guy Benjamin to New Orleans on August 28, 1980 for a 1981 fourth-round pick and a 1982 seventh-rounder. Benjamin played only two games for the Saints before they moved him again. Miami's fourth-rounder, Sam Greene, did not stick, but seventh-rounder Dan Johnson became a productive Dolphins tight end with 66 games, 34 starts, 1,012 receiving yards and 16 touchdowns. Miami won the exchange.
Miami acquired running back Jimmy DuBose and a 1982 second-round pick, No. 44, from Tampa Bay for Gary Davis and Norris Thomas. DuBose did not become a meaningful Miami contributor, but the future second retained substantial value and later helped Miami assemble another trade package. Tampa Bay, meanwhile, received immediate regular-season service from both Davis and Thomas. The mix of short-term player value and future draft value keeps this exchange even.
Miami Dolphins acquired Burton Lawless from Dallas Cowboys for a draft pick that was not exercised. Miami Dolphins received the stronger recorded football value.
Miami obtained Philadelphia's 1980 tenth-round selection, No. 272, and used it on defensive back Ben Long. Contemporary team draft histories agree that an eleventh-round consideration went back to Philadelphia, although the exact Eagles selection is described differently by surviving references. With little NFL value produced on either side, the fairest result is an even trade.
Miami Dolphins
Miami received Philadelphia's 1981 fifth-round pick, No. 138, and used it on Tommy Vigorito. Vigorito played 35 NFL games and contributed as a runner, receiver and punt returner, including two punt-return touchdowns, so the Dolphins did receive useful value. The longer view produces a B- grade for Miami Dolphins. Philadelphia earns a B+ and Miami a B-.
San Francisco acquired defensive back Charles Cornelius from Miami in August 1979 for an 1980 eleventh-round selection, later No. 279 Phil Driscoll. Cornelius became an immediate 49ers starter, opening 14 games in 1979 with three interceptions and then making six more starts in 1980. Driscoll did not become an NFL regular-season contributor for Miami. Turning an eleventh-round pick into 20 starts across two seasons gives San Francisco the clear advantage.
Atlanta received Miami's 1979 third-round pick, No. 79, and selected William Andrews. Andrews became one of the most productive backs in Falcons history, rushing for 5,986 yards and adding 2,647 receiving yards during his NFL career. The longer view produces a A+ grade for Atlanta Falcons. Atlanta earns an A+ and Miami a C.
Miami acquired defensive back Neal Colzie from the Raiders in March 1979 for a third-round selection, No. 80. Colzie immediately started all 16 games for the Dolphins and intercepted five passes in his lone Miami season. The Raiders retained useful draft value and later combined No. 80 with another pick in the deal for defensive lineman Dave Pear, so their return was not empty. Colzie's direct full-season impact gives Miami a narrow, defensible edge.
Miami received fullback Jim Braxton and Washington's 1979 third-round pick at No. 80. Braxton's Dolphins stay was brief, but Miami later used the No. 80 selection in the March 1979 deal for safety Neal Colzie, preserving meaningful value from the draft asset. The hindsight grade is B-, with the overall verdict recorded as Miami Dolphins Win.
Detroit acquired tackle Karl Baldischwiler for a tenth-round choice. Baldischwiler played all 16 games in each of his first four Detroit seasons and appeared in 73 games for the Lions from 1978 through 1982, giving the club years of dependable offensive-line depth and starting experience. The hindsight grade is B+, with the overall verdict recorded as Detroit Lions Win.
Miami Dolphins acquired 1979 sixth round pick (not exercised?) from Washington Commanders for Bill Kenney. The available record does not show enough separation to call a clear long-term winner.
Miami acquired veteran defensive end Council Rudolph. Rudolph's documented NFL playing career ended after the 1977 season, and he did not appear in a regular-season game for the Dolphins after the trade, leaving Miami without realized on-field value from the acquisition. The hindsight grade is D, with the overall verdict recorded as Tampa Bay Buccaneers Win.
Miami received two eighth-round selections, including the 1980 pick at No. 214 used on quarterback David Woodley. Woodley became a multi-year Dolphins starter and started Super Bowl XVII, creating major value from a very late draft choice. The longer view produces a A grade for Miami Dolphins. Miami earns an A and Washington a D+.
Miami acquired Delvin Williams and immediately received a 1,258-yard rushing season in 1978. Williams remained a significant part of the Dolphins backfield through 1980, giving Miami three seasons of real offensive production. The cost was enormous, however: San Francisco received Freddie Solomon, Vern Roberson and two draft picks, including the first-rounder used on Dan Bunz.
Tampa Bay acquired cornerback Jeris White from Miami for a 1978 fifth-round pick that Dolphins records connect to No. 111 Ted Burgmeier. White immediately became a full-time Buccaneers starter and produced 12 interceptions across 46 games in three seasons. The fifth-round return did not approach that impact, making Tampa Bay the clear winner.
Miami sent tackle Darryl Carlton to Tampa Bay for veteran tackle Mike Current and the Buccaneers' 1978 fifth-round pick. Current started 45 games for the Dolphins from 1977 through 1979. Miami later returned the same fifth-round asset to Tampa Bay in a separate August 30 trade for Steve Young, so Young is a downstream use of the pick rather than a direct asset in this exchange.
Miami acquired defensive lineman Carl Barisich from Seattle for an eleventh-round pick in the 1978 draft. Barisich appeared in 45 games for the Dolphins from 1977 through 1980, giving Miami four seasons of useful depth. Seattle used No. 301 on George Halas, whose selection did not produce comparable NFL value for the Seahawks.
Miami acquired Winston Hill from the New York Jets for conditional future considerations. Because the conditions and final return are not identified, the transaction remains Even.
Miami acquired the rights to Jim Stansik from San Diego for a conditional 1978 tenth-round pick payable if Stansik made the roster. The conditional, low-impact exchange remains Even.
Miami completed a long-running Bo Rather compensation chain on draft day in 1977, sending Chicago the fourth-round pick at No. 110 and returning the fifth-round pick at No. 126 for Chicago's third-rounder at No. 71. Miami used No. 71 on Mike Watson, who never appeared in an NFL regular-season game, while Chicago immediately used No. 110 in the Mike Phipps trade.
Tampa Bay acquired an unidentified 1977 sixth-round pick from Miami for Barry Smith and Randy Young. The draft return gave the Buccaneers a narrow advantage.
Miami acquired the 1977 fifth-round pick used on Mike Michel and an additional unidentified sixth-round pick from Tampa Bay for the rights to Ray Nettles. The two-pick return gave Miami the better result.
Miami acquired veteran cornerback Ken Ellis from Houston during the 1976 season and received a short-term defensive contributor. Ellis appeared in 12 games with five starts for the Dolphins. The cost became much more significant when Houston used Miami's 1977 third-round choice on Jimmie Giles and also held a fourth-round selection, giving the Oilers the stronger return.
Miami Dolphins received Andy Selfridge and undisclosed consideration from New York Giants for 1977 sixth round pick (#153-Emery Moorehead) and undisclosed consideration. The recorded outcome does not show enough separation to identify a clear winner.
Miami Dolphins received draft pick (selection not identified) from Philadelphia Eagles for Don Testerman. The recorded outcome does not show enough separation to identify a clear winner.
Los Angeles/San Diego Chargers received Eugene Morris / Mercury Morris from Miami Dolphins for 1977 fourth round pick (#98) [later traded with 1977 third round pick (#70-Jimmie Giles) to Houston Oilers/Tennessee Titans for Ken Ellis]. The recorded outcome is even.
Washington received Jake Scott (E.) and 1977 fourth round pick (#97-Duncan McColl) from Miami Dolphins for Bryant Salter. The recorded outcome favors Washington.
St. Louis acquired linebacker Rodrigo Barnes from Miami for a 1976 twelfth-round choice. Barnes did not become a lasting Cardinals contributor and later appeared in five games for Oakland that season. With little realized value on the St. Louis side, the deal offered only a short-lived attempt to add veteran defensive help.
Chicago moved the 1976 selections that became Mel Mitchell and Sanders Shiver's slot arrangement while receiving the choices used on Wayne Rhodes and, through the documented fifth-round routing, Sanders Shiver. The direct player outcomes were modest. Because the later provenance of Miami's 1977 No. 126 choice is disputed, that pick is not credited with an unsupported downstream gain.
Miami sent wide receiver Melvin Baker to New Orleans for a 1976 seventh-round choice used on Joe Ingersoll. Baker appeared in two games with one start for the Saints before moving on, while Ingersoll never logged an NFL regular-season career. Neither return was substantial, but New Orleans at least received brief on-field production, giving the Saints a narrow edge.
Detroit acquired linebacker Larry Ball plus Miami’s 1976 fifth-round choice, while the Dolphins received Detroit’s 1976 fourth-round choice. Ball immediately appeared in all 14 games for the Lions in 1975, and Detroit also retained an additional draft asset. Miami later recycled the fourth-round capital, but Detroit obtained the clearer immediate return and earns a modest win.
Miami Dolphins received Cotton Speyrer from Washington for undisclosed draft pick (selection not identified). The recorded outcome does not show enough separation to identify a clear winner.
Los Angeles/San Diego Chargers received Bruce Bannon from Miami Dolphins for Pete Lazetich. The recorded outcome favors Miami Dolphins.
Miami acquired Norm Bulaich from Philadelphia for a 1976 fourth-round pick and received five seasons from the veteran back. Bulaich scored 10 total touchdowns in his first Dolphins season and remained a regular contributor through 1979. Philadelphia used the No. 111 selection on defensive end Mike Smith, who never appeared in an NFL regular-season game. Miami clearly realized more value.
Washington received Marv Fleming from Miami Dolphins for rights to Charles Harraway / Charley Harraway / Charlie Harraway and 1977 fourth round pick (#110) [later traded with 1977 fifth round pick (#126, later used by Oakland on Lester Hayes) to Chicago Bears for 1977 third round pick (#71-Mike Watson)]. The recorded outcome favors Miami Dolphins.
St. Louis acquired Marlin Briscoe and Hubie Ginn from Miami, while the Dolphins received Donny Anderson plus separate compensation tied to tight end Jim McFarland. The principal pieces produced little for their new clubs: Briscoe was moved again before the season, and Anderson retired in August without playing for Miami. The limited realized value makes this effectively even.
Washington received rights to Karl Lorch from Miami Dolphins for 1976 tenth round pick (#281-Gary Fencik). The recorded outcome favors Washington.
Miami Dolphins received 1975 fifth round pick (#106-Morris Owens) and undisclosed consideration from New York Giants for Henry Stuckey and undisclosed consideration. The recorded outcome does not show enough separation to identify a clear winner.
Chicago acquired wide receiver Bo Rather from Miami on September 10, 1974 for the Bears' 1977 third-round pick, later No. 71. Rather immediately contributed 29 catches, 400 yards and three touchdowns for Chicago in 1974 and remained a starter in 1975. Miami eventually used the pick on Mike Watson, who did not play a regular-season game for the Dolphins.
Miami acquired offensive lineman John Mooring from the Jets on August 28, 1974, while New York received the 1975 sixth-round choice that became Tom Alward at No. 153. Mooring did not establish himself in Miami and was assigned to New Orleans on waivers less than two weeks later. Alward did not provide direct Jets value from the acquired choice, so neither side converted the exchange into a meaningful long-term return. The realized value on both sides makes an even verdict the fairest result.
Washington acquired Howard Kindig, but he did not become a lasting piece for the club. Miami received the 1975 tenth-round selection used on Joe Jackson, who did not produce an NFL career. The transaction moved a veteran for a late pick, but neither side converted its return into durable on-field value. The cleanest hindsight judgment is an even result at a low grade.
Miami Dolphins received 1975 14th round pick (exercised in 13th round #338-James Lewis (a)) and undisclosed consideration from New York Giants for Ed Jenkins / Eddie Jenkins and undisclosed consideration. The recorded outcome does not show enough separation to identify a clear winner.
The Jets acquired defensive lineman Larry Woods. Miami received the 1975 sixth-round pick that became linebacker Steve Towle, who played 78 NFL games and became a substantial contributor for the Dolphins. A sixth-round asset turning into a multi-season linebacker is exactly the kind of surplus value that separates this from an even exchange. Woods did not provide New York a comparable return.
Washington acquired the NFL rights to Joe Theismann. Miami received Washington's 1976 first-round selection and used No. 17 on linebacker Larry Gordon, who became a productive long-term Dolphin. Theismann eventually became Washington's franchise quarterback and led the club to a Super Bowl championship. Miami received genuine first-round value and drafted a good starter, so this was not a bad deal for the Dolphins. Theismann's quarterback value, longevity and championship impact nevertheless made Washington's side more consequential.
Miami acquired Don Nottingham and a 1974 sixth-round pick from Baltimore for Hubert Ginn on October 2, 1973. Nottingham became a five-season Dolphins contributor and scored 25 rushing touchdowns from 1974 through 1977, while the pick became Randy Crowder. Ginn played only nine games for Baltimore before returning to Miami, producing a decisive Dolphins win.
Miami sent Jeff White to New Orleans for the 1974 seventh-round pick later used on Carl Swierc. White did not record a Saints regular-season contribution, and Swierc did not produce an NFL regular-season career for Miami. With neither acquired asset creating meaningful direct value for its new club, the exchange finishes as an even trade with matching C grades.
Buffalo Bills received Mike Kadish from Miami Dolphins for Irv Goode. The recorded outcome does not show enough separation to identify a clear winner.
Miami traded reserve quarterback Jim Del Gaizo to Green Bay for second-round selections in 1974 and 1975. The Dolphins used those picks on Andre Tillman and Freddie Solomon, both of whom became multi-season contributors, while Del Gaizo went 2-6 in touchdown-to-interception ratio over eight Packers games. Miami converted a backup quarterback into two productive young players and won decisively.
Miami sent Dave McCurry to Chicago for a 1974 ninth-round selection and used the pick on offensive tackle Tom Wickert. Wickert played 13 games with three starts for the Dolphins as a rookie, while McCurry did not make a Bears regular-season contribution after the trade. Turning a player Chicago quickly released into usable line depth gives Miami the win.
Miami sent receiver Otto Stowe to Dallas and received Ron Sellers plus the 1974 second-round pick used on Benny Malone. Sellers contributed only briefly for the Dolphins, but the premium draft choice gave Miami substantially more long-term asset value than Dallas received from Stowe's short 1973 stay. The second-round return keeps this as a clear Dolphins win.
Miami traded veteran center Bob DeMarco to Cleveland on September 26, 1972 for the Browns' 1973 seventh-round choice, later used on Willie Hatter. Hatter never played an NFL regular-season game, while DeMarco became a Cleveland starter and made 27 starts across 1973 and 1974. The Browns therefore obtained substantially more direct football value from the exchange.
New England Patriots received Bill Griffin from Miami Dolphins for 1973 seventh round pick (#163-Benny Shepherd). The recorded outcome favors Miami Dolphins.
Miami Dolphins received undisclosed draft pick (selection not identified) from Buffalo Bills for Bob DeMarco. The recorded outcome does not show enough separation to identify a clear winner.
Miami traded tackle Wayne Mass to New England on August 28, 1972 for the Patriots' 1973 seventh-round pick, which became No. 160 overall. Miami selected linebacker Kevin Reilly with that choice. Mass played only six games for New England in 1972, while Reilly never played for Miami, making this a modest Dolphins win rather than a major haul.
Buffalo Bills received Frank Cornish from Miami Dolphins for Howard Kindig and 1973 fifth round pick (#111-Don Strock). The recorded outcome favors Miami Dolphins.
Cincinnati Bengals received Les Shy from Miami Dolphins for Don Lamb / Ron Lamb?. The recorded outcome does not show enough separation to identify a clear winner.
Miami acquired linebacker Steve Kiner from New England on August 4, 1972 for offensive tackle Bill Griffin. The historical record supports one Griffin in the exchange, not two separate players. Kiner was waived by Miami before the regular season, while Griffin never produced regular-season NFL value for New England. With neither side realizing meaningful on-field return, this belongs as an even trade.
Miami Dolphins received 1973 sixth round pick (selection not identified) from Los Angeles/San Diego Chargers for John Richardson. The recorded outcome favors Miami Dolphins.
Buffalo acquired Miami's 1973 first-round pick, No. 26, and linebacker Dale Farley for wide receiver Marlin Briscoe and defensive lineman Jim Dunaway. The Bills used No. 26 on Hall of Fame guard Joe DeLamielleure. Miami still received meaningful championship-era value from Briscoe, but Buffalo secured the best long-term player and a franchise cornerstone from the exchange.
Denver Broncos received John Stofa from Miami Dolphins for 1972 seventh round pick (#161-Bill Adams). The recorded outcome favors Denver Broncos.
Houston Oilers/Tennessee Titans received no separately listed compensation from Miami Dolphins for Russell Price. The recorded outcome does not show enough separation to identify a clear winner.
Los Angeles/San Diego Chargers received Carl Mauck from Miami Dolphins for Tony Liscio and 1972 fourth round pick (#91-Larry Ball). The recorded outcome does not show enough separation to identify a clear winner.
Miami acquired linebacker Bob Matheson from Cleveland for a 1972 second-round selection that became No. 51 overall and Lester Sims. Matheson remained with the Dolphins through the decade, playing a specialized role on championship defenses and becoming associated with Miami's famed 53 defense. Cleveland's draft return never produced comparable value. A second-rounder was a meaningful price, but Miami's sustained payoff makes this a clear Dolphins win.
Miami Dolphins received Russell Price from Houston Oilers/Tennessee Titans for undisclosed draft pick (selection not identified) and 1972 tenth round pick (#259-Jim Butler / Jimmy Butler / Jack Butler/ Cannonball Butler). The recorded outcome does not show enough separation to identify a clear winner.
Miami Dolphins received Wesley Grant / Wes Grant and undisclosed consideration from New York Giants for 1972 third round pick (not exercised?) and undisclosed consideration. The recorded outcome does not show enough separation to identify a clear winner.
Miami Dolphins received conditional tenth round pick (not exercised) from Buffalo Bills for Dick Palmer. The recorded outcome does not show enough separation to identify a clear winner.
Pittsburgh Steelers received 1971 eighth round pick (#203-Ernie Holmes / Fat Holmes) from Miami Dolphins for Bob DeMarco. The recorded outcome favors Pittsburgh Steelers.
Miami acquired offensive lineman Lance Olssen from San Francisco for defensive back Tom Beier in May 1970. Olssen was released without appearing in a Dolphins regular-season game, while Beier likewise failed to make a regular-season appearance for the 49ers. Both players continued to have football transactions afterward, but neither produced NFL value for the club that acquired him in this exchange. With no realized return on either side, the trade is even.
Minnesota acquired veteran cornerback Dick Westmoreland from Miami in May 1970 for guard Bookie Bolin. Westmoreland had been a productive Dolphins defender, but Minnesota released him before the regular season. Bolin’s NFL career had effectively ended after the 1969 season, so Miami also received no on-field return. With neither incoming player producing regular-season value for his new club, the exchange finishes essentially even.
Miami sent the third overall pick in the 1970 draft to Cleveland for All-Pro receiver Paul Warfield. The Browns selected quarterback Mike Phipps, who had uneven results and never became their long-term answer. Warfield became a centerpiece of Miami’s three straight Super Bowl teams, winning two championships and stretching defenses for the perfect 1972 club. Few trades show a larger gap between immediate star value and draft conversion.
Miami Dolphins
Miami Dolphins received Jeff Richardson from Cincinnati Bengals for cash. The recorded outcome does not show enough separation to identify a clear winner.
San Diego traded guard Larry Little to Miami for cornerback Mack Lamb after two seasons of uncertainty about Little’s role and conditioning. Lamb never appeared in another professional game, while Little developed into one of the defining offensive linemen of the 1970s and eventually entered the Pro Football Hall of Fame. The Chargers surrendered elite future value and received essentially no on-field return.
Miami acquired linebacker Nick Buoniconti from Boston for linebacker John Bramlett, quarterback Kim Hammond and Miami's 1970 fifth-round choice, later used on Bob Olson. Buoniconti immediately became the organizing force of a defense that would anchor three straight Super Bowl teams and the perfect 1972 Dolphins, turning a modest three-asset package into one of the franchise's defining trades.
Miami Dolphins received draft pick (selection not identified) from Oakland/Las Vegas Raiders for Hershell Jacobs / Herschel Jacobs. The recorded outcome does not show enough separation to identify a clear winner.
Los Angeles/San Diego Chargers received Bob Bruggers from Miami Dolphins for cash. The recorded outcome favors Los Angeles/San Diego Chargers.
Miami Dolphins received Sammy Grezaffi from Kansas City Chiefs for cash. The recorded outcome favors Miami Dolphins.
Oakland/Las Vegas Raiders received John Roderick from Miami Dolphins for 1969 fifth round pick (#128-Karl Kremser). The recorded outcome does not show enough separation to identify a clear winner.
Los Angeles/San Diego Chargers received Tom Erlandson (a) from Miami Dolphins for 1969 seventh round pick (#174-John Kulka). The recorded outcome does not show enough separation to identify a clear winner.
Miami sent quarterback Billy Anderson to Houston in December 1967 for a 1968 ninth-round pick, No. 240, later used on defensive back Tom Paciorek. Anderson’s NFL career consisted of eight games for the Oilers in 1967, and Paciorek never played an NFL regular-season game. With neither side receiving meaningful post-transaction NFL production, the exchange lands squarely in even territory.
Cincinnati acquired quarterback John Stofa from Miami before the franchise’s inaugural 1968 season, surrendering two draft choices that became No. 27 Doug Crusan and No. 54 Jim Cox. Stofa started seven games for the expansion Bengals and threw for 896 yards and five touchdowns. That immediate quarterback help mattered, but Miami’s return included a first-round tackle who became a multi-year starter.
San Diego acquired quarterback Jon Brittenum from Miami for a 1968 third-round pick, No. 73. Brittenum appeared in 14 AFL games but completed only nine passes for 125 yards, while Miami used the pick on safety Dick Anderson. Anderson became a 121-game Dolphin, three-time Pro Bowler, two-time first-team All-Pro, two-time Super Bowl champion and 1973 AP Defensive Player of the Year, making the gap enormous.
Miami Dolphins received Gerald Lusteg / Booth Lusteg from New York Jets for cash. The recorded outcome favors Miami Dolphins.
Miami acquired quarterback Archie Roberts from the New York Jets on September 26, 1967, for its 1968 eighth-round selection, which became No. 200 Bob Taylor. Roberts appeared in one Dolphins game, completing five of ten passes for 11 yards with an interception. Taylor never played an NFL regular-season game, leaving both teams with only modest on-field value from the exchange.
Oakland/Las Vegas Raiders received Dave Kocourek from Miami Dolphins for 1968 eighth round pick (#217-Randall Edmonds / Randy Edmonds). The recorded outcome does not show enough separation to identify a clear winner.
Denver Broncos received 1968 fourth round pick (#91-Gordon Lambert) from Miami Dolphins for John Bramlett. The recorded outcome does not show enough separation to identify a clear winner.
Miami Dolphins received cash from New England Patriots for Eddie Wilson (a). The recorded outcome does not show enough separation to identify a clear winner.
Denver Broncos received Earl Faison, Carlton Gilchrist / Cookie Gilchrist, Ernest Park / Earnie Park / Ernie Park, and George Wilson Jr. from Miami Dolphins for Abner Haynes, Jerry Hopkins, Dan LaRose / Danny LaRose, and 1968 sixth round pick (#142-Kim Hammond). Denver's return produced little durable value: Faison and Wilson did not become meaningful Broncos contributors, Gilchrist barely played, and Park supplied the clearest short-term work. Miami's package ultimately produced the stronger team value, supporting a Miami Dolphins Win verdict.
Denver Broncos received Bill Cronin from Miami Dolphins for (Herschel) Ray Jacobs. The recorded outcome does not show enough separation to identify a clear winner.
Miami Dolphins received Mike Hudock from New York Jets for Nick DeFelice. Hudock's second Miami stay was brief, and he moved on again during 1967. Across the complete player and draft outcomes, the exchange supports the Even Trade verdict while still crediting the other club for the useful value it realized.
Denver Broncos received 1967 third round pick (#58-Mike Current) and 1967 fifth round pick (#110-Fran Lynch) from Miami Dolphins for Carlton Gilchrist / Cookie Gilchrist. The recorded outcome favors Denver Broncos.
Denver Broncos received Jerry Oliver from Miami Dolphins for 1967 twelfth round pick (#295-Jim Whitaker). The recorded outcome favors Denver Broncos.
Oakland/Las Vegas Raiders received 1967 eighth round pick (#188-Estes Banks) from Miami Dolphins for Bill Cronin. The recorded outcome does not show enough separation to identify a clear winner.
Buffalo Bills received Jack Spikes from Miami Dolphins for 1967 fifth round pick (#129-Gary Tucker). The recorded outcome favors Miami Dolphins.
Miami Dolphins received quarterback George Wilson Jr. from Buffalo Bills for the 1967 13th round pick that became No. 318 Howard Finley. Wilson played all 14 games for expansion Miami in 1966, started seven at quarterback, threw for 764 yards and five touchdowns, and also handled 42 punts. Finley never appeared in an NFL regular-season game. Miami received meaningful inaugural-season value, supporting a Miami Dolphins Win.
Miami Dolphins received rights to Billy Anderson from Houston Oilers/Tennessee Titans for Ron Caveness / Ronnie Caveness. The recorded outcome does not show enough separation to identify a clear winner.