Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Las Vegas moved down ten spots in the sixth round of the 2026 draft, sending No. 185 to Tampa Bay and receiving Nos. 195 and 229. The Raiders used those selections on wide receiver Malik Benson and defensive lineman Brandon Cleveland. Because both rookies are only beginning their NFL careers, the extra selection is attractive but the long-term value of the return remains unsettled.

Tampa Bay traded down seven spots in the third round on April 24, 2026, sending No. 77 to Green Bay for Nos. 84 and 160. The Buccaneers used No. 84 on wide receiver Ted Hurst III and No. 160 on guard Billy Schrauth. Hurst opened his rookie season as a starter and had five catches for 63 yards through Tampa Bay's first two games, while Schrauth had not yet recorded a regular-season appearance on the club's official stat page.

Tampa Bay traded Carlton Davis plus 2024 and 2025 sixth-round picks to Detroit for No. 92, which became Jalen McMillan. Davis gave the Lions a strong one-year starting corner during their 15-win 2024 season before leaving in free agency. McMillan scored eight touchdowns as a rookie, then lost much of 2025 to injury. Both teams received exactly the kind of value they sought, making an even grade more appropriate now.

Los Angeles traded down four spots in the fifth round on April 29, 2023, sending No. 171 to Tampa Bay for Nos. 175 and 252. The Rams selected tight end Davis Allen at No. 175, and by early 2026 he had appeared in 49 games with 12 starts, 42 catches, 362 yards and four touchdowns. Los Angeles later used No. 252 as part of another trade-up, so both pieces of the return retained value.

Tampa Bay sent its 2024 fifth-round pick to Philadelphia on April 29, 2023 for the 2023 sixth-round selection at No. 191 and used that pick on Trey Palmer. Palmer gave the Buccaneers 32 regular-season games, 11 starts, 51 catches, 557 yards and four touchdowns over 2023-24 before Tampa Bay waived him in August 2025. Philadelphia later included the 2024 pick, No. 161, in a larger trade-up package with Washington.

Tampa Bay moved up two spots in the second round on April 28, 2023, sending picks No. 50 and No. 179 to Green Bay for No. 48. The Buccaneers selected North Dakota State guard Cody Mauch, who immediately became a full-time starter and started all 34 regular-season games over his first two NFL seasons before an injury-shortened 2025. Tampa Bay obtained a legitimate starting lineman, but Green Bay turned the trade-down into two productive players.

Houston acquired veteran guard Shaq Mason and a 2023 seventh-round pick from Tampa Bay for the 179th selection. Mason immediately started all 17 games in 2023 and ultimately made 32 starts for the Texans across two seasons. Tampa Bay later sent pick No. 179 to Green Bay while moving up for Cody Mauch. The Buccaneers preserved draft value, but Mason's two seasons of starting play give Houston the win.

Indianapolis acquired linebacker Grant Stuard and a 2023 seventh-round pick from Tampa Bay for a 2023 sixth-rounder. The Buccaneers used the sixth on defensive back Josh Hayes, while the Colts' seventh became Jake Witt. Stuard developed into a valuable special-teams player who also handled defensive starts, and Hayes supplied Tampa Bay with special-teams and secondary depth. Both clubs turned late-round value into useful roster pieces.

Jacksonville sent 2022 picks Nos. 157 and 235 to Tampa Bay for the Buccaneers' 2023 fourth-round selection, which became No. 121 Ventrell Miller. Tampa Bay used No. 157 on cornerback Zyon McCollum and later moved No. 235. Both clubs produced usable players from the exchange, but the Buccaneers received two current picks and turned the higher one into a meaningful defensive contributor, giving Tampa Bay the stronger return.

Los Angeles traded pick No. 218 to Tampa Bay on April 30, 2022 for two seventh-round selections, Nos. 235 and 261. The Rams used them on edge defender Daniel Hardy and tackle A.J. Arcuri. Hardy appeared in six regular-season games for Los Angeles in 2022 without a start before later continuing his career elsewhere. Arcuri played 10 Rams games across 2022 and 2024 with one start. The two-pick return produced depth but little sustained role value.

Tampa Bay moved from No. 60 to No. 57 in the 2022 draft for tackle Luke Goedeke, sending Buffalo pick No. 180 as well. Goedeke became a durable Buccaneers starter, making Tampa's return strong. Buffalo then flipped No. 60 to Cincinnati and landed the pick used on James Cook, who led the NFL with 1,621 rushing yards in 2025. That downstream result gives Buffalo the larger payoff.

Jacksonville moved back into the first round in 2022 for linebacker Devin Lloyd, sending Tampa Bay picks No. 33, No. 106 and No. 180. Lloyd became a productive four-year starter and Pro Bowl player. Tampa Bay countered with defensive lineman Logan Hall and tight end Cade Otton, both durable multi-year contributors, plus another pick. The Buccaneers' depth of return narrowly exceeds Jacksonville's excellent single player.

Tampa Bay acquired veteran guard Shaq Mason from New England for the 170th pick in the 2022 draft. Mason started all 17 games for the Buccaneers during Tom Brady's final season and gave them needed stability after Ali Marpet retired. Tampa then traded Mason to Houston in 2023 and moved up from the seventh to the sixth round in the process. One strong starting season for a fifth-rounder makes the Buccaneers the winner.

Tampa Bay acquired veteran nose tackle Steve McLendon and a 2023 seventh-round pick from the Jets for a 2022 sixth-round selection. McLendon immediately joined a Buccaneers defense that finished the 2020 season by winning Super Bowl LV, giving Tampa useful veteran depth during a championship run. New York improved the timing and round of its draft asset, but the title-season contribution gives the Buccaneers the edge.

Tampa Bay traded up one spot from No. 14 to No. 13 in the 2020 draft, sending San Francisco pick 117 and receiving pick 245. The Buccaneers selected tackle Tristan Wirfs, who quickly became an elite offensive lineman and a foundational piece of their championship offense. San Francisco took Javon Kinlaw at 14 and later used the extra fourth-round capital in the move that produced Brandon Aiyuk, but Wirfs remains the defining value.

Tampa Bay acquired Rob Gronkowski and a seventh-round pick from New England for a fourth-round selection after Gronkowski came out of retirement to reunite with Tom Brady. Gronkowski delivered 1,425 receiving yards and 13 touchdowns over two regular seasons and caught two touchdowns in Tampa Bay's Super Bowl LV victory. New England used the fourth-round asset in a larger trade-up that produced Devin Asiasi and Justin Rohrwasser, neither of whom became a comparable contributor. Tampa Bay won overwhelmingly.

Pittsburgh sent Jerald Hawkins and a 2021 seventh-round pick to Tampa Bay for a 2021 sixth-round pick. The selections became Quincy Roche at No. 216 for Pittsburgh and Chris Wilcox at No. 251 for Tampa Bay. None of the principal returns produced enough sustained value to create meaningful separation, leaving the deal close to even.

Los Angeles sent picks No. 94 and No. 99 to Tampa Bay to climb to No. 70 for running back Darrell Henderson. Henderson became part of the Rams' backfield rotation and contributed during their Super Bowl LVI season, but the Buccaneers converted the two picks into Jamel Dean and Mike Edwards, two defenders who played meaningful roles on a championship roster.

Philadelphia reacquired DeSean Jackson and a 2020 seventh-round pick for a sixth-round selection. Jackson delivered explosive moments, including a huge opening game in 2019, but injuries limited his availability during both seasons of the reunion. Tampa Bay used the pick on Scotty Miller, who became a low-cost contributor on a championship team, giving the Buccaneers the slightly stronger realized return.

Minnesota sent pick No. 94 to Tampa Bay for Nos. 102 and 180. The Buccaneers used No. 94 on Alex Cappa, who developed into a starting right guard and played on the 2020 Super Bowl championship team. Minnesota drafted Jalyn Holmes at No. 102 and later moved No. 180 in another trade, but the resulting branch produced far less Vikings value than Cappa delivered in Tampa Bay.

Tampa Bay moved down seven spots in the second round, sending No. 56 to New England for Nos. 63 and 117. The Buccaneers selected Carlton Davis and Jordan Whitehead, two defensive starters who later played major roles on the 2020 Super Bowl championship team. New England used No. 56 on Duke Dawson, who never played a regular-season game for the Patriots before being traded to Denver.

Buffalo's trade up for Josh Allen became the move that ended the Bills' long quarterback search. The Buccaneers received a useful package and added real defensive talent, but Buffalo landed the franchise quarterback who turned the team into a perennial contender. That makes the Bills the clear winner. Tampa Bay got real value, but Buffalo got the quarterback who changed the franchise's ceiling.

Tampa Bay acquired Jason Pierre-Paul and pick No. 102 from the Giants for Nos. 69 and 108. Pierre-Paul immediately posted 12.5 sacks, later re-signed and became a central pass rusher on the 2020 Super Bowl champions. New York used No. 69 on B.J. Hill, who contributed for three seasons before being traded to Cincinnati, while Kyle Lauletta provided little. The Buccaneers received the clear premium impact.

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.

Tampa Bay sent picks No. 125 and 204 to the Jets to move up to No. 107 for linebacker Kendell Beckwith. Beckwith started nine games and made 73 tackles as a promising rookie, but a serious ankle injury suffered in a 2018 auto accident ultimately ended his NFL career. New York moved No. 125 again and selected Chad Hansen, Jeremy Clark and Derrick Jones from the resulting capital, receiving little lasting value.

Detroit acquired Johnthan Banks from Tampa Bay for a conditional 2018 seventh-round pick in November 2016, and the condition was not met, so the pick was never conveyed. Banks appeared in only two games for the Lions before being waived, which limits the upside. Still, Detroit received a no-cost roster look while Tampa Bay ultimately received no draft asset, giving the Lions a small but real win.

Tampa Bay traded Nos. 74 and 106 to Kansas City to move up for kicker Roberto Aguayo at No. 59. Aguayo made only 22 of 31 field goals as a rookie and was released before his second season. Kansas City got limited value from KeiVarae Russell but useful defensive-back snaps from Eric Murray. The Chiefs' return was modest; Tampa Bay's costly miss makes the verdict decisive.

Chicago moved from No. 11 to No. 9 for Leonard Floyd, sending Tampa Bay a fourth-round pick in the process. Floyd became a four-year Bears starter and produced 18.5 sacks before leaving in 2020. Tampa Bay selected Vernon Hargreaves at No. 11, but injuries and inconsistent play led to his release during the 2019 season. The Bears won the exchange, though Floyd's Chicago tenure was solid rather than franchise-changing.

The Raiders traded pick No. 124 to Tampa Bay for Nos. 128 and 218, then selected Jon Feliciano and Anthony Morris. Feliciano became a durable NFL lineman, though much of his eventual starting success came after leaving Oakland. Tampa Bay used No. 124 on linebacker Kwon Alexander, who started immediately, became the center of the Buccaneers defense and earned a Pro Bowl selection. Tampa Bay captured the greater team-specific value.

Tampa Bay moved from No. 65 to No. 61 and swapped fourth-round positions with Indianapolis to secure guard Ali Marpet. Marpet started all 101 games he played for the Buccaneers, became a Pro Bowler and helped anchor the offensive line for the Super Bowl LV champions. Indianapolis drafted D'Joun Smith and Clayton Geathers; Geathers became a useful safety, but Smith barely played. Tampa Bay landed the franchise-level player.

Tampa Bay sent safety Dashon Goldson and a 2016 seventh-round pick, No. 232, to Washington for a 2016 sixth-round pick, No. 197. The Buccaneers turned No. 197 into Danny Vitale, gaining younger draft capital and salary flexibility. Goldson nevertheless gave Washington the more useful immediate football return, so Tampa Bay's side grades as respectable but weaker in hindsight.

Tampa Bay acquired decorated guard Logan Mankins to stabilize a rebuilt offensive line, and Mankins gave the Buccaneers two seasons of durable starting play with two Pro Bowl selections before retiring. New England received tight end Tim Wright and a fourth-round pick that became Trey Flowers. Wright scored six touchdowns for the 2014 champions, while Flowers developed into a starting edge defender on two more Super Bowl-winning teams. Both sides benefited, but New England created the stronger long-term return.

Buffalo sent 2014 fifth-round No. 149 to Tampa Bay and received seventh-round No. 221 plus a 2015 fifth-round pick that became No. 137 before Buffalo traded it again. Tampa selected Kevin Pamphile at No. 149; Buffalo took Randell Johnson at No. 221. Later Matt Cassel and Grady Jarrett links are separate downstream moves, and Tampa's direct return proved stronger.

Buffalo acquired wide receiver Mike Williams from Tampa Bay for a single 2014 sixth-round pick, No. 185. Williams offered a familiar target with local ties but did not make a lasting impact for the Bills, limiting the practical value of the acquisition. Tampa Bay's draft return also produced little, so Buffalo's side fits a C grade rather than a directional win.

Baltimore acquired center Jeremy Zuttah for a 2015 fifth-round pick and received 41 starts over three seasons, including Pro Bowl recognition in 2016. Tampa Bay used the pick on receiver Kenny Bell, who never appeared in a regular-season game for the Buccaneers. The Ravens solved a starting-line need at a minimal draft cost, while Tampa Bay received virtually no on-field return.

Tampa Bay acquired former first-round offensive lineman Gabe Carimi from Chicago for a 2014 sixth-round pick. Carimi started only two games at left guard for the Buccaneers, spent most of the season as a reserve and was waived the following February. Chicago used pick No. 183 on quarterback David Fales, who also produced little meaningful Bears value. Both teams moved on quickly, leaving the exchange in even-trade territory.

Minnesota traded the 2013 No. 189 selection to Tampa Bay for picks No. 196 and No. 229. The Buccaneers used No. 189 on running back Mike James, while the Vikings selected guard Jeff Baca and defensive tackle Everett Dawkins. James produced the most meaningful NFL contribution of the three, including 351 rushing yards across his career. Minnesota's two-player return offered depth but very little sustained value.

The Raiders moved down twelve spots in the 2013 fourth round and added a sixth-rounder, turning the package into Tyler Wilson and Latavius Murray. Wilson washed out quickly, but Murray became a productive starting back and topped 1,000 rushing yards in 2015. Tampa Bay got four useful seasons from Akeem Spence, so this was not a rout, but Murray gives Oakland the stronger realized return.

New England acquired LeGarrette Blount from Tampa Bay during the 2013 draft for Jeff Demps and seventh-round pick No. 229. Blount became a major contributor across multiple Patriots seasons and playoff runs, including championship teams. The Buccaneers did not receive comparable value from Demps or the pick. New England turned a modest package into substantial production and earns a decisive hindsight win.

The Jets traded Darrelle Revis to Tampa Bay for the No. 13 pick in the 2013 draft and later pick value, turning an injured star cornerback with contract tension into Sheldon Richardson. Revis still made a Pro Bowl with the Buccaneers, but Tampa Bay went nowhere and moved on after one season. New York got the stronger asset result and avoided the contract trap.

Philadelphia acquired wide receiver Arrelious Benn and Tampa Bay’s 2013 seventh-round pick on March 14, sending back a sixth-rounder and a conditional 2014 choice. The Eagles used No. 218 on Jordan Poyer, but he played only three games for Philadelphia before being waived. Benn tore his ACL that August and never appeared in a regular-season game for the Eagles.

New England acquired Aqib Talib and 2013 pick No. 226 from Tampa Bay for 2013 pick No. 126. Talib immediately upgraded the Patriots' secondary, returned in 2013, made the Pro Bowl and helped New England reach consecutive AFC title games. Tampa Bay used No. 126 on William Gholston, who became a remarkably durable Buccaneers defensive lineman and later a Super Bowl champion. Elite short-term impact versus exceptional longevity makes this even.

Chicago acquired defensive tackle Brian Price for a future seventh-round pick, hoping a former second-round selection could strengthen the interior line. Price made it through the initial trade process but was waived before the 2012 regular season, so the Bears received no meaningful game value. The low acquisition cost limits the damage, but the player return never materialized.

Seattle acquired tight end Kellen Winslow from Tampa Bay in May 2012 for a 2013 conditional seventh-round pick that could have become a sixth-rounder. Seattle released Winslow before the regular season, and the Seahawks' own trade history says the conditions were not met, so Tampa Bay ultimately received no exercised selection from the deal.

Tampa Bay traded picks 68 and 126 to Houston for picks 58 and 233, then used No. 58 on Lavonte David. David became one of the defining defenders in Buccaneers history, earning All-Pro recognition and helping anchor the Super Bowl LV championship defense. Houston received DeVier Posey and Jared Crick, with Crick developing into a useful starter but neither approaching David's impact. The Buccaneers won the exchange by a wide margin.

Tampa Bay sent picks No. 36 and No. 101 to Denver for No. 31 and No. 126, using the first-rounder on Doug Martin. The fourth-rounder was then paired with another pick in a move that produced Lavonte David. Denver landed Derek Wolfe and Omar Bolden, with Wolfe becoming a championship starter. Both teams created value, but Martin plus the David trade chain gives Tampa Bay the higher ceiling.

Jacksonville moved from No. 7 to No. 5 in the 2012 draft to select Justin Blackmon, sending Tampa Bay the seventh pick and No. 101. Blackmon flashed star-level ability but played only 20 NFL games before repeated suspensions ended his Jaguars career. Tampa Bay still landed Mark Barron at No. 7 and used the extra fourth-round capital in a productive sequence of draft-day moves, giving the Buccaneers the stronger return.

Tampa Bay sent Philadelphia the 116th pick in 2011 and a 2012 fourth-rounder to move up 12 spots for tight end Luke Stocker. Stocker became a useful blocking tight end and spent seven seasons with the Buccaneers, but never developed into a major receiving weapon. Philadelphia got Casey Matthews at 116 and later used the 2012 fourth as part of the deal for linebacker DeMeco Ryans. The Eagles created the stronger overall return.

Kansas City sent defensive lineman Alex Magee and a 2011 sixth-round pick to Tampa Bay for a 2011 fifth-rounder. The Chiefs used the pick on quarterback Ricky Stanzi, who never appeared in a regular-season NFL game. Tampa Bay received eight games and two sacks from Magee, while sixth-rounder Allen Bradford appeared only briefly. The Buccaneers win narrowly because Magee supplied the only meaningful immediate production.

Denver sent a 2011 fifth-round pick to Tampa Bay for two seventh-round selections in the 2010 draft, Nos. 225 and 232. The Broncos used them on Syd'Quan Thompson and Jammie Kirlew, while the future fifth eventually became pick No. 135 and was later tied to Ricky Stanzi. Denver received two immediate roster chances for one future mid-round asset, and Thompson supplied enough useful play to give the Broncos a narrow edge.

Tampa Bay moved from No. 42 to No. 39 in 2010 for receiver Arrelious Benn, sending Oakland an additional fifth-round pick. Benn's career was derailed by injuries. Oakland turned No. 42 into picks 44 and 190, selecting Lamarr Houston and Travis Goethel, and used the fifth-round asset in the Kirk Morrison deal that helped produce Jacoby Ford. The Raiders converted the trade-down into substantially more value.

Pittsburgh Steelers received Byron Leftwich. Pittsburgh reacquired Byron Leftwich as experienced quarterback depth. He served a useful reserve role, but the move was not designed to produce a long-term starting return. Compared with Tampa Bay Buccaneers's return, the result supports a C+ grade and fits the Even Trade verdict.

Philadelphia received the 2011 sixth-round asset that became No. 184 and later used that exact asset in the transaction for guard Reggie Wells. Wells appeared in eight Eagles games and made one start in 2010. The return was modest, but Philadelphia successfully converted the acquired draft value into usable regular-season offensive-line depth rather than letting the asset disappear without contribution.

Chicago sent its 2010 second-round pick to Tampa Bay for defensive end Gaines Adams in October 2009. Adams played only 10 games for the Bears before his unexpected death in January 2010, an outcome no team could have foreseen. Tampa Bay later packaged the No. 42 pick with No. 153 to move up for Arrelious Benn, so the Buccaneers gained value without turning the deal into a franchise-changing haul.

Jacksonville acquired quarterback Luke McCown and received limited service from him. He provided veteran depth and some game action, but he did not become a lasting answer for the Jaguars. Because the seventh-round pick sent to Tampa Bay became Dekoda Watson, who played four seasons for the Buccaneers, Jacksonville ended up with the weaker return.

New England acquired tight end Alex Smith for a 2010 fifth-round pick, but Smith was released at final cuts and never played a regular-season game for the Patriots. Tampa Bay's pick became No. 153; the Buccaneers packaged it with No. 42 to move to No. 39 for Arrelious Benn. Benn started 24 games and caught 59 passes for 862 yards and five touchdowns for Tampa Bay, giving the Buccaneers the clear edge.

Tampa Bay moved from No. 120 to No. 117 for defensive end Kyle Moore, sending Dallas a seventh-round pick as the premium. Moore appeared in 15 games for the Buccaneers and started seven in 2010. Dallas selected Brandon Williams and Manuel Johnson; neither became a meaningful Cowboys contributor. The return was modest on both sides, but Tampa received more actual playing value from the player it targeted.

Tampa Bay moved from No. 19 to No. 17 and spent a sixth-round pick to secure quarterback Josh Freeman. Freeman gave the Buccaneers one excellent 2010 season and several years as the starter, but the relationship unraveled by 2013. Cleveland received No. 19 and No. 191, then moved down again and selected seven-time Pro Bowl center Alex Mack at No. 21. Mack's sustained elite play makes the Browns the stronger long-term winner.

Tampa Bay acquired Kellen Winslow from Cleveland for a 2009 second-round pick and a 2010 fifth-rounder. Winslow immediately set a Buccaneers single-season record for a tight end and produced 218 catches, 2,377 yards and 12 touchdowns over three seasons. Cleveland used the second-rounder on Mohamed Massaquoi and later moved the fifth-round pick, creating useful but less impactful value than Tampa received.

Pittsburgh traded center Sean Mahan to Tampa Bay on September 2, 2008 for the Buccaneers' 2009 seventh-round pick, No. 226. Tampa Bay used Mahan as interior-line depth for 21 regular-season games and four starts across 2008 and 2009. Pittsburgh used No. 226 on center A.Q. Shipley, but Shipley was waived before the 2009 regular season and never appeared in a regular-season game for the Steelers.

Chicago Bears received Dan Buenning from Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the 2008-09-02 trade. Chicago acquired guard Dan Buenning to add interior-line depth; his Bears tenure was short rather than a multi-year starting return. Tampa Bay Buccaneers's return was 2009 sixth round pick (#191-Coye Francies). Tampa Bay received the 2009 sixth-round pick and selected cornerback Coye Francies at No. 191. Those realized outcomes, rather than the labels on the assets alone, drive the hindsight grade.

Baltimore acquired veteran defensive lineman Marques Douglas for an undisclosed 2009 draft choice and a conditional 2010 selection. Douglas provided immediate roster value, while the exact downstream benefit of Tampa Bay's draft compensation is limited in the available record. The C grade reflects a reasonable veteran acquisition without enough separation to move this exchange beyond an Even Trade verdict.

Tampa Bay moved ahead five spots in the 2008 fourth round and added a sixth-round pick, selecting Dre Moore at No. 115 and Geno Hayes at No. 175. Chicago received picks 120 and 158, using them on Craig Steltz and Kellen Davis. Hayes became the best early contributor in the deal, but Chicago received useful depth from both selections, leaving the exchange relatively balanced.

New England traded picks No. 160 and No. 238 to Tampa Bay for No. 153 and selected Matthew Slater. Slater became one of the greatest special-teams players of his era, spending 16 seasons with the Patriots, winning three Super Bowls and earning 10 Pro Bowl selections. Tampa Bay drafted Josh Johnson and Cory Boyd; Johnson became a long-lived NFL backup, but his Buccaneers impact was modest and Boyd never played for Tampa Bay.

Jacksonville moved up from No. 58 to No. 52 for defensive end Quentin Groves, sending Tampa Bay an additional fifth-round pick and a 2009 seventh-rounder. Groves produced only 2.5 sacks in two Jaguars seasons. Tampa's direct second-round selection, Dexter Jackson, also disappointed, but the extra assets helped create Geno Hayes and E.J. Biggers, both useful Buccaneers defenders. Tampa produced much more total value.

Tampa Bay reacquired Brian Griese and Chicago’s 2009 seventh while sending Chicago a 2009 sixth. Griese started five Buccaneers games in 2008 and threw for 1,073 yards and five touchdowns. Chicago later sent the sixth back to Tampa Bay for Dan Buenning, who played 10 Bears games without a start. Tampa used the seventh as part of a move from No. 120 to No. 117 for Kyle Moore, who played 15 Buccaneers games with seven starts. The verdict is Tampa Bay Buccaneers Win.

Tampa Bay acquired Michael Bennett plus the return of its conditional 2009 seventh-round pick, while Kansas City received Tampa Bay’s 2008 sixth-rounder. Bennett gave the Buccaneers 13 games across 2007-08, including 201 rushing yards and two total touchdowns in 2007. Tampa later moved the restored seventh-rounder, while Kansas City moved No. 187 to Minnesota in the Jared Allen deal, making the realized package specific: a 2008 sixth-rounder to Kansas City and a returned 2009 seventh-rounder to Tampa Bay.

New York Jets traded Jerry Mackey to Tampa Bay on August 21, 2007, for an undisclosed future draft pick. The return cannot responsibly be assigned a year, round, condition, or eventual selection from the available evidence, but it was definitely not a 2007 fifth-rounder because that draft had already occurred. With no proven major payoff, New York receives a C-.

Tampa Bay acquired defensive tackle Ryan Sims from Kansas City in May 2007 for a conditional 2009 seventh-round pick. The condition was tied to Sims spending at least six games on the Buccaneers' active roster in 2008 and was satisfied. Kansas City later returned the right to that pick to Tampa Bay in the Michael Bennett trade, while Sims appeared in 46 games and made 19 starts for the Buccaneers from 2007 through 2010.

Minnesota moved up only four spots in the fourth round, paying a sixth-round pick to secure Brian Robison at No. 102. Robison became an eleven-year Viking, played 173 games, and recorded 60 sacks while filling starting and rotational roles across multiple defensive eras. That is exceptional return from a small draft-day move. Tampa Bay found two legitimate contributors after moving down, but Minnesota secured the single player with the greater longevity and cumulative impact.

Denver traded Jake Plummer's rights to Tampa Bay on March 3, 2007 for a conditional 2008 draft choice. Plummer never reported to Tampa Bay, so the condition settled as the Buccaneers' 2008 seventh-round pick, No. 227. Denver used that selection on Peyton Hillis, who became a useful rookie contributor. Tampa Bay never received an on-field contribution from Plummer.

Indianapolis acquired defensive tackle Anthony McFarland from Tampa Bay at the 2006 trade deadline for a 2007 second-round pick. McFarland stepped into the Colts defense and helped the club finish its run to a Super Bowl XLI championship. Tampa Bay used No. 64 on safety Sabby Piscitelli, who started 20 games for the Buccaneers, giving both sides real value.

New York received the 2007 sixth-round selection used on Jacob Bender. Bender appeared in only two games for the Jets, so the draft return produced very little direct on-field value. The stored extra Jacob Bender player entry represents the same player already captured by the pick and is removed, leaving the sixth-round selection as the Jets' complete supported return.

San Francisco received the 2006 sixth-round choice used on Marcus Hudson. Hudson became a multi-season defensive back and special-teams contributor, giving the 49ers useful service from a late selection. The package is kept as one pick asset because the selected player is already represented inside that pick. That result supports a B- grade within the San Francisco 49ers Win verdict.

St. Louis moved up 11 spots in the fifth round on April 24, 2005, sending Tampa Bay picks No. 155 and No. 231 for No. 144. The Rams selected Notre Dame tight end Jerome Collins, who appeared in only three regular-season games as a rookie without a start, reception or rushing attempt. Collins never played another NFL regular-season game, leaving St. Louis with only a brief reserve contribution from the trade-up.

Tampa Bay sent the 203rd pick in the 2005 draft to Cleveland for second-year quarterback Luke McCown. McCown became a multi-year Buccaneers backup and made several starts, including a productive three-start stretch in 2007. Cleveland used the pick on defensive tackle Andrew Hoffman, who never played a regular-season NFL game, so Tampa Bay clearly received the only meaningful football value.

San Diego acquired Keenan McCardell from Tampa Bay during the 2004 season for 2005 third- and sixth-round picks. McCardell immediately strengthened a rising Chargers offense and followed with a 917-yard, nine-touchdown season in 2005. Tampa Bay used the third-rounder on Chris Colmer and later traded the sixth-rounder for quarterback Luke McCown. The Buccaneers recovered some value, but McCardell’s production made San Diego the clear winner.

New York Giants received Jason Whittle from Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the 2004-08-31 trade. New York acquired Jason Whittle, who returned to the Giants and started all 16 games in 2004, then appeared in 14 more games in 2005. Tampa Bay Buccaneers's return was 2005 7th round pick (225th overall, Paris Warren), 2006 6th round pick (194th overall, Bruce Gradkowski). Tampa Bay turned the draft assets into Paris Warren and Bruce Gradkowski. Those realized outcomes, rather than the labels on the assets alone, drive the hindsight grade.

San Diego acquired veteran left tackle Roman Oben from Tampa Bay in June 2004 for a 2005 fifth-round pick. Oben became an immediate starter on a Chargers team that surged into contention and remained an important offensive lineman into the following seasons. Tampa Bay later traded the acquired pick for Nos. 155 and 231, selecting Larry Brackins and Hamza Abdullah. The extra choices offered some value, but Oben’s starting impact gives San Diego the win.

Tampa Bay moved up 10 spots in the seventh round of the 2004 draft, sending fullback Darian Barnes and pick No. 216 to Dallas for No. 206. The Buccaneers selected Mark Jones, who did not make their initial roster and later returned as a return specialist. Dallas selected Patrick Crayton, who became a productive six-year Cowboys receiver, making the Cowboys the clear winner of a low-cost draft-day exchange.

Tampa Bay and Dallas swapped veteran receivers in March 2004, with Joey Galloway joining the Buccaneers and Keyshawn Johnson reuniting with Bill Parcells in Dallas. Johnson gave the Cowboys two productive seasons, so Dallas received legitimate value. Galloway, however, stayed in Tampa for five years and delivered three consecutive 1,000-yard seasons from 2005 through 2007. His longer, more explosive run makes the Buccaneers the winner.

Dallas Cowboys received a conditional 2005 pick (not conveyed). Dallas' return was conditional on a future 2005 draft choice. Those receiving-team outcomes support a D- grade. Tampa Bay Buccaneers held the counterparty return, and the transaction-level verdict is Even Trade. The grade remains tied to documented value for the acquiring club, without assigning credit for unresolved or hypothetical downstream consideration.

Tampa Bay acquired running back Thomas Jones from Arizona in June 2003 for wide receiver Marquise Walker. Jones rushed for 627 yards at 4.6 yards per carry in his lone Buccaneers season, then went on to a long, productive career elsewhere. Walker never played a regular-season game for Arizona. Tampa Bay therefore received meaningful immediate production for a player who produced no Cardinals return, making the Buccaneers the clear winner.

Indianapolis Colts received David Gibson. David Gibson started nine games for Indianapolis in 2002 and gave the Colts immediate secondary help. That short-term starting contribution exceeded the value Tampa Bay ultimately realized from the future pick. Compared with Tampa Bay Buccaneers' return, the result supports a B+ grade and fits the Indianapolis Colts Win verdict.

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.

The Jets received Jonathan Pittman in the April 2002 swap but did not carry him into the regular season. Because Pittman failed to provide game value for New York, the club gained no lasting advantage from moving David Leaverton. The deal was small and neither acquired player stuck, so the Jets receive a C- rather than a harsher grade.

Buffalo moved down from No. 14 to No. 21 in the 2001 first round and added Tampa Bay's second-round pick. The Bills still landed cornerback Nate Clements, who became a Pro Bowler and intercepted 23 passes in six Buffalo seasons. They then flipped the added No. 51 selection to Denver for picks used on Travis Henry and Brandon Spoon. Tampa Bay used No. 14 on long-time starting tackle Kenyatta Walker.

Atlanta Falcons received Eric Zeier. Eric Zeier did not create meaningful regular-season value for Atlanta after the deal, leaving the Falcons with little on-field return from the veteran quarterback acquisition. Compared with Tampa Bay Buccaneers' return, the result supports a C- grade and fits the Even Trade verdict.

Tampa Bay moved from No. 57 to No. 51 and selected guard Cosey Coleman, sending Carolina the 57th and 120th picks. Coleman became a 92-start NFL lineman and a Super Bowl champion. Carolina drafted safety Deon Grant and defensive lineman Alvin McKinley; Grant developed into a long-term starter, while McKinley added depth. Both sides found real value, but Coleman’s sustained Tampa Bay role gives the Buccaneers a narrow edge.

Tampa Bay acquired Keyshawn Johnson from the Jets for two 2000 first-round picks, Nos. 13 and 27. Johnson became a Pro Bowler in Tampa, topped 1,200 receiving yards in 2001 and contributed to the Buccaneers' Super Bowl XXXVII championship. New York used the selections on John Abraham, a four-time Pro Bowler as a Jet, and Anthony Becht, a five-year starting tight end, giving the Jets greater long-term value.

Jacksonville acquired defensive end Regan Upshaw from Tampa Bay on October 19, 1999 for a 2001 sixth-round pick, later No. 174 Jameel Cook. Cook was the eventual use of the pick, not a second player directly traded in 1999. Upshaw appeared in only six games for Jacksonville, leaving the Jaguars with very little realized value.

Jacksonville moved up from No. 195 in the 1999 draft, also sending No. 233 to Tampa Bay, and received No. 182. The Jaguars used that selection on defensive tackle Emarlos Leroy, who appeared in 22 games over two seasons for Jacksonville. Tampa Bay received Lamarr Glenn and Autry Denson with the two picks. The Jaguars turned the trade into the clearest NFL contribution, giving them the hindsight edge.

Baltimore Ravens received 1999 6th round pick (185th overall subsequently traded, Talance Sawyer) in the 1999-04-17 exchange with Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Baltimore moved the acquired No. 185 pick to Minnesota for veteran lineman Everett Lindsay, who started all sixteen games for the Ravens in 1999. Against Tampa Bay Buccaneers' return of Eric Zeier, that outcome supports a B grade. The transaction is judged Baltimore Ravens Win, with the mark tied to the football value that actually followed from the deal.

Baltimore sent pick No. 104 to Tampa Bay in 1998 for a 1999 third-round selection. The Ravens later packaged that future third in the trade for quarterback Scott Mitchell, who spent only one season in Baltimore. Tampa Bay used No. 104 on Todd Washington, a reserve interior lineman who provided several seasons of roster value. The exchange stayed modest, with a slight hindsight edge to Tampa Bay.

Tampa Bay's 1998 media guide dates the Melvin Johnson trade to April 19, not April 20, and the return is traceable as a conditional 1999 sixth-round pick, No. 182. Kansas City received only seven games, one start and one sack from Johnson. Tampa Bay later traded No. 182 for picks No. 195 and No. 233, but neither resulting selection produced Buccaneers regular-season value. The small returns leave this essentially even.

Atlanta moved down from No. 45 to No. 53 in the 1998 draft and added pick No. 114. The Falcons selected guard Bob Hallen and returner-receiver Tim Dwight, both of whom became useful long-term NFL contributors. Dwight later became part of the trade package for Michael Vick. Tampa Bay used No. 45 on Brian Kelly, an important championship-era cornerback.

Los Angeles/San Diego Chargers San Diego received the 1998 second-round pick at No. 59 and used it on Mikhael Ricks. Ricks supplied useful receiving production, so the Chargers did obtain real value from the exchange. The supported hindsight grade is B-. That mark weighs only value tied directly to this transaction and keeps the result proportional to the deal's cost. Against Tampa Bay Buccaneers, the final verdict is Tampa Bay Buccaneers Win.

Oakland moved from two second-round picks to No. 23 in the 1998 draft and selected offensive lineman Mo Collins. Tampa Bay received Nos. 34 and 59, used the first on Jacquez Green and flipped the second to San Diego for a 2000 first-rounder. Collins became a useful Raiders starter, but the Buccaneers created more total value by turning the deal into Green plus premium future capital.

Tampa Bay acquired fullback Lorenzo Neal from the Jets for the 146th pick in the 1998 draft. Neal spent only one season with the Buccaneers, but he played all 16 games and remained a useful blocking specialist before continuing a long, decorated career elsewhere. New York used the fifth-rounder on Blake Spence, whose NFL career totaled 18 games and four receptions.

Baltimore acquired running back Errict Rhett from Tampa Bay for a 1999 third-round pick. Rhett gave the Ravens two seasons, including 852 rushing yards and five touchdowns in 1999. Tampa Bay did not simply keep the future pick; it later sent the same selection back to Baltimore for a 1998 fourth-rounder. Both clubs extracted usable value, leaving the original exchange close to even.

Seattle moved from No. 12 to No. 6 in the 1997 draft, sending Tampa Bay the 12th pick and No. 63 for the choice used on Walter Jones. Jones became a Hall of Fame left tackle and started all 180 games of his career. Tampa Bay also did extremely well, landing Warrick Dunn and Frank Middleton, but Seattle secured the best player in the deal.

Tampa Bay moved from No. 8 to No. 6 in the 1997 draft by sending the Jets a fourth-round pick. The Buccaneers immediately flipped No. 6 to Seattle for picks 12 and 63, selecting Warrick Dunn and adding capital used on Frank Middleton. New York drafted James Farrior and Leon Johnson. Both teams gained useful players, but Tampa Bay's two-step maneuver created the stronger return.

Tampa Bay sent the 41st pick in the 1996 draft to San Diego and received the Chargers’ 1997 first-round selection. San Diego used No. 41 on receiver Bryan Still, while Tampa Bay’s future pick landed at No. 16 and became receiver Reidel Anthony. Neither player became a star, but Anthony produced more as an NFL receiver and the Buccaneers successfully turned a second-rounder into a future first. That asset gain gives Tampa Bay the edge.

Tampa Bay sent defensive lineman Marc Spindler and receiver Charles Wilson to the Jets for a 1996 fourth-round pick, then selected tackle Jason Odom at No. 96. Odom started 41 of 46 NFL games. New York received useful immediate help: Wilson caught 41 passes for 484 yards and four touchdowns in 1995, while Spindler played two Jets seasons. Tampa's longer starting-tackle return earns a narrow edge.

Tampa Bay traded quarterback Craig Erickson to Indianapolis on April 27, 1995 for the Colts’ 1996 first-round pick. Erickson played only six games and made three starts for Indianapolis before moving on. The future pick landed at No. 22, where Tampa Bay selected defensive lineman Marcus Jones. Jones spent seven seasons with the Buccaneers and posted 13 sacks in 2000. Turning a short-term quarterback into a first-round starter gave Tampa Bay the clear advantage.

Philadelphia moved from No. 12 to No. 7 in the 1995 draft for defensive end Mike Mamula, sending Tampa Bay picks 12, 43 and 63 while also receiving pick 72. Mamula became a respectable starter and recorded 31.5 sacks, but Tampa Bay used No. 12 on Hall of Famer Warren Sapp and later used No. 63 in the move for Derrick Brooks. The Buccaneers turned the trade into the foundation of a championship defense.

Tampa Bay sent Dallas the 41st and 63rd picks in the 1995 draft to acquire No. 28, where the Buccaneers selected linebacker Derrick Brooks. Dallas later moved No. 41 and used the resulting capital on additional players, but nothing in the Cowboys’ return approached Brooks’ impact. Brooks became an 11-time Pro Bowler, Defensive Player of the Year, Super Bowl champion and Hall of Famer. Acquiring a franchise legend for two second-round picks makes Tampa Bay the decisive winner.

Kansas City acquired defensive back Darren Anderson from Tampa Bay on August 23, 1994, for a 1995 seventh-round pick. Anderson stayed with the Chiefs for four seasons, appearing in 53 games and contributing on defense and special teams. Tampa Bay used the No. 227 choice on Jeff Rodgers, who did not become an NFL regular. Kansas City clearly received the better football return.

Tampa Bay acquired safety Thomas Everett from Dallas on April 5, 1994, for the 109th pick in that year's draft. Everett gave the Buccaneers two seasons of veteran secondary play and started 10 games in 1995. Dallas used No. 109 on receiver Willie Jackson, but he did not become a meaningful long-term Cowboys contributor. Tampa Bay's direct on-field return gives it the edge.

On 1993-06-02, Cleveland Browns received past considerations (details not identified), while Tampa Bay Buccaneers received Rick Trumbull. The final verdict is Even Trade, with Cleveland Browns graded C and Tampa Bay Buccaneers graded C. The hindsight view follows the documented consideration and later traceable value without treating every named pick outcome as if it had been directly exchanged on trade day. Any conditional, undisclosed, or unidentified component is credited only to the extent that the surviving evidence establishes it.

San Diego moved from No. 82 to No. 64 in the 1993 draft and selected guard Joe Cocozzo, sending Tampa Bay picks No. 82 and No. 104. Cocozzo became a legitimate NFL starter, playing 77 games with 48 starts for the Chargers. Tampa Bay, however, used the two incoming selections on John Lynch and Horace Copeland, giving the Buccaneers a far larger combined return.

Tampa Bay sent defensive lineman Reuben Davis to Arizona on October 13, 1992, for a 1993 third-round pick that became No. 60 and Lamar Thomas. Davis then played 27 games for the Cardinals with 20 starts over the next two seasons. Thomas appeared in 36 Tampa Bay games but started only twice and caught 25 passes, giving Arizona the stronger direct return.

San Diego acquired linebacker Kevin Murphy from Tampa Bay for a 1993 eighth-round pick that became No. 220, Darrick Branch. Murphy appeared in 14 games for the Chargers in 1992, while Branch never played an NFL regular-season game for Tampa Bay. Neither return became a franchise piece, but San Diego received actual defensive snaps from a late-summer trade whose draft cost produced no NFL contribution for the Buccaneers.

Dallas sent Garry Lewis to Tampa Bay, and the compensation ultimately became an exchange of final-round 1993 selections after the draft was reduced to eight rounds. Dallas received No. 203 and selected Dave Thomas; Tampa Bay received No. 224 and selected Daron Alcorn while also holding Lewis. None became a major long-term piece. Dallas receives a narrow advantage because Thomas provided the strongest realized value among the exchanged assets.

The Raiders moved up to No. 32 in the 1992 draft for tackle Greg Skrepenak, while Tampa Bay received Nos. 44, 72 and 184. Skrepenak started 24 games for the Raiders, but Courtney Hawkins became a productive Buccaneers receiver and the broader three-pick return gave Tampa Bay substantially more usable value over the life of the deal.

Tampa Bay acquired picks No. 148 and No. 222 from Cleveland in the 1992 draft and used them on James Malone and Mike Pawlawski. Cleveland moved to No. 143 and selected Rico Smith. Malone and Pawlawski did not become meaningful NFL contributors, while Smith played 29 NFL games and supplied the only notable team value from the exchange. Cleveland therefore wins the previously even-rated trade.

New Orleans moved up from No. 79 to No. 72 in the 1992 draft, sending Tampa Bay an additional fifth-round pick at No. 118. The Saints selected Tyrone Legette, while the Buccaneers took Tyji Armstrong and Rogerick Green. Legette became useful depth, but Armstrong supplied more sustained Tampa Bay production, giving the Buccaneers a narrow win rather than an even result.

Minnesota acquired Tampa Bay's 1992 ninth-round pick for defensive back Jimmy Williams and used No. 227 on quarterback Brad Johnson. Williams gave the Buccaneers useful short-term defensive work, but Johnson became a significant Vikings quarterback and later remained a valuable NFL asset. Minnesota's direct years of starting quarterback play from such a low-cost selection make this a decisive Vikings win.

Denver Broncos received 1992 seventh round pick (#170-Ron Geater). Denver received Tampa Bay's 1992 seventh-round choice and used No. 170 on Ron Geater. Geater appeared in only three NFL games, so the pick produced very little direct value. Denver still came out ahead because Ricky Nattiel never delivered regular-season value for Tampa Bay, but the return was modest and fits a restrained positive grade. That result supports a C grade for Denver Broncos.

New England traded linebacker Jesse Solomon to Tampa Bay on September 18, 1991 for the Buccaneers' 1992 fifth-round pick. The selection became No. 116, which the Patriots used on Dwayne Sabb. Solomon had only recently arrived in New England from Dallas, but that earlier deal was separate. Tampa Bay obtained immediate linebacker help, while New England turned a short stay into a mid-round pick and receives the slight edge.

Kansas City acquired veteran linebacker Ervin Randle from Tampa Bay near the end of the 1991 preseason for a 1992 fifth-round selection. Randle supplied only short-term Chiefs depth, while Tampa Bay used the future choice at No. 132 on defensive lineman Santana Dotson. Dotson became a four-year Buccaneers starter and productive pass rusher, giving the future draft asset considerably more sustained team value than Randle provided in Kansas City.

The Raiders acquired linebacker Winston Moss from Tampa Bay shortly before the 1991 draft, sending the Buccaneers third- and fifth-round selections. Moss immediately became a full-time starter in Los Angeles and started 62 of 63 games across four Raiders seasons. Tampa Bay's choices, Robert Wilson and Tim Ryan, did not approach that sustained defensive value.

New Orleans acquired defensive tackle Robert 'Pig' Goff from Tampa Bay for a 1991 tenth-round pick that became No. 265, Hyland Hickson. Goff spent six seasons with the Saints, appearing in 89 regular-season games and contributing to their defensive front. Hickson never played an NFL regular-season game. The exchange became a strong New Orleans win because a late pick produced years of useful defensive service.

Cincinnati and Tampa Bay completed a straight player swap on September 1, 1990, with the Bengals acquiring cornerback Rod Jones and the Buccaneers receiving defensive end Jim Skow. Jones contributed immediately in Cincinnati's secondary, recording 46 tackles in his first Bengals season and later assuming a larger starting role. Skow gave Tampa Bay veteran defensive-line experience, providing useful service on the other side.

Tampa Bay acquired quarterback Chris Chandler from Indianapolis in July 1990 and surrendered its 1992 first-round pick. The choice became No. 2 overall, where the Colts selected linebacker Quentin Coryatt. Chandler's Buccaneers stint was brief and unsuccessful, while Coryatt became a six-year Indianapolis starter, creating a severe value gap in the Colts' favor.

Tampa Bay acquired running back Gary Anderson from San Diego for a 1990 third-round pick and a conditional 1991 second-round choice that transferred after Anderson remained with the Buccaneers. The picks became Jeff Mills at No. 57 and Eric Bieniemy at No. 39. Anderson immediately produced 1,110 yards from scrimmage in 1990 and remained useful for several seasons, narrowly outweighing the Chargers' solid draft return.

Denver acquired Ron Holmes in September 1989 and received immediate pass-rush help. Holmes recorded nine sacks during a season that ended with the Broncos reaching the Super Bowl, so the trade delivered meaningful short-term value. The B grade recognizes that contribution while also acknowledging that Tampa Bay's eventual return, Tony Mayberry, became the more durable and decorated long-term asset.

The Rams sent three late 1989 draft choices to Tampa Bay on April 24, 1989 - picks No. 290, No. 302 and No. 329 - for the Buccaneers' 1990 eighth-round pick. Tampa selected Willie Griffin, Herb Duncan and Terry Young, while Los Angeles later used No. 198 on Ray Savage. None developed into a meaningful long-term contributor for the acquiring club.

Tampa Bay acquired veteran receiver Stephen Starring from New England in August 1988 for a 1989 third-round pick. Starring lasted only six games with the Buccaneers and caught three passes for 75 yards before finishing the season in Detroit. New England used the pick, No. 63, on tight end Marv Cook, who became a multi-year starter and an 82-catch receiver in 1991.

San Diego/Los Angeles Chargers received conditional draft pick (selection not identified) from Tampa Bay Buccaneers, while Tampa Bay Buccaneers received Al Williams in the 1988-08-10 deal. Tampa Bay acquired Al Williams while the Chargers received a conditional draft choice whose final selection is not identified; the limited player impact and uncertain pick outcome support an even grade. The final grades are C for San Diego/Los Angeles Chargers and C for Tampa Bay Buccaneers, producing a verdict of Even Trade.

Buffalo Bills received 1989 seventh round pick (#173-Brian Jordan) in the 1988-06-13 exchange with Tampa Bay Buccaneers, giving up Eugene Marve. Buffalo converted Eugene Marve into a 1989 seventh-round selection, No. 173, used on Brian Jordan. That return supports a C grade for Buffalo Bills. The final verdict is Even Trade, based on the football value tied directly to the assets in this deal.

Seattle acquired tackle Ron Heller from Tampa Bay in May 1988 for nose tackle Randy Edwards and a 1989 sixth-round pick, No. 154 Derrick Little. Heller never played a regular-season game for Seattle, but the Seahawks flipped him in August to Philadelphia for a 1989 fourth-round pick, No. 103, turning the acquisition into better draft capital.

Tampa Bay acquired veteran quarterback Joe Ferguson from Indianapolis in April 1988 for a 1989 twelfth-round pick, No. 314 William DuBose. Ferguson gave the Buccaneers experienced quarterback depth during the 1988 and 1989 seasons. Because the acquisition cost was extremely late draft capital, Tampa Bay receives a small edge even though the move never became a major success.

San Francisco moved up to pick No. 39 in the 1988 draft and selected defensive lineman Pierce Holt, sending Tampa Bay picks No. 53 and No. 107. Holt became a long-term NFL starter and finished his career with 37 sacks, including productive seasons for the 49ers. Tampa used its selections on running back Lars Tate and punter Monte Robbins. Tate contributed, but Holt's sustained defensive value gave San Francisco the stronger return.

Philadelphia moved from No. 39 to No. 30 in the second round and selected cornerback Eric Allen, sending Tampa Bay the 39th and 83rd choices. Allen became a six-time Pro Bowler, first-team All-Pro and eventual Pro Football Hall of Famer, starting 110 games for the Eagles and intercepting 34 passes for Philadelphia. The move up produced a franchise-level defensive star.

Kansas City acquired veteran quarterback Steve DeBerg from Tampa Bay on March 31, 1988, sending safety Mark Robinson and 1988 fourth- and eighth-round selections to the Buccaneers. DeBerg became the Chiefs' primary starter for much of the next four seasons and delivered an excellent 1990 campaign, giving Kansas City substantially more immediate and sustained value from the exchange.

Atlanta Falcons received 1988 conditional sixth round pick (#140-Houston Hoover) in the exchange with Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Atlanta used the conditional pick on Hoover, who started 72 games for the Falcons across five seasons. The selection became a long-term starting offensive lineman from a very modest transaction. The A+ grade reflects the direct value Atlanta Falcons realized from the deal, while the Atlanta Falcons Win call weighs actual regular-season service and clearly connected draft value rather than name recognition alone.

Tampa Bay acquired running back Jeff Smith from Kansas City on September 3, 1987, for an eighth-round pick in the 1988 draft. Smith gave the Buccaneers two seasons of offensive depth, including 309 rushing yards and four total touchdowns in 1987. Kansas City retained value through the future pick, which later became part of the Steve DeBerg trade. Both clubs turned a modest asset into something useful.

Pittsburgh traded safety Rick Woods to Tampa Bay on September 1, 1987 for the Buccaneers' 1988 tenth-round selection. The pick became No. 252, John Jackson. Tampa Bay received immediate secondary depth, while Pittsburgh converted Woods into a later selection that produced a long-term offensive lineman. That durable return gives the Steelers a clear advantage from a modest-cost transaction.

Atlanta sent Keith Williams to Tampa Bay in August 1987 for a 1988 draft choice whose exact selection is not established in the available sources. The transaction itself and the class of compensation are supported, but neither side produced a clearly documented major payoff. With the pick identity unresolved and Williams providing limited known impact, an even grade is the cautious result.

Tampa Bay acquired offensive lineman Darryl Haley from New England on July 27, 1987 for a 1988 fourth-round pick. Patriots historical material links the return to No. 87, Tim Goad, but another New England source attributes that same slot to a different prior pick exchange, so the exact downstream identity remains disputed. The direct fourth-round compensation is secure, and New England holds a slight value edge.

Buffalo moved up seven spots in the second round of the 1987 draft to select cornerback Nate Odomes at No. 29, sending Tampa Bay No. 36 and a fourth-round choice. Odomes started 107 regular-season games for the Bills, earned two Pro Bowl selections, and became a key member of Buffalo's Super Bowl defenses. The move-up delivered exactly the kind of long-term starter Buffalo targeted.

San Francisco acquired Steve Young from Tampa Bay for a second-round pick, a fourth-round pick, and cash, then had the luxury of developing him behind Joe Montana. Young eventually became a league MVP, a Super Bowl-winning starter, and a Hall of Famer, giving the 49ers one of the greatest quarterback succession outcomes in NFL history. The modest acquisition cost compared with Young's eventual peak makes this an overwhelming San Francisco win.

Tampa Bay acquired New England's fifth-round pick in 1987 and selected linebacker Henry Rolling at No. 135, sending the Patriots a 1988 fourth-round choice. That future pick became No. 87, Tim Goad. Rolling gave Tampa Bay only limited reserve work, while Goad immediately became a Patriots starter and remained a major part of New England's defensive front through 1994.

Pittsburgh Steelers received 1987 sixth round pick (#141-Tim Johnson) from Tampa Bay Buccaneers. The acquired sixth-round choice became Tim Johnson, who started 26 games in 1988 and 1989 and recorded 8.5 sacks across those two seasons. That realized return supports a B grade for Pittsburgh Steelers. The final verdict is Pittsburgh Steelers Win, based on the regular-season service and draft value each club actually received after the exchange.

San Francisco acquired defensive lineman Keith Browner from Tampa Bay for a 1988 sixth-round selection, No. 163, which became Shawn Lee. Browner gave the 49ers an experienced defensive option at a low acquisition cost, while Tampa Bay converted him into a legitimate draft choice. Lee later had a substantial NFL career, though much of it came away from the Buccaneers. The immediate transaction still tilts slightly toward San Francisco.

Tampa Bay traded guard Sean Farrell to New England on February 4, 1987 for the Patriots' second-, seventh-, and ninth-round selections. The Buccaneers used those picks on Don Smith, Harry Swayne, and Greg Davis. Farrell then started regularly for New England for three seasons, while Tampa Bay's three-player return produced mixed results. The final value lands close to even.

The Chargers acquired the rights to Andy Hawkins from Tampa Bay in exchange for the 1987 sixth-round pick later used on Steve Bartalo. The supported transaction date is August 20, 1986. Hawkins appeared in 12 games with one start for San Diego, giving the Chargers some value but not enough to create a decisive advantage. A C grade fits that limited contribution.

Arizona Cardinals received Rick DiBernardo from Tampa Bay Buccaneers, sending 1987 twelfth round pick (#313-Mike Shula) the other way. Louis with a full 1986 season, while Shula did not produce NFL playing value, making the Cardinals' side modestly better in hindsight. That outcome supports a B- grade for Arizona Cardinals, and the overall verdict is Arizona Cardinals Win.

Indianapolis Colts received John Holt from Tampa Bay Buccaneers, giving up 1987 eighth round pick (#197-Stan Mataele). The eighth-round return is specifically 1987 selection No. 197. The return supports a B grade because the value directly tied to this deal fits that mark. The final verdict is Indianapolis Colts Win.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers received 1987 fifth round pick (#137-Tony Mayes) from Washington Commanders, sending rights to Doug Williams the other way. The current '(Lee)' suffix is unsupported and should be removed. That outcome supports a D grade for Tampa Bay Buccaneers, and the overall verdict is Washington Commanders Win.

New York's conditional return did convey because Marvin Powell made Tampa Bay's roster, producing the 1987 eighth-round pick used on Eddie Hunter. Hunter started all three Jets games he played, rushing 48 times for 169 yards and adding five catches for 24 yards and two touchdowns. Powell gave Tampa Bay nine games and seven starts across 1986-87. Both clubs received short, usable stints, so C/C and Even Trade remain appropriate.

San Diego sent Jesse Bendross to Tampa Bay for a 1987 twelfth-round return, but neither side ultimately produced regular-season value from the exchange. Tampa Bay released Bendross before the 1986 season, and the 1987 draft ledger shows the Buccaneers retained their own No. 308 selection while the Chargers used only their native No. 310 slot in round 12. C grades for both teams and an Even Trade verdict fit the realized outcome.

New England received Tampa Bay's 1987 fifth-round pick, No. 116, and selected Tom Gibson. Gibson never played a regular-season game for the Patriots, limiting the realized value of a pick that initially carried the higher round. That asset makes the transaction coherent, but the lack of on-field return leaves New England at D+ in hindsight.

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.

New Orleans moved defensive back David Greenwood to Tampa Bay on August 30, 1985 and received a 1986 third-round pick, No. 57 overall. That pick became Rueben Mayes, who won Offensive Rookie of the Year, made two Pro Bowls and rushed for 3,484 yards as a Saint. The long-term return clearly outweighed Greenwood’s useful but brief Tampa Bay stint.

San Francisco acquired Jim Leonard and received nine games of service from him in 1985. The contribution was modest, but it was real regular-season value from a late-round transaction. Because Tampa Bay's acquired twelfth-round selection became Mike Crawford, who produced no regular-season Buccaneers value, the 49ers finished slightly ahead.

Los Angeles Rams received 1986 eighth round pick (#195-Steve Jarecki) in the deal with Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Los Angeles used the eighth-round selection on Steve Jarecki, who did not provide comparable NFL value. The Rams recovered draft capital, but the selected player's direct return was limited. That outcome supports a D for Los Angeles Rams. The Tampa Bay Buccaneers Win verdict weighs documented games, starts, production and connected draft value.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers received Anthony Washington, while Washington Commanders received Kelly Thomas. Tampa Bay and Washington evidence supports the August 2, 1985 swap of tackle Kelly Thomas for defensive back Anthony Washington. That return earns a C- grade for Tampa Bay Buccaneers, and the overall verdict is Even Trade.

Los Angeles Rams received Booker Reese in the deal with Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Reese played nine Rams games in 1984 and two more in 1985 without a start. Los Angeles received some reserve-line service but little production or lineup impact. That outcome supports a C+ for Los Angeles Rams. The Los Angeles Rams Win verdict weighs documented games, starts, production and connected draft value.

Buffalo Bills received 1986 seventh round pick (#168-Bob Williams) in the deal with Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Buffalo used the seventh-round choice on Bob Williams, who did not play an NFL regular-season game. The Bills recovered draft capital, but the selected player produced no direct league value. That outcome supports a D for Buffalo Bills. The Tampa Bay Buccaneers Win verdict weighs documented games, starts, production and connected draft value.

Denver Broncos received 1986 sixth round pick (#139-Ron Brown (William)). Denver received Tampa Bay's 1986 sixth-round choice, later No. 139. Denver did not simply keep the final player attached to that slot; the choice was later included in another transaction before the Giants selected Ron Brown. Even so, the Broncos retained transferable draft capital and extracted more lasting flexibility than Tampa Bay received from Brison Manor. That stronger outcome supports a B- grade for Denver Broncos.

Pittsburgh Steelers received Ray Snell, while Tampa Bay Buccaneers received Steve Courson. Tampa Bay acquired guard Steve Courson, who played all 30 games across the 1984 and 1985 seasons for the Buccaneers. Pittsburgh received Ray Snell, who appeared in 18 games with six starts before leaving the club, giving Tampa Bay the stronger realized veteran return. That outcome supports a C+ grade for Pittsburgh Steelers, a B for Tampa Bay Buccaneers, and a Tampa Bay Buccaneers Win verdict.

Cincinnati traded offensive tackle Don Swafford to Tampa Bay on July 24, 1984 and received a future choice that became the 148th overall pick in the 1985 draft. The Bengals used that sixth-round selection on Eric Stokes. Stokes never appeared in a regular-season game for Cincinnati, but the club at least converted a newly signed veteran into a concrete draft asset before the season.

Tampa Bay acquired Irvin Phillips from the Raiders for Jerry Golsteyn in May 1984. The Buccaneers hoped Phillips could provide secondary depth after an injury-interrupted career, but he did not become a meaningful regular-season contributor in Tampa Bay. Golsteyn likewise did not produce a meaningful Raiders tenure. With no draft choices or downstream assets involved, both clubs effectively exchanged veteran depth without gaining a lasting advantage.

Tampa Bay acquired quarterback Steve DeBerg from Denver in April 1984. Denver received 1984 fourth-round No. 89 Randy Robbins plus a conditional future pick tied to DeBerg’s playing time, which became 1985 second-round No. 36 Richard “Ricky” Byrd. DeBerg gave Tampa Bay several seasons of starting quarterback play, producing a modest Buccaneers edge despite Denver’s two-pick return.

New York Jets received 1985 fifth round pick (#120-Troy Benson) in the deal with Tampa Bay Buccaneers. New York used the fifth-round choice on linebacker Troy Benson, who played 58 Jets games with 43 starts, two sacks and an interception across four seasons. The pick became a substantial long-term contributor. That outcome supports a A for New York Jets. The New York Jets Win verdict weighs documented games, starts, production and connected draft value.

Tampa Bay acquired the NFL rights to defensive back Zac Henderson from the Giants on September 9, 1983 in a straight exchange for offensive lineman Doug Mackie. Henderson was playing in the CFL in 1983 and did not produce a Buccaneers regular-season appearance after the deal.

Dallas Cowboys received 1984 fifth round pick (#113-Steve Pelluer) in the exchange with Tampa Bay Buccaneers. The fifth-round choice became Steve Pelluer, who developed into a multi-season Dallas quarterback and produced the stronger realized return. Against the other side's return of Danny Spradlin, that outcome supports a B+ grade. The transaction is ultimately judged as Dallas Cowboys Win, with the grade reflecting realized football value rather than the name or nominal value of the asset on the trade date.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers received Reese McCall; Baltimore/Indianapolis Colts received conditional 1984 seventh-round pick that did not convey. Tampa Bay waived McCall before the 1983 regular season, and Detroit claimed him two days later. The Colts' conditional seventh-round compensation did not convey, leaving Baltimore with no realized draft asset. The realized outcomes support Even Trade, with Tampa Bay Buccaneers graded C and Baltimore/Indianapolis Colts graded C.

The Raiders acquired offensive lineman Charley Hannah from Tampa Bay for defensive end Dave Browning and a 1984 fourth-round pick. Hannah became a regular Raiders starter and was part of the Super Bowl XVIII championship team. Tampa Bay used the fourth-rounder on tackle Ron Heller, who started 56 games for the Buccaneers. Browning added little, but Heller's production made the return highly worthwhile.

Cincinnati traded quarterback Jack Thompson to Tampa Bay in June 1983 for the Buccaneers' 1984 first-round pick. That selection became No. 1 overall, and the Bengals later dealt it to New England for a package including first-rounders Pete Koch and Brian Blados. Thompson started 13 games in 1983 but faded quickly, leaving Cincinnati with the much stronger long-term asset.

San Francisco 49ers received 1984 fourth round pick (#86-Rickey Hagood). San Francisco received Tampa Bay's 1984 fourth-round choice, later No. 86. The 49ers subsequently used that selection in another transaction rather than receiving the eventual drafted player directly. The important point is that San Francisco controlled a fourth-round asset with continued trade value, which was more useful than Tampa Bay's short-lived return. That stronger outcome supports a B- grade for San Francisco 49ers.

Atlanta received a conditional 1984 draft pick tied to James Mayberry making Tampa Bay's roster, while the Buccaneers received Mayberry. The condition was not exercised, so Atlanta received no draft selection. The available 1982 roster record does not show a regular-season Buccaneers contribution from Mayberry. Those zero-value outcomes support C grades for both teams and an Even Trade verdict.

Tampa Bay traded its 1983 first-round pick to Chicago for the 1982 second-round selection used on defensive end Booker Reese. Reese played only 24 games for the Buccaneers and 35 in his NFL career. Chicago later used Tampa Bay's No. 18 pick on Willie Gault, a productive receiver and member of the 1985 championship team. The Bears won overwhelmingly.

San Diego acquired linebacker Dewey Selmon from Tampa Bay in March 1982 for a 1984 fourth-round pick, No. 89 Randy Robbins. Tampa Bay later moved that same selection to Denver in the Steve DeBerg trade, but the later quarterback transaction is not part of Selmon’s price. The Buccaneers retained the more flexible long-term asset and earn a modest hindsight win.

Los Angeles/San Diego Chargers received Ricky Bell (L.) in the exchange with Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Bell appeared in four games for San Diego and carried only twice for six yards, giving the Chargers almost no realized return. The supported hindsight grade is C. That mark reflects realized value tied directly to this transaction, with the overall result recorded as Even Trade.

San Diego acquired linebacker Dave Lewis from Tampa Bay for a 1982 third-round pick and a 1984 fourth-rounder. Lewis started four games and played nine for the Chargers in 1982 before moving on. Tampa Bay used No. 83 on defensive end John Cannon, who spent nine seasons with the Buccaneers and made 73 starts. The later pick became Michael Gunter, making Cannon the decisive return.

San Francisco 49ers acquired fullback Johnny Davis from Tampa Bay in an August 31, 1981 player-for-player swap, sending James Owens to the Buccaneers. Davis became a useful part of the eventual Super Bowl champion 49ers, contributing as a runner, receiver and backfield contributor. His direct role on a title team supports a B+ and makes San Francisco's side fully worthwhile.

Dallas Cowboys received 1982 eleventh round pick (#295-George Thompson) from Tampa Bay Buccaneers, sending Aaron Mitchell the other way. Mitchell supplied the Buccaneers with actual defensive-back service, while Thompson did not generate meaningful NFL return for Dallas, so Tampa Bay holds the clearer if still modest advantage. That outcome supports a C- grade for Dallas Cowboys, and the overall verdict is Tampa Bay Buccaneers Win.

Pittsburgh traded veteran defensive lineman Steve Furness to Tampa Bay on August 18, 1981 for an undisclosed future draft choice. Contemporary UPI transaction reports and Steelers history confirm the move. Tampa Bay released Furness before the regular season, and no exercised downstream Pittsburgh selection is identified in the reviewed record, leaving the deal with no realized regular-season return on either side.

San Francisco 49ers received 1982 tenth round pick (#269-Dana McLemore). San Francisco used the tenth-round choice on Dana McLemore, who spent six seasons with the 49ers, contributed on defense and returns, and earned a Super Bowl XIX ring. That outcome supports a A- grade because the return is measured by the direct football value San Francisco 49ers actually received after the deal, compared with the asset sent the other way.

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.

Dallas received the 1981 seventh-round choice used on Ron Fellows and the 1982 fourth-round choice used on Brian Carpenter. Fellows became a multi-year Cowboys starter and interception producer, giving Dallas the best long-term asset in the exchange. The A- grade reflects that realized football value and the complete supported package, while the overall verdict is Dallas Cowboys Win.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers received Danny Buggs and 1980 fourth round pick (#102-Larry Flowers). Tampa Bay received Danny Buggs and the fourth-round choice that became Larry Flowers at No. 102. Neither asset produced a level of Buccaneers value comparable to the player Tampa Bay sent away. White's sustained Washington contribution comfortably exceeded the value Tampa Bay realized from Buggs and Flowers, making Washington the clear winner. That outcome supports a D+ grade for Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

On 1980-03-13, Tampa Bay Buccaneers received several 1981 draft picks, while Washington received Darryl Carlton, Morris Owens. The hindsight verdict is Tampa Bay Buccaneers Win, with Tampa Bay Buccaneers graded B- and Washington graded C+. The evaluation follows the documented consideration and the football value that can be traced from it, while keeping unverified downstream pick identities or conditional outcomes out of the final judgment.

New Orleans Saints received 1981 sixth round pick (#144-Johnnie Poe) in the deal with Tampa Bay Buccaneers. The sixth-round choice became Johnnie Poe, who spent seven seasons with New Orleans, played 100 games, started 90 and recorded 17 interceptions. That result supports a A for New Orleans Saints. The New Orleans Saints Win verdict weighs the documented service and usable draft value each side actually realized from the exchange.

On 1979-06-06, Arizona Cardinals received Tom Brzoza, while Tampa Bay Buccaneers received undisclosed draft pick. The hindsight verdict is Arizona Cardinals Win, with Arizona Cardinals graded B- and Tampa Bay Buccaneers graded C+. The evaluation credits only the consideration that can be traced confidently and keeps uncertain pick details out of the final judgment.

San Diego/Los Angeles Chargers received Charlie White in the exchange with Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Charlie White did not produce regular-season value for San Diego after the trade. Against the other side's return of 1980 tenth round pick (#275-Brett Davis), that outcome supports a C- grade. The transaction is ultimately judged as Even Trade, with the grade reflecting realized football value rather than the name or nominal value of the asset on the trade date.

Tampa Bay acquired linebacker Calvin O'Neal from the Baltimore Colts for a conditional 1980 twelfth-round choice. O'Neal never appeared in a regular-season game for the Buccaneers, and Tampa Bay ultimately exercised its own twelfth-round selection on Gene Coleman, showing the conditional pick did not convey to the Colts. Neither franchise realized regular-season value from the exchange, so the hindsight result is an Even Trade at D-minus for both sides.

Cincinnati traded running back Tony Davis to Tampa Bay for a 1980 sixth-round selection that became Andrew Melontree at No. 159. Melontree did not develop into a meaningful long-term Bengals contributor. Davis, meanwhile, remained with Tampa Bay for three seasons and appeared in 47 regular-season games, giving the Buccaneers the more durable realized return.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers received 1980 undisclosed draft choice, while Washington received Louis Carter. Washington acquired Louis Carter on May 15, 1979 for an undisclosed 1980 draft choice, according to the Redskins media guide. Carter was released before the season, so Tampa Bay converted a veteran back into draft value while Washington received only a brief offseason look. The hindsight grades are C- for Tampa Bay Buccaneers and B- for Washington, producing a Tampa Bay Buccaneers Win verdict.

Oakland acquired defensive tackle Dave Pear for second- and third-round picks. Pear started 19 games in two seasons with the Raiders and was part of the Super Bowl XV championship roster, so the club received meaningful veteran value. His stay was brief, though, and Tampa Bay turned the primary pick into a four-year starting guard who helped its first division champion.

New York Jets received 1979 eighth round pick (#198-Marshall Harris (b)) in the exchange with Tampa Bay Buccaneers. New York received the No. 198 eighth-round choice, a real but unspectacular asset that still compares favorably with Austin's limited Buccaneers return. Against the other side's return of Darrell Austin, that outcome supports a B grade. The transaction is ultimately judged as New York Jets Win, with the grade reflecting realized football value rather than the name or nominal value of the asset on the trade date.

Tampa Bay sent quarterback Randy Hedberg to Oakland for cash on February 1, 1979. The transaction is directly recorded in historical transaction data. Hedberg did not become a regular-season contributor for the Raiders, while the Buccaneers at least received financial consideration for a player they were moving. The cash amount is not preserved, so Tampa Bay’s grade stays modest, but Oakland realized essentially no on-field return.

Tampa Bay acquired receiver Frank Grant from Washington on October 10, 1978 for a 1979 seventh-round pick, No. 169. The later Seattle trade involving that selection is separate downstream history and does not belong in the direct package. Grant gave the Buccaneers an immediate player, while Washington gained a late pick, producing little long-term separation between the sides.

Las Vegas Raiders received 1980 fifth round pick (#128-William Bowens) and 1981 fifth round pick (#118-James Davis (Steven)). The Raiders received fifth-round choices in 1980 and 1981, later Nos. 128 and 118. The second of those selections became James Davis, who produced the more durable NFL career tied directly to the Raiders' return. Two draft assets also gave Oakland more flexibility than Tampa Bay received from a short-term quarterback addition. That stronger outcome supports a B- grade for Las Vegas Raiders.

Los Angeles received Tampa Bay's 1981 third-round pick, No. 63, and used it on defensive lineman Greg Meisner. Meisner played eight seasons with the Rams, appeared in 103 games for the club, and became a starter in multiple seasons. Tampa Bay got useful short-term line help, but Meisner's durability and long tenure gave Los Angeles the stronger return.

Baltimore acquired running back Don Hardeman from Tampa Bay and received two seasons of backfield work. Hardeman rushed for 244 yards in 1978 and 292 in 1979, giving the Colts some useful production. Tampa Bay, however, turned the draft compensation into Jerry Eckwood, whose larger multi-year role and broader offensive contribution gave the Buccaneers the stronger return.

San Diego received the future fourth-round pick used on quarterback Ed Luther. Luther spent five seasons with the Chargers, appeared in 61 games, made nine starts, and threw for 3,187 yards. That was meaningful reserve-quarterback value over an extended period, especially compared with Tampa Bay's complete lack of regular-season contribution from Booker Brown after the trade.

On 1978-07-27, Buffalo Bills received Bob Watts (Robert Watts), while Tampa Bay Buccaneers received undisclosed future draft choice. The hindsight verdict is Tampa Bay Buccaneers Win, with Buffalo Bills graded D+ and Tampa Bay Buccaneers graded B-. The evaluation follows the documented consideration and traceable football value, while leaving unresolved downstream pick identities out of the judgment.

San Francisco sent tight end Jim Obradovich to Tampa Bay for the 1979 10th-round pick used on Howard Ballage. Ballage never played an NFL regular-season game. Obradovich, by contrast, spent six seasons with the Buccaneers, appearing in 89 games with 23 starts and seven receiving touchdowns over his career. Tampa Bay turned a late pick into a durable contributor.

Miami acquired veteran defensive end Council Rudolph from Tampa Bay, but Rudolph's documented NFL playing career had already ended after the 1977 season. He did not appear in a regular-season game for the Dolphins following the transaction, leaving Miami without realized on-field value. The lack of a usable player return made the deal a clear miss for Miami.

Detroit Lions received 1979 fourth round pick (#86-Russell Davis) in the 1978-05-10 exchange with Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Detroit received No. 86 in the 1979 draft and later traded that selection to Pittsburgh for defensive back Jimmy Allen, extending the value of the original deal. Against Tampa Bay Buccaneers' return of Rocky Freitas (Rockne Freitas), that outcome supports a B grade. The transaction is judged Detroit Lions Win, with the mark tied to the football value that actually followed from the deal.

Pittsburgh Steelers received 1978 tenth round pick (#276-Tom Jurich) and 1978 eleventh round pick (#279-Nat Terry) from Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the 1978-05-03 exchange. Tampa Bay released Ernie Holmes before the 1978 regular season, while Nat Terry appeared in six Steelers games and returned punts; Tom Jurich never played for Pittsburgh. Measured by what Pittsburgh Steelers actually realized after the deal, the return supports a C+ grade and represents the stronger realized return. The overall judgment is Pittsburgh Steelers Win.

Tampa Bay acquired running back Don Hardeman from Houston in exchange for Anthony Davis in April 1978. Player records identify the correct Anthony Davis born in 1952, eliminating confusion with other players of the same name. Hardeman delivered the more useful post-trade return, giving the Buccaneers a modest edge while Houston still received a legitimate player in the swap.

Tampa Bay surrendered the first overall pick in 1978 and received tight end Jimmie Giles, No. 17 overall, a second-rounder, and third- and fifth-round selections in 1979. The Buccaneers drafted Doug Williams at No. 17, paired him with Giles, and reached the 1979 NFC Championship Game. The other three selections were modest, but Williams and Giles made this an unusually productive return.

Los Angeles Rams acquired Dan Ryczek from Tampa Bay for the sixth-round pick at No. 162 in the 1978 draft. Ryczek played all 16 regular-season games for Los Angeles and appeared in both playoff games as a reserve, giving the Rams immediate depth during a postseason season. That useful one-year contribution earns a B- and the better side of the deal.

Chicago sent Wally Chambers to Tampa Bay in April 1978 and received a future first-round pick plus tight end Bob Moore, who was identified as the player to be named later two days after the initial agreement. The first-rounder became Hall of Fame defensive lineman Dan Hampton, giving the Bears overwhelming long-term value.

Atlanta received Tampa Bay's 1978 seventh-round selection and used it on Alfred Jackson. Jackson became a productive multi-year Falcons receiver, turning a late-round pick into genuine starting-caliber value. The completed research supports that seventh-rounder as Atlanta's trade return and does not support an additional unidentified sixth-round choice, making Jackson the central piece in evaluating the Falcons' side.

Oakland received Tampa Bay's 1978 third-round pick for guard Dan Medlin and used No. 57 on Derrick Jensen. Jensen became a long-term Raider, appearing in 106 games and contributing to two Super Bowl championship teams. Medlin also gave Tampa Bay useful immediate line play, so the Buccaneers earned value, but Oakland received the stronger long-term return.

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.

Tampa Bay acquired offensive tackle Jeff Winans from Oakland for a 1978 fourth-round pick. Winans started 11 games for the Buccaneers in 1977 and one more in 1978, giving Tampa Bay immediate line help. Oakland used No. 86 on Maurice Harvey, who did not produce regular-season value for the Raiders, flipping the result toward Tampa Bay.

The Raiders received the 1978 sixth-round pick used on Tom Davis and the 1979 sixth-round pick used on Ira Matthews in exchange for linebacker Rik Bonness. Matthews became the more useful Oakland return, appearing in 37 games and contributing in the return game. Two late selections created real value, but the overall payoff was modest enough to support a C+ grade rather than a clear victory.

Seattle sent Larry Seivers to Tampa Bay in August 1977 and received the 1979 fifth-round pick that became No. 116, quarterback Dan Manucci. Seattle's own trade history also records that the club later transferred that choice to Buffalo as voluntary compensation connected to Ahmad Rashad. The fifth-round identification makes Seattle's side of the transaction clear.

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.

The Raiders acquired veteran defensive lineman Pat Toomay from Tampa Bay in July 1977 for a draft choice that historical pick tracing identifies only tentatively as 1978 No. 276. Toomay became a regular contributor for the Raiders over three seasons. Because the Buccaneers' pick identity remains uncertain and its later path did not match Toomay's direct production, the Raiders hold the stronger hindsight result.

On 1977-05-01, Oakland/Las Vegas Raiders received Cedric Brown (a), future considerations, while Tampa Bay Buccaneers received 1977 sixth round pick. The hindsight verdict is Tampa Bay Buccaneers Win, with Oakland/Las Vegas Raiders graded C+ and Tampa Bay Buccaneers graded B-. The evaluation follows the documented consideration and the football value that can be traced from it, while keeping unverified downstream pick identities or conditional outcomes out of the final judgment.

Chicago received two sixth-round picks, one of which became quarterback Vince Evans and the other Andre Herrera. The picks gave the Bears multiple roster opportunities after moving Gary Huff. Evans in particular became the durable part of Chicago's return, giving the club more lasting asset value than Tampa Bay received from Huff.

New Orleans acquired Ed McAleney from Tampa Bay for cash in February 1977. The available record confirms the player movement but does not preserve the exact cash amount, which limits how precisely the financial side can be weighed. McAleney did not become a major long-term asset for the Saints, and Tampa Bay's cash return was modest, leaving the trade effectively even at a low grade.

Miami sent Tampa Bay the rights to linebacker Ray Nettles on January 21, 1977 for fifth- and sixth-round selections in that year's draft. The fifth became No. 113, punter Mike Michel. Miami returned the sixth to Tampa Bay on February 7 in a separate deal for Barry Smith and Randy Young, explaining why some later team histories compress the Nettles transaction to only the fifth-round pick.

San Francisco 49ers received Johnny Miller (b) in the exchange with Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Johnny Miller gave San Francisco regular-season snaps after the acquisition. Against the other side's return of 1977 tenth round pick (#267-Aaron Ball), that outcome supports a C+ grade. The transaction is ultimately judged as San Francisco 49ers Win, with the grade reflecting realized football value rather than the name or nominal value of the asset on the trade date.

New York Jets received 1977 seventh round pick (#168-Charlie White) in the exchange with Tampa Bay Buccaneers. The seventh-round choice became Charlie White, whose offensive contribution for New York was limited and did not approach Wood's Tampa Bay value. Against the other side's return of Richard Wood (a), that outcome supports a C grade. The transaction is ultimately judged as Tampa Bay Buccaneers Win, with the grade reflecting realized football value rather than the name or nominal value of the asset on the trade date.

Cincinnati sent running back Charlie Davis to expansion Tampa Bay for a future fourth-round choice, which became No. 85 Rick Walker in 1977. Walker developed into a long NFL career and later became a regular starter in Washington, while Davis' Tampa Bay stay lasted only the 1976 season. The Bengals clearly obtained the more durable asset.

Las Vegas Raiders received draft pick (possibly 1977 #167-Andre Herrera) in the deal with Tampa Bay Buccaneers. The Raiders received a draft choice whose exact downstream identity is only possibly tied to Andre Herrera. No meaningful NFL return can be credited confidently to that uncertain linkage. That result supports a D for Las Vegas Raiders. The Even Trade verdict weighs the documented service and usable draft value each side actually realized from the exchange.

Tampa Bay acquired veteran linebacker Pete Barnes from the St. Louis Cardinals on August 6, 1976, initially sending defensive back John Fuller in return. Fuller failed his Cardinals physical and was returned to Tampa on August 20, with a 1977 draft choice substituted as the consideration. Barnes did not make Tampa Bay’s regular-season roster, while St. Louis retained future draft capital.

On 1976-08-03, Dallas Cowboys received conditional draft choice (not exercised), while Tampa Bay Buccaneers received Warren Capone. The hindsight verdict is Tampa Bay Buccaneers Win, with Dallas Cowboys graded C- and Tampa Bay Buccaneers graded C+. The evaluation follows the documented consideration and the football value that can be traced from it, while keeping unverified downstream pick identities or conditional outcomes out of the final judgment.

On 1976-07-26, Dallas Cowboys received draft pick (selection not identified), while Tampa Bay Buccaneers received David Grannell / Dave Grannell. The final verdict is Tampa Bay Buccaneers Win, with Dallas Cowboys graded C- and Tampa Bay Buccaneers graded C+. The hindsight view follows the documented consideration and later traceable value without treating every named pick outcome as if it had been directly exchanged on trade day. Both sides have identifiable consideration, allowing the hindsight grade to focus on what those assets actually became.

New Orleans received veteran defensive back Jim Kearney. He played all 14 games for the Saints in 1976 and made two starts, giving New Orleans immediate, documented regular-season value from the exchange. That result supports a B- grade within the New Orleans Saints Win verdict.

Tampa Bay sent the Rams 1976 fourth- and fifth-round selections, No. 94 Gerald Taylor and No. 155 Dwight Scales, for linebacker Jim Peterson on April 8, 1976. Peterson's Buccaneers stay produced almost no lasting value, while Scales became a multi-year Rams contributor. Los Angeles converted one expendable player into two draft assets and earns a B+ to Tampa Bay's D+.

San Francisco sent quarterback Steve Spurrier to expansion Tampa Bay for Bruce Elia, Willie McGee and the 1976 second-round pick used on Eddie Lewis. McGee immediately produced 269 receiving yards and four touchdowns in six games before a broken leg. The 49ers received multiple assets and more aggregate value than Tampa Bay realized from one difficult Spurrier season.

New York Jets received 1976 eighth round pick (#211-Joe Davis) from Tampa Bay Buccaneers. The Jets received the eighth-round choice used on Joe Davis, but that selection did not create a comparable regular-season return for New York. That realized return supports a D grade for New York Jets. The final verdict is Tampa Bay Buccaneers Win, based on the regular-season service and draft value each club actually received after the exchange.

Baltimore sent defensive back Mike Washington to expansion Tampa Bay for a 1976 third-round choice and cash. The Colts used the selection on Ron Lee, but Washington became a foundational Buccaneer, playing 100 games with 97 starts and intercepting 28 passes. Baltimore received legitimate consideration, yet Tampa Bay obtained the far more valuable long-term contributor.