Washington acquired halfback Julie Rykovich from the Chicago…
Washington acquired halfback Julie Rykovich from the Chicago Bears on September 24, 1952 for a 1953 seventh-round draft choice. Rykovich started 21 games over two Washington seasons and produced 612 rushing yards plus 356 receiving yards.
Chicago Bears Received
- pick 1953 seventh-round draft pick (Bucky McElroy)
Washington Commanders Received
- player Julie Rykovich
Trade Analysis
The Exchange
The 1953 draft transaction ledger and team media-guide records identify the return as Washington's seventh-round selection, which Chicago used on Bucky McElroy. That removes the legacy “possibly” language around the pick while avoiding an overall-number conflict across historical draft ledgers.
Washington Return
Rykovich immediately became a major part of Washington's offense. Pro Football Reference credits him with 11 games and nine starts in 1952, producing 361 rushing yards, 283 receiving yards and two touchdowns. He returned in 1953 for 12 games and 12 starts, adding 251 rushing yards, 73 receiving yards and another touchdown.
Chicago Return
The Bears used the acquired seventh-round selection on Southern Miss back Bucky McElroy. Pro Football Reference records only one NFL regular-season appearance for McElroy, in 1954, so the draft asset produced very little on-field return.
Hindsight Comparison
Washington received two seasons of starting backfield value: 23 games, 21 starts, 612 rushing yards and 356 receiving yards. Chicago converted the pick into a player who appeared in one regular-season game.
Final Verdict
Washington Commanders Win, B+ to D+. Rykovich became an immediate two-year starter and productive offensive piece, while the seventh-round return produced almost no regular-season value for Chicago.