Cincinnati acquired quarterback John Stofa from Miami before…
Cincinnati acquired quarterback John Stofa from Miami before the franchise’s inaugural 1968 season, surrendering two draft choices that became No. 27 Doug Crusan and No. 54 Jim Cox. Stofa started seven games for the expansion Bengals and threw for 896 yards and five touchdowns. That immediate quarterback help mattered, but Miami’s return included a first-round tackle who became a multi-year starter.
Cincinnati Bengals Received
- player John Stofa
Miami Dolphins Received
- pick 1968 first round pick (#27-Doug Crusan)
- pick 1968 second round pick (#54-Jim Cox)
Trade Analysis
What Changed Hands
Cincinnati acquired quarterback John Stofa from Miami in December 1967 for two future draft choices. Those choices were later identified as No. 27 and No. 54 in the 1968 draft. Miami used them on tackle Doug Crusan and tight end Jim Cox, giving the Dolphins two early selections in exchange for a quarterback who would help launch the Bengals.
What Cincinnati Got
Stofa provided immediate usefulness to an expansion club that needed experienced quarterback play. In 1968 he appeared in 10 games, started seven, threw for 896 yards and produced five touchdown passes. That is meaningful value in the context of a first-year roster, even though he did not become Cincinnati’s long-term answer. The Bengals therefore deserve credit for acquiring a functional starter rather than merely a temporary camp arm.
What Miami Got
The Dolphins received the stronger long-term package. Crusan, the 27th overall pick, played 82 games and started 61 during his Miami career. Cox, selected 54th, appeared in 13 games as a rookie and added depth at tight end. The second choice did not become a major piece, but Crusan alone supplied years of starting offensive-line value and eventually played on Miami’s championship-era teams.
Final Verdict
Cincinnati obtained useful short-term quarterback production at an important moment in franchise history, so its side earns a respectable B-. Miami still wins because one outgoing quarterback produced two premium selections and, most importantly, a first-round tackle with 61 starts. An A- for the Dolphins reflects the combination of draft leverage and durable line play.