Baltimore traded running back Norm Bulaich to Philadelphia…
Baltimore traded running back Norm Bulaich to Philadelphia for the 1973 fourth-round pick used on Gery Palmer and the 1974 second-round pick used on Ed Shuttlesworth. Bulaich immediately gave the Eagles substantial rushing and receiving work, while the Colts' return produced little realized value; Shuttlesworth never played for Baltimore. The original Colts-win direction therefore needs to be reversed in Philadelphia's favor.
Indianapolis Colts Received
- pick 1973 fourth round pick (#83-Gery Palmer)
- pick 1974 second round pick (#37-Ed Shuttlesworth)
Philadelphia Eagles Received
- player Norm Bulaich
Trade Analysis
What the Trade Actually Did
Baltimore sent Norm Bulaich to Philadelphia before the 1973 season and received two draft choices in return. The 1973 fourth-round selection became Gery Palmer, while the 1974 second-round selection became Ed Shuttlesworth. The Eagles acquired a veteran runner who could contribute immediately rather than waiting for either pick to develop.
Why Bulaich Helped Philadelphia
Bulaich stepped into a heavy role in 1973. He started all 14 games, rushed for 436 yards, added 403 receiving yards, and scored four total touchdowns. That versatility mattered for an Eagles offense that needed dependable backfield production. He remained in Philadelphia the following season, giving the club more than a one-year rental.
What Baltimore Got From the Picks
The Colts had two opportunities to turn the deal into longer-term value, but the results were poor. Palmer did not become a meaningful Baltimore contributor, and Shuttlesworth never played for the Colts after being drafted in the second round. A future second-rounder normally gives the selling team a strong chance to win a veteran-for-picks exchange, but that opportunity was not converted.
Why the Original Direction Does Not Hold
The earlier Colts-win label focused too heavily on the nominal value of receiving two picks. Hindsight grading has to account for what those selections actually became. Philadelphia received tangible starting production, while Baltimore received little on-field return from either drafted player.
Final Verdict
Philadelphia earns a B and the win because Bulaich delivered immediate, versatile production at a reasonable realized cost. Baltimore falls to a D+ because the Colts obtained attractive draft capital but failed to turn it into meaningful roster value. The pick count favored Baltimore on paper; the football results favored Philadelphia.