Los Angeles sent veteran safety Richie Petitbon to Washington…
Los Angeles sent veteran safety Richie Petitbon to Washington in August 1971. The return was a 1973 sixth-round selection plus a 1974 first-round pick, with the premium choice revised from a 1973 second-rounder after Washington discovered that selection had already been traded. The first-rounder later became part of another Rams transaction.
Los Angeles Rams Received
- pick 1973 sixth round pick (#133- Jim Peterson )
- pick 1974 first round pick (#20- Dave Gallagher ; revised from an unavailable 1973 second round pick)
Washington Commanders Received
- player Richie Petitbon
Trade Analysis
What the Trade Actually Did
Los Angeles sent veteran safety Richie Petitbon to Washington in August 1971. The return was a 1973 sixth-round selection plus a 1974 first-round pick, with the premium choice revised from a 1973 second-rounder after Washington discovered that selection had already been traded. The first-rounder later became part of another Rams transaction.
Why the Deal Made Sense
The corrected package centers on Petitbon for a 1973 sixth-round pick and Washington’s 1974 first-round choice. Extra draft assets previously attached to Washington’s return are removed because they belong to other transaction chains. Petitbon was not a throwaway veteran. He started for Washington, brought championship-era experience, and contributed to a defense that reached the Super Bowl after the 1972 season.
What the Return Became
The Rams nevertheless obtained premium future capital for a veteran defensive back. Washington’s first-round pick had substantial value even after Los Angeles later moved it in another transaction.
Why the Value Separated
Los Angeles holds the asset-value edge, but Washington received meaningful immediate production during a contender window. That makes the trade a clear Rams win rather than a disastrous Washington mistake.
Final Verdict
Los Angeles/Cleveland/St. Louis Rams Win. The final grades reflect realized production, longevity, acquisition cost and the value of the draft capital that changed hands. Los Angeles Rams receives A- and Washington Commanders receives B-.
How the Hindsight Standard Applies
This verdict does not assume that every draft choice should have produced a star. It compares what each club surrendered with the actual careers, roster roles and flexibility created by the exchange. That keeps the judgment centered on historical value rather than reputation alone.
Petitbon strengthened Washington during a Super Bowl run, but Los Angeles received premium future draft capital whose flexibility and value exceeded the veteran safety's shorter-term contribution over time.