The Jets traded Hall of Fame receiver Don Maynard to St.…
The Jets traded Hall of Fame receiver Don Maynard to St. Louis on Sept. 10, 1973 for a future draft choice that became the 1974 eleventh-round pick, No. 267 William Buckley. Maynard's name was enormous, but his remaining NFL production was tiny: one catch for 18 yards in two Cardinals games. The Jets' pick also produced no meaningful return, leaving the exchange essentially even.
Arizona Cardinals Received
- player Don Maynard
New York Jets Received
- pick 1974 eleventh round pick (#267-William Buckley)
Trade Analysis
What the Trade Actually Did
New York moved Don Maynard to the St. Louis Cardinals in September 1973 for a future draft choice. Contemporary reporting described the return simply as a pick, and draft-trade records trace it to the 1974 eleventh-round selection at No. 267. The Jets used that choice on Mississippi State receiver William Buckley.
Why Maynard's Reputation Was Bigger Than His Remaining Value
Maynard was already one of pro football's great receivers. He finished his career with 633 receptions, 11,834 yards, and 88 touchdowns and eventually entered the Pro Football Hall of Fame. By the time of this trade, however, he was near the end. His Cardinals tenure lasted only two games and produced one reception for 18 yards.
What the Jets Got Back
An eleventh-round pick was a modest return even in an era with a much longer draft. Buckley did not become a meaningful NFL contributor, so New York did not turn Maynard's departure into a useful long-term asset. The Jets were essentially clearing a roster spot while receiving a low-probability selection.
Why Neither Side Created Separation
St. Louis took almost no financial or draft risk, but it also gained almost no production. New York gave up a franchise icon, yet the player it surrendered had very little NFL value remaining. Since the acquired pick failed to matter, neither team can claim a strong football payoff.
Final Verdict
This remains an even trade at C/C. The Cardinals paid little and received little; the Jets surrendered little remaining production and received little from the pick. Maynard's historical greatness makes the transaction memorable, but the value exchanged in September 1973 was modest on both sides.