Baltimore sent offensive lineman John Williams to the Los…
Baltimore sent offensive lineman John Williams to the Los Angeles Rams before the 1972 season and received the Rams’ 1974 first-round draft choice. Baltimore eventually used that pick at No. 24 on wide receiver Roger Carr, creating a long-term offensive return from a veteran lineman who had played out his option.
Indianapolis Colts Received
- pick 1974 first round pick (#24-Roger Carr)
Los Angeles Rams Received
- player John Williams (M.)
Trade Analysis
What the Trade Actually Did
Baltimore sent offensive lineman John Williams to the Los Angeles Rams before the 1972 season and received the Rams’ 1974 first-round draft choice. Baltimore eventually used that pick at No. 24 on wide receiver Roger Carr, creating a long-term offensive return from a veteran lineman who had played out his option.
Why the Deal Made Sense
This trade produced meaningful value for both teams. Williams became a steady Rams starter, while Baltimore converted the future first-round choice into Roger Carr. Carr developed into one of the Colts’ most productive receivers of the decade and earned a Pro Bowl selection, giving Baltimore a strong realized outcome from the draft capital.
What the Return Became
Williams also had substantial longevity in Los Angeles, starting across a run of successful Rams teams. That prevents the Rams’ side from being treated as a failure despite the first-round cost.
Why the Value Separated
The edge goes to Baltimore because the Colts moved a veteran who had played out his option and still secured a future first-rounder that became a high-impact skill player. The Rams did well enough to keep the margin from becoming lopsided.
Final Verdict
Indianapolis Colts Win. The final grades reflect realized production, longevity, acquisition cost and the value of the draft capital that changed hands. Indianapolis Colts receives A- and Los Angeles Rams 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.