Miami received two eighth-round selections, including the…
Miami received two eighth-round selections, including the 1980 pick at No. 214 used on quarterback David Woodley. Woodley became a multi-year Dolphins starter and started Super Bowl XVII, creating major value from a very late draft choice. The longer view produces a A grade for Miami Dolphins. Miami earns an A and Washington a D+.
Miami Dolphins Received
- pick 1979 eighth round pick (#206-Jeff Groth)
- pick 1980 eighth round pick (#214-David Woodley)
Washington Commanders Received
- player Jim Mandich
Trade Analysis
The Exchange
Miami Dolphins received 1979 eighth round pick (#206-Jeff Groth) and 1980 eighth round pick (#214-David Woodley), while Washington received Jim Mandich. The transaction is best judged by the football value those assets ultimately produced for the teams that acquired them, rather than by draft position or name recognition alone.
What Miami Dolphins Received
Miami received two eighth-round selections, including the 1980 pick at No. 214 used on quarterback David Woodley. Woodley became a multi-year Dolphins starter and started Super Bowl XVII, creating major value from a very late draft choice.
What Washington Received
Washington received tight end Jim Mandich. Mandich had been a productive Dolphin, but the transaction did not provide Washington with comparable regular-season value; his 1978 regular-season statistics are recorded with Pittsburgh rather than Washington.
How the Value Developed
Late-round picks usually carry modest expectations, which makes Woodley's outcome particularly valuable. Miami found a starting quarterback with one of the two selections received. Washington acquired a veteran name but did not realize similar on-field return. The difference is substantial despite the low original draft cost.
Why the Difference Matters
The important distinction is realized team value. Miami Dolphins and Washington each acquired something usable, but the length, role and quality of the resulting contributions were not equal. That difference is what drives the hindsight grades without exaggerating the importance of a standard-tier transaction.
Final Verdict
Miami earns an A and Washington a D+. Woodley becoming a multi-year starter and a Super Bowl starter turns the Dolphins' side into a major success. Washington did not receive a comparable regular-season contribution from Mandich, leaving Miami with the clear hindsight advantage.