The Rams sent veteran tight end Charle Young plus 1980 third-…
The Rams sent veteran tight end Charle Young plus 1980 third- and fourth-round picks to San Francisco for the No. 58 pick in 1980 and a 1983 third-rounder. Los Angeles used No. 58 on Jewerl Thomas, who rushed for 427 yards as a rookie, and later used the future selection in another trade. The Rams received useful value, but Young became the strongest direct contributor.
Los Angeles Rams Received
- pick 1980 third round pick (#58-Jewerl Thomas)
- pick 1983 third round pick (#63-Jamie Williams)
San Francisco 49ers Received
- player Charle Young
- pick 1980 third round pick (#77-Craig Puki)
- pick 1980 fourth round pick (#98-David Hodge)
Trade Analysis
Why San Francisco Wanted Young
The 49ers acquired veteran tight end Charle Young from the Rams on April 28, 1980 and also received third- and fourth-round selections. San Francisco gave up No. 58 in the 1980 draft plus a 1983 third-rounder, making this more than a simple veteran-for-pick exchange.
What the 49ers Received
Young became an immediate starter. He started 15 games in 1980, all 16 in the 1981 championship season and nine more in 1982. Across those three years he caught 88 passes for 914 yards and seven touchdowns. San Francisco also received No. 77 Craig Puki, who played for the club, while No. 98 David Hodge did not become a comparable contributor.
What the Rams Received
Los Angeles used No. 58 on running back Jewerl Thomas. Thomas produced 427 rushing yards at 6.6 yards per carry as a rookie, then had smaller roles in 1981 and 1982. The future 1983 third-round pick, No. 63, also retained downstream value when the Rams later included it in the deal for Gary Jeter.
Why Both Sides Grade Respectably
The Rams did not leave empty-handed. Thomas had a productive rookie season, and the future pick remained useful trade currency. San Francisco nevertheless received the best direct player in Young, who supplied three years of starting tight-end play during the franchise's transition into a champion.
Final Verdict
San Francisco earns an A- and Los Angeles a B. The Rams captured legitimate value, but Young's sustained starting role and championship-era contribution give the 49ers the stronger overall return.