Baltimore traded guard Ron Baker to Philadelphia on August…
Baltimore traded guard Ron Baker to Philadelphia on August 26, 1980 for the 1981 eighth-round pick used on defensive end Hosea Taylor. Taylor gave the Colts 20 games and seven starts across two seasons, including six starts and two sacks as a rookie. Baker became a Philadelphia line fixture, starting 106 games for the Eagles from 1980 through 1988. The long-term gap strongly favors Philadelphia.
Indianapolis Colts Received
- pick 1981 eighth round pick (#220-Hosea Taylor)
Philadelphia Eagles Received
- player Ron Baker
Trade Analysis
Why Philadelphia Added Baker
The Eagles acquired guard Ron Baker from Baltimore on August 26, 1980 for a future eighth-round selection. Baker already had NFL experience, and Philadelphia paid a modest draft price to add offensive-line depth for a team positioned to contend.
What Philadelphia Received
The move became far more than a short rental. Baker played for the Eagles through 1988. After one start in 1980, he started all 16 games in 1981, all nine in 1982 and then remained a regular starter for most of the next six seasons. NFL records credit him with 106 starts for Philadelphia from 1980 through 1988.
What Baltimore Received
The Colts used No. 220 in 1981 on defensive end Hosea Taylor. Taylor was not a wasted pick. He played all 16 games as a rookie, started six and recorded two sacks, then returned for four games and one start in 1983. His Colts career totaled 20 games and seven starts.
Why the Duration Creates Separation
Taylor provided useful defensive depth, which keeps Baltimore from receiving a failing grade. Baker's contribution was on a different scale: eight-plus seasons, extensive starting work and more than 100 starts after the trade. That is exceptional value for the cost of an eighth-round selection.
Final Verdict
Philadelphia earns an A and the Colts a C. Baltimore received some legitimate production from Taylor, but Baker became a long-term fixture on the Eagles' offensive line. The sheer difference in duration and starting value makes this a Philadelphia Eagles Win.