Philadelphia acquired fullback Steve Howell from Miami on…
Philadelphia acquired fullback Steve Howell from Miami on August 18, 1981 for a 1982 tenth-round selection. Howell did not record regular-season statistics for the Eagles after the trade. Miami used the pick at No. 271 on Florida linebacker Robin Fisher, who did not play an NFL regular-season game. Because neither side turned the transaction into meaningful on-field value, the result settles as an Even Trade.
Miami Dolphins Received
- pick 1982 tenth round pick (#271-Robin Fisher)
Philadelphia Eagles Received
- player Steve Howell (Glen)
Trade Analysis
Why Philadelphia Made the Move
The Eagles acquired Steve Howell as veteran backfield depth late in the 1981 preseason. Howell had already played for Miami and had NFL rushing experience, so the move offered Philadelphia a known professional player for the low cost of a future tenth-round selection.
What Howell Produced for Philadelphia
The move did not lead to measurable regular-season value for the Eagles. Howell's recorded NFL rushing production came with Miami, and he did not establish a regular-season role in Philadelphia after the trade. That makes the acquisition a low-impact transaction despite the modest price.
How Miami Used the Pick
The Dolphins received Philadelphia's 1982 tenth-round selection and used No. 271 on Florida linebacker Robin Fisher. Draft records confirm the selection, but Fisher did not appear in an NFL regular-season game. Miami therefore did not convert the pick into a contributor either.
Why Neither Side Separates
This was a low-cost exchange, so neither team deserves an especially harsh judgment for taking the chance. Philadelphia gave up a late pick for an experienced fullback, while Miami took a late-round lottery ticket on a linebacker. The problem for both sides is that neither asset generated meaningful regular-season production for the acquiring club.
Final Verdict
Both teams receive D+ grades and the trade is Even. Philadelphia did not obtain lasting value from Howell, and Miami's tenth-round pick did not become an NFL contributor. With minimal cost and minimal return on both sides, there is not enough separation to name a winner.