Los Angeles traded running back Eddie Hill to Miami for a…
Los Angeles traded running back Eddie Hill to Miami for a 1983 fourth-round pick. Hill spent four seasons with the Dolphins but was used sparingly on offense, with 209 rushing yards across 52 regular-season games. The Rams used No. 111 in 1983 on defensive end Doug Reed, who became a seven-year contributor with 96 games, 81 starts and 22.5 sacks. Los Angeles clearly won the long-term exchange.
Los Angeles Rams Received
- pick 1983 fourth round pick (#111-Doug Reed)
Miami Dolphins Received
- player Eddie Hill
Trade Analysis
Why Miami Added Eddie Hill
The Dolphins acquired Hill before the 1981 season to add experienced running-back depth. He had already spent two seasons with the Rams and could contribute immediately without Miami waiting for a future draft pick to develop. Hill stayed with the Dolphins through 1984, so the acquisition was not a one-week rental.
What Hill Gave the Dolphins
Hill's role was mostly complementary. He rushed for 146 yards in 1981 and 51 in the strike-shortened 1982 season, then had only a handful of offensive touches afterward. His roster longevity gave Miami some depth value, but the production never approached that of a featured offensive player.
How the Rams Used the Pick
Los Angeles received Miami's 1983 fourth-round selection, No. 111, and drafted defensive end Doug Reed. Reed became a starting lineman by 1985 and remained a regular through 1990. He played 96 games for the Rams, started 81 and recorded 22.5 sacks, including 7.0 in 1985 and 6.5 in 1986.
Why the Long-Term Value Is Lopsided
The Rams turned a reserve running back into a seven-year defensive contributor who started more than 80 games. Miami got several seasons from Hill, which keeps the deal from being a complete miss, but his offensive impact was limited and he never matched Reed's importance to his new team.
Final Verdict
Los Angeles earns an A- and Miami a C+. Hill gave the Dolphins useful depth, but Reed became a durable starting defensive end and generated far more on-field value. Converting a future fourth-round pick into that level of sustained production makes the Rams the clear winner.