Green Bay acquired veteran quarterback Ken O'Brien from the…
Green Bay acquired veteran quarterback Ken O'Brien from the Jets on April 5, 1993, for the 129th pick in that year's draft. O'Brien did not appear in a regular-season game for the Packers and was gone before the season, while New York used No. 129 on Kenny Shedd. Shedd's own career was modest, but any usable draft return outweighed Green Bay's zero regular-season quarterback value.
Green Bay Packers Received
- player Ken O'Brien
New York Jets Received
- pick 1993 5th round pick (129th overall, Kenny Shedd)
Trade Analysis
Why the Deal Happened
Green Bay acquired Ken O'Brien in April 1993 as veteran quarterback competition and insurance, sending the Jets the 129th selection in the upcoming draft. O'Brien had been New York's long-time starter, but the Jets were moving into a new phase and accepted a fifth-round pick for a player they no longer needed. For Green Bay, the gamble was inexpensive and understandable, especially with a young Brett Favre still establishing himself as the long-term answer.
What Each Team Received
The gamble did not produce regular-season value for the Packers. O'Brien did not appear in a regular-season game for Green Bay and later played for Philadelphia. New York used No. 129 on Kenny Shedd, who went on to appear in 60 NFL games and caught 16 passes for 252 yards during his career. Shedd was not a major offensive piece, but the Jets at least converted the outgoing quarterback into a player who reached and remained in the league.
How the Value Developed
The low price keeps Green Bay's grade from falling further. A fifth-round choice is a reasonable cost for experienced quarterback depth, and teams often accept that risk even when the player never becomes a starter. Historical grading still has to reflect the result: Green Bay received no regular-season contribution from O'Brien, while New York turned the pick into an NFL player. The Jets' advantage is modest in absolute value but clear in comparative value.
Final Verdict
New York Jets Win. New York earns a B- for recovering useful draft capital from a veteran it was ready to move and turning the pick into a player who lasted in the league. Green Bay earns a D+ because O'Brien never provided regular-season value to the Packers. The trade did not materially hurt Green Bay because the cost was small, but the Jets unquestionably received more from the exchange.