NFL Trade Verdict

Miami moved up seven spots in the fourth round for linebacker…

Miami moved up seven spots in the fourth round for linebacker A.J. Edds, surrendering picks used on Akwasi Owusu-Ansah and Sam Young. Edds tore his ACL before his rookie season and never established a Dolphins role. Dallas did not find a major contributor either, but Owusu-Ansah and Young at least appeared in regular-season games for the Cowboys. That small amount of realized value gives Dallas the edge.

Dallas Cowboys Received

  • pick 2010 4th round pick (126th overall, Akwasi Owusu-Ansah)
  • pick 2010 6th round pick (179th overall, Sam Young)

Miami Dolphins Received

Trade Analysis

Why Miami Moved Up

Miami sent picks No. 126 and No. 179 to Dallas for No. 119 during the 2010 draft and selected Iowa linebacker A.J. Edds. The Dolphins were betting on Edds’ coverage ability and versatility in the middle of their defense. The move was modest in draft position, but Miami gave up two opportunities to secure the player it preferred.

What Happened to Edds

The evaluation changed almost immediately. Edds tore the ACL in his right knee during training camp and missed his entire rookie season. He returned the next year but did not establish a meaningful role with Miami and was waived before becoming a regular contributor. For trade-value purposes, the Dolphins received almost no regular-season production from the player they moved up to select.

What Dallas Received

The Cowboys used No. 126 on defensive back Akwasi Owusu-Ansah and No. 179 on offensive tackle Sam Young. Owusu-Ansah contributed mainly as a reserve and return option before his Dallas tenure ended. Young also had only a brief Cowboys role, although he later built a long NFL career with other teams. Because this grading centers on value delivered to the acquiring club, his later success elsewhere adds little to Dallas’ side.

How the Value Compares

Neither team should receive a strong grade. Dallas did not turn the extra selection into a starter, but it at least got regular-season appearances from both picks. Miami spent more concentrated capital and received almost nothing because Edds’ injury derailed the plan.

Final Verdict

Dallas Cowboys Win. Dallas gets a C for extracting limited but real roster value from two selections. Miami receives a D+ because the move-up produced virtually no Dolphins contribution. The gap is small, reflecting a low-impact exchange rather than a major mistake.

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