San Diego received the future fourth-round pick used on…
San Diego received the future fourth-round pick used on quarterback Ed Luther. Luther spent five seasons with the Chargers, appeared in 61 games, made nine starts, and threw for 3,187 yards. That was meaningful reserve-quarterback value over an extended period, especially compared with Tampa Bay's complete lack of regular-season contribution from Booker Brown after the trade.
Los Angeles Chargers Received
- pick 1980 fourth round pick (#101- Ed Luther )
Tampa Bay Buccaneers Received
- player Booker Brown
Trade Analysis
The Exchange
On 1978-08-04, Los Angeles Chargers received 1980 fourth round pick (#101-Ed Luther), while Tampa Bay Buccaneers received Booker Brown. The evaluation follows the football value actually created by the consideration each club controlled. When an acquired pick was later moved again, that later transaction is treated separately rather than automatically credited as player production from this exchange.
Los Angeles Chargers Return
San Diego received the future fourth-round pick used on quarterback Ed Luther. Luther spent five seasons with the Chargers, appeared in 61 games, made nine starts, and threw for 3,187 yards. That was meaningful reserve-quarterback value over an extended period, especially compared with Tampa Bay's complete lack of regular-season contribution from Booker Brown after the trade.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers Return
Tampa Bay acquired Booker Brown, but the move produced no regular-season return. Brown went to injured reserve in 1978 and was released before the 1979 season without appearing in a Buccaneers game. The acquisition therefore failed to deliver usable roster value, while San Diego's eventual draft return became Ed Luther and generated five seasons of quarterback depth.
Value in Hindsight
Tampa Bay acquired Booker Brown, but he went to injured reserve in 1978 and was released before the 1979 season without playing a regular-season game for the Buccaneers. San Diego received the future fourth-round pick used on Ed Luther. Luther spent five seasons with the Chargers, appeared in 61 games, made nine starts, and threw for 3,187 yards. The comparison emphasizes direct club service, starting responsibility, production, and retained draft value without overstating later transactions that required additional consideration.
Final Verdict
Los Angeles Chargers receives a B and Tampa Bay Buccaneers receives a D+. The verdict is Los Angeles Chargers Win. The grade spread reflects the scale of the original transaction and the difference in realized football value, while still giving credit for legitimate depth, draft capital, and short-term service.