Washington acquired proven receiver Roy Jefferson plus…
Washington acquired proven receiver Roy Jefferson plus ninth-round selections in 1973 and 1974, sending Baltimore rookie Cotton Speyrer and its 1973 first-round choice. Jefferson immediately became Washington’s leading receiver and remained productive for six seasons, including the 1972 Super Bowl run. Baltimore received flashes from Speyrer and converted the first-rounder into later trade value, but never matched Jefferson’s sustained impact.
Indianapolis Colts Received
- player Cotton Speyrer
- pick 1973 first round pick (#25) [later traded with John Andrews (Milton) to Los Angeles/San Diego Chargers for Marty Domres ]
Washington Commanders Received
- player Roy Jefferson
- pick 1973 ninth round pick (#218-Rich Galbos)
- pick 1974 ninth round pick (#213-Don Hutt / Donnie Hutt)
Trade Analysis
What the Trade Actually Did
On July 31, 1971, Washington sent Cotton Speyrer and its 1973 first-round choice to Baltimore for Roy Jefferson and ninth-round selections in 1973 and 1974. Colts and Washington materials agree on the central exchange. Draft-lineage sources identify the later picks and show Baltimore’s first-round asset eventually moving to San Diego in the Marty Domres deal.
Why Washington Wanted Jefferson
Jefferson was already an established high-end receiver. He had helped Baltimore win Super Bowl V one season earlier, and Washington was building a veteran roster under George Allen. The payoff was immediate: Jefferson led Washington with 47 catches in 1971, earned Pro Bowl recognition and remained with the club for six seasons. Washington reached the playoffs repeatedly during that span and advanced to Super Bowl VII after the 1972 season.
What Baltimore Received
Speyrer was a talented second-round rookie, but a broken arm wiped out his 1971 season. He later contributed as a receiver and returner, including four receiving touchdowns in 1973, yet his Colts tenure never approached Jefferson’s sustained production. Baltimore also controlled Washington’s 1973 first-rounder, an important asset that was later incorporated into the deal for quarterback Marty Domres.
How the Value Separated
The first-round pick prevents this from being treated as a giveaway, but Washington acquired the one asset that delivered elite and durable NFL value. Jefferson became a core receiver for a contender. Baltimore received some production and transactional flexibility, yet not a player who matched Jefferson’s role, longevity or postseason relevance in Washington.
Final Verdict
Washington wins. The Colts had defensible reasons to move a receiver in a contract dispute and received meaningful draft capital, but the realized result favored Washington decisively. Jefferson’s six seasons and immediate impact support a B+ for Washington, while Baltimore’s limited player return and indirect pick value warrant a D+.