Washington obtained running back Trung Canidate from St.…
Washington obtained running back Trung Canidate from St. Louis for guard David Loverne and a 2003 fourth-round pick, later used on DeJuan Groce. Canidate led Washington in rushing in 2003 with 600 yards across 11 games, while the Rams received line depth and a defensive back. St. Louis collected multiple pieces, but Washington got the strongest immediate on-field production from the exchange.
Los Angeles Rams Received
- player David Loverne
- pick 2003 4th round pick (107th overall, DeJuan Groce )
Washington Commanders Received
- player Trung Canidate
Trade Analysis
Why Washington Wanted Canidate
Washington was reshaping its backfield after moving on from Stephen Davis and saw Trung Canidate as a younger, faster option with prior first-round pedigree. The cost was guard David Loverne and a fourth-round pick. Canidate immediately took on a meaningful role, starting 10 games and rushing for 600 yards in 2003, so Washington did receive tangible production rather than merely betting on upside.
What St. Louis Collected
The Rams turned a player who had fallen out of their plans into two assets. Loverne provided offensive-line depth, and the 107th overall pick became defensive back DeJuan Groce. That is a sensible package for a running back who was not going to remain central to Mike Martz's offense. St. Louis therefore deserves more credit than the verdict alone might suggest.
How the Immediate Return Matters
Washington's 2003 season was disappointing overall, but Canidate still became the team's leading rusher and averaged 4.2 yards per carry. His tenure was not long enough to create a major franchise legacy, yet the club acquired a player who filled the intended starting role. The Rams' return was broader but did not yield an impact player whose career clearly surpassed what Washington received in that first season.
Final Verdict
Washington Win. The Rams' B-plus acknowledges that two assets for a surplus back was solid business. Washington's A-minus reflects the cleanest immediate result: Canidate stepped into the lineup and delivered 600 rushing yards at a position the club needed to fill. The gap is not enormous, but Washington got the most direct football value from the trade.
Washington obtained running back Trung Canidate from St. Louis for guard David Loverne and a 2003 fourth-round pick, later used on DeJuan Groce. Canidate led Washington in rushing in 2003 with 600 yards across 11 games, while the Rams received line depth and a defensive back. St. Louis collected multiple pieces, but Washington got the strongest immediate on-field production from the exchange.