Tampa Bay acquired receiver Frank Grant from Washington on…
Tampa Bay acquired receiver Frank Grant from Washington on October 10, 1978 for a 1979 seventh-round pick, No. 169. The later Seattle trade involving that selection is separate downstream history and does not belong in the direct package. Grant gave the Buccaneers an immediate player, while Washington gained a late pick, producing little long-term separation between the sides.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers Received
- player Frank Grant
Washington Commanders Received
- pick 1979 7th round pick (#169, Larry Polowski)
Trade Analysis
The Exchange
Tampa Bay acquired wide receiver Frank Grant from Washington on October 10, 1978. Washington received the Buccaneers' 1979 seventh-round selection, No. 169. Draft provenance later associates that pick with Larry Polowski, but Washington moved No. 169 again in a separate March 1979 transaction with Seattle. That later Seattle package must be kept out of the direct Tampa Bay-Washington trade.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers Return
The Buccaneers chose an immediate player over a late future selection. Grant provided a veteran receiving option, which was a sensible use of seventh-round capital for a young franchise still building roster depth. His Tampa Bay contribution did not become significant enough to make the exchange a clear win, but the acquisition was also inexpensive and carried limited downside.
Washington Commanders Return
Washington converted Grant into a seventh-round pick. No. 169 gave the club another draft asset and later became part of a separate trade chain. The subsequent movement with Seattle is relevant only as provenance; it should not be counted as extra compensation received directly from Tampa Bay. On the original terms, Washington's return was a real but low-value selection.
Value in Hindsight
Late-round picks and veteran depth players often create narrow outcome ranges, and this deal fits that pattern. Tampa Bay received a usable player without giving up meaningful premium capital, while Washington recovered an asset for a player it was prepared to move. Neither return developed into enduring value that materially changed either franchise.
Final Verdict
Tampa Bay and Washington each receive a C. Grant supplied immediate roster utility, and Washington received a legitimate seventh-round choice, but neither side generated a notable long-term payoff. Once the later Seattle transaction is properly removed from the direct package, there is no strong basis to force a winner. The trade is best graded as Even.