Indianapolis acquired George Radachowsky from the Rams on…
Indianapolis acquired George Radachowsky from the Rams on August 27, 1984 for a 1985 eleventh-round pick. Radachowsky played all 16 games as a Colts rookie and three more in 1985, giving Indianapolis immediate depth. Los Angeles used the pick on Doug Flutie, who never played for the Rams but whose rights were later traded to Chicago for future draft value. Both teams extracted something useful.
Indianapolis Colts Received
- player George Radachowsky
Los Angeles Rams Received
- pick 1985 eleventh round pick (#285-Doug Flutie)
Trade Analysis
Why Indianapolis Made the Move
The Colts acquired defensive back George Radachowsky from the Rams on August 27, 1984 for an eleventh-round pick in the 1985 draft. The cost was low, and Indianapolis received immediate roster depth. Radachowsky played all 16 games as a rookie and appeared in three more games in 1985 before injuries interrupted his tenure.
What the Rams Received
Los Angeles used the No. 285 selection on quarterback Doug Flutie. That looks more dramatic in hindsight than it was for the Rams themselves. Flutie did not play a regular-season game for Los Angeles. His value to the organization came later when the Rams traded his NFL rights to Chicago and received draft compensation, including an improvement in 1987 draft position and an additional selection.
How the Returns Differed
Indianapolis received the simpler benefit: a player who suited up for 19 games and helped fill out the secondary and special teams. The Rams received a speculative late-round asset that did not produce on the field for them but still retained enough value to be moved later. Neither side converted the transaction into a star or a major long-term advantage.
Why the Grades Stay Modest
The Colts' contribution was real but limited, while the Rams' eventual return depended on a later rights transaction rather than direct Flutie production. Both sides did better than getting nothing, yet neither produced enough value for a strong grade.
Final Verdict
Indianapolis and Los Angeles each receive a B-. Radachowsky gave the Colts useful short-term depth, and the Rams eventually turned Flutie's rights into future draft value. The benefits are different but close enough that this remains an Even Trade.