San Francisco acquired Jim Plunkett in a blockbuster attempt…
San Francisco acquired Jim Plunkett in a blockbuster attempt to solve quarterback, but his two 49ers seasons produced a losing record and no playoff berth. The cost was enormous: Tom Owen, two 1976 first-rounders and premium 1977 choices. New England converted that package into Pete Brock, Tim Fox, Raymond Clayborn and Horace Ivory, creating multiple long-term contributors from one outgoing quarterback.
New England Patriots Received
- player Tom Owen
- pick 1976 first round pick (#12-Pete Brock)
- pick 1976 first round pick (#21-Tim Fox)
- pick 1977 first round pick (#16-Raymond Clayborn)
- pick 1977 second round pick (#44-Horace Ivory)
San Francisco 49ers Received
- player Jim Plunkett
Trade Analysis
What the Trade Actually Did
San Francisco acquired Jim Plunkett from New England in April 1976. The Patriots received quarterback Tom Owen and four premium selections: 1976 first-round picks No. 12 and No. 21, a 1977 first-rounder and a 1977 second-rounder. Those choices became Pete Brock, Tim Fox, Raymond Clayborn and Horace Ivory.
Why San Francisco Took the Swing
Plunkett was a former No. 1 overall pick with obvious talent, and the 49ers were searching for a long-term answer at quarterback. The logic was understandable. The problem was timing: Plunkett went 11-15 as San Francisco's starter across two seasons and did not lead the club to the postseason.
What New England Built from the Package
The Patriots spread the return across several players rather than depending on one replacement. Brock became a long-tenured offensive lineman, while Clayborn developed into a cornerstone defensive back and returner. Fox and Ivory added further NFL value. The missing Tim Fox selection is essential to understanding just how expensive the acquisition was.
Why Plunkett's Later Career Does Not Rescue the Deal
Plunkett eventually authored a remarkable second act with the Raiders, winning two Super Bowls. That success came after San Francisco released him. Trade evaluation has to focus on what the 49ers actually received during his tenure, not what another franchise unlocked later.
Final Verdict
New England wins decisively. The Patriots exchanged one quarterback for a diversified premium package that produced years of useful play, while San Francisco paid heavily for two non-playoff seasons. New England earns an A, and San Francisco receives a C because the bet was defensible but the realized value fell far short of the price.