The then-Oakland Raiders acquired Josh McCown and former…
The then-Oakland Raiders acquired Josh McCown and former first-round receiver Mike Williams from Detroit for the 105th pick in the 2007 draft. McCown started nine games and threw 10 touchdowns for Oakland, while Williams was waived during the season. Detroit used the fourth-rounder on A.J. Davis and did not gain enough from the pick to overcome McCown's short-term value.
Detroit Lions Received
- pick 2007 4th round pick (105th overall, A.J. Davis )
Las Vegas Raiders Received
- player Josh McCown and Mike Williams
Trade Analysis
Why Oakland Took the Chance
The Raiders entered the 2007 draft needing quarterback options and were willing to take on two Detroit players in one move. Josh McCown offered starting experience, while Mike Williams brought former top-10 pedigree and familiarity with coach Lane Kiffin from USC. Detroit received the 105th overall selection and cleared both players from its plans.
What the Raiders Received
McCown supplied the most useful part of the return. He started nine games for Oakland in 2007, throwing for 1,151 yards and 10 touchdowns. The team went 2-7 in those starts, so this was not a transformative quarterback acquisition, but he did fill an immediate need. Williams contributed far less, appearing in six games with one start before the Raiders waived him in October.
How Detroit Fared
The Lions used pick No. 105 on defensive back A.J. Davis. That selection did not develop into enough NFL value to make the draft return more meaningful than the short-term quarterback play Detroit surrendered. Moving on from McCown and Williams made roster sense, especially given Williams' disappointing Detroit tenure, but the compensation did not become a productive asset.
Why This Trade Still Matters
The transaction illustrates the difference between winning a trade and earning a high grade. Oakland found a temporary starter for a fourth-round pick, yet neither acquired player became a long-term building block. Detroit gained flexibility and a draft choice, but the choice failed to generate a stronger result.
Final Verdict
Las Vegas Raiders Win. The franchise, then based in Oakland, receives a C+ because McCown provided nine starts and some immediate utility. Detroit receives a D because the fourth-round return did not become a meaningful contributor. The margin is real but modest, reflecting a deal in which neither side found lasting value.