Indianapolis acquired defensive back and returner Kirk…
Indianapolis acquired defensive back and returner Kirk Springs from the Jets on April 1, 1987 for a conditional 1988 twelfth-round pick. Springs did not make the Colts' regular-season roster and was released in August. Because the trade condition failed, the twelfth-round choice reverted to Indianapolis, leaving the Colts with no regular-season production and the Jets with no lasting draft return.
Indianapolis Colts Received
- player Kirk Springs
New York Jets Received
- pick 1988 conditional twelfth round pick (not exercised)
Trade Analysis
Why Indianapolis Took the Chance
The Colts acquired Kirk Springs in April 1987 for a conditional twelfth-round choice. That structure made the risk minimal: Indianapolis could evaluate an experienced defensive back and return specialist through the offseason while owing the Jets meaningful compensation only if the condition attached to the future pick was satisfied.
What Happened to the Condition
The condition never produced a Jets draft choice. The Jets' own historical account says the 1988 twelfth-round pick reverted to Indianapolis after the Colts released Springs in training camp. Contemporary transaction reporting places his release in late August, before the regular season began.
What Indianapolis Received
Springs did not give the Colts regular-season production. His NFL playing record ended before an Indianapolis regular-season appearance, so the club's return was essentially an offseason look at a veteran player. Because the conditional pick reverted, however, that evaluation also did not cost the Colts the future selection listed in the agreement.
What New York Received
New York cleared Springs from its roster but did not ultimately collect the conditional draft asset. That prevents the Jets from claiming a tangible football return, even though moving a player who was no longer central to their plans had some roster-management logic.
Final Verdict
Neither team generated lasting value. Indianapolis spent little but received no regular-season contribution, while New York moved the player but did not retain the conditional pick. C grades for both sides reflect a low-impact transaction whose condition effectively unwound the draft compensation. The result is an Even Trade rather than a win for either club.