Baltimore acquired quarterback Marty Domres from San Diego in…
Baltimore acquired quarterback Marty Domres from San Diego in August 1972 for tight end John Andrews and the 1973 first-round pick Baltimore had obtained from Washington. San Diego used that selection at No. 25 on Heisman Trophy winner Johnny Rodgers, while Domres became the Colts’ primary starter during a turbulent 1972 season.
Indianapolis Colts Received
- player Marty Domres
Los Angeles Chargers Received
- player John Andrews (Milton)
- pick 1973 first round pick (#25-Johnny Rodgers)
Trade Analysis
What the Trade Actually Did
Baltimore acquired quarterback Marty Domres from San Diego in August 1972 for tight end John Andrews and the 1973 first-round pick Baltimore had obtained from Washington. San Diego used that selection at No. 25 on Heisman Trophy winner Johnny Rodgers, while Domres became the Colts’ primary starter during a turbulent 1972 season.
Why the Deal Made Sense
Baltimore needed a succession option behind Johnny Unitas, and Domres did start nine games in 1972. That immediate role gives the Colts tangible value rather than making the trade a pure draft-pick loss. San Diego extracted a first-round pick plus Andrews from a quarterback who was blocked by John Hadl. From an asset-management perspective, that was an excellent return.
What the Return Became
Rodgers did not become an immediate NFL star, which narrows the hindsight margin considerably. The theoretical value of a first-round pick was stronger than the eventual on-field payoff.
Why the Value Separated
San Diego still holds the edge because it converted a surplus quarterback into premium capital and a veteran player. Baltimore received needed quarterback snaps, but the organizational instability of the period limited the long-term return.
Final Verdict
Los Angeles/San Diego Chargers Win. The final grades reflect realized production, longevity, acquisition cost and the value of the draft capital that changed hands. Indianapolis Colts receives C and Los Angeles Chargers receives B+.
How the Hindsight Standard Applies
This verdict does not assume that every draft choice should have produced a star. It compares what each club surrendered with the actual careers, roster roles and flexibility created by the exchange. That keeps the judgment centered on historical value rather than reputation alone.
Domres became Baltimore's primary quarterback during the turbulent 1972 season, while San Diego received Andrews plus a first-round selection ultimately used on Johnny Rodgers.