George Allen’s first major Washington move sent Marlin…
George Allen’s first major Washington move sent Marlin McKeever and seven premium-to-midround selections to Los Angeles for six veteran players and a fifth-round pick. Washington immediately gained experienced starters and became a playoff team, but the Rams converted the package into Isiah Robertson, Dave Elmendorf and additional draft assets. The long-term star power favors Los Angeles, though Washington’s immediate return was genuinely valuable.
Los Angeles Rams Received
- player Marlin McKeever
- pick 1971 first round pick (#10-Isiah Robertson)
- pick 1971 third round pick (#63-Dave Elmendorf)
- pick 1972 third round pick (#73-Jim White (Charles))
- pick 1972 fourth round pick (#99) [later traded to Philadelphia Eagles for Joe Carollo]
- pick 1972 fifth round pick (#125-Bob Christiansen)
- pick 1972 sixth round pick (#151-Ed Hebert / Eddie Hebert)
- pick 1972 seventh round pick (#177-Mike Zikas)
Washington Commanders Received
- player Maxie Baughan
- player Jack Pardee
- player Myron Pottios
- player Jeff Jordan
- player John Wilbur
- player Diron Talbert
- pick 1971 fifth round pick (#124-Jim Stillwagon)
Trade Analysis
What the Trade Actually Did
On January 28, 1971, Washington and Los Angeles completed one of the largest trades in NFL history. George Allen acquired six Rams veterans — Maxie Baughan, Jack Pardee, Myron Pottios, Jeff Jordan, John Wilbur and Diron Talbert — plus a 1971 fifth-round choice. The Rams received Marlin McKeever, Washington’s first- and third-rounders in 1971, and third- through seventh-round selections in 1972.
Why Washington Made the Bet
Allen’s philosophy was famously immediate. He wanted experienced players who already understood his system, and several of the incoming veterans helped stabilize Washington at once. Talbert became a major defensive presence, Wilbur started on the offensive line, and Pardee and Pottios added veteran leadership. Washington went 9-4-1 and reached the playoffs in 1971, then advanced to Super Bowl VII after the 1972 season. That immediate competitive value matters.
What the Rams Built
Los Angeles turned the top 1971 selections into linebacker Isiah Robertson and safety Dave Elmendorf. Robertson became Defensive Rookie of the Year and a six-time Pro Bowler; Elmendorf became a long-term starter. The additional 1972 choices gave the Rams more chances to replenish a roster Allen had heavily mined for veterans. Those young assets extended the value of the deal well beyond a single season.
How Both Sides Could Benefit
Washington did not simply lose because it surrendered picks. Allen bought a rapid transformation and received productive veterans. But the Rams obtained the transaction’s best long-term player and a deep draft package without giving up a young foundational star.
Final Verdict
Los Angeles wins on long-range realized value, but Washington deserves substantially more credit than a poor grade suggests. The Rams earn an A for converting the package into Robertson, Elmendorf and additional depth; Washington earns a B because the veterans helped create an immediate contender and multiple playoff seasons.