New York sent Neil Hutton and Randy Sidler to Washington for…
New York sent Neil Hutton and Randy Sidler to Washington for a conditional 1980 draft choice, believed to be a tenth-rounder if either player made Washington's roster. The available record does not establish whether that condition ultimately produced a pick, and neither acquired player created major lasting value. With the downstream outcome unresolved, the fairest hindsight result is even.
New York Jets Received
- other conditional 1980 draft choice (believed 10th round; if either Hutton or Sidler made Washington roster)
Washington Commanders Received
- player Neil Hutton
- player Randy Sidler
Trade Analysis
The Exchange
Washington acquired Neil Hutton and Randy Sidler from the Jets on June 14, 1979. Contemporary reporting says New York was to receive a conditional 1980 draft choice, believed to be a tenth-rounder, only if either player made Washington's roster. The available record supports the condition itself but does not establish the ultimate conveyance.
New York Titans/Jets Return
New York sent Neil Hutton and Randy Sidler to Washington for a conditional 1980 draft choice, believed to be a tenth-rounder if either player made Washington's roster. The available record does not establish whether that condition ultimately produced a pick, and neither acquired player created major lasting value. With the downstream outcome unresolved, the fairest hindsight result is even.
Washington Return
Washington acquired Neil Hutton and Randy Sidler from the Jets on June 14, 1979 for a conditional 1980 draft choice tied to either player making the roster. Historical reporting supports the condition but does not establish the final pick conveyance. Because neither side has a clearly documented lasting payoff, the trade grades as an even, low-impact exchange.
Value in Hindsight
This deal is best graded conservatively because the uncertain part is the outcome of the condition, not the existence of the transaction. The players, date, and conditional formula are documented, while the final pick conveyance remains unresolved. Assigning New York a specific selection would overstate what is known, but ignoring the conditional return entirely would also distort the exchange. On Washington's side, the acquired players did not create enough durable production to force a clear win. With modest player value and an unconfirmed downstream pick, the most defensible result is to keep both sides at the same low grade.
Final Verdict
The trade finishes even at C- for both clubs. Washington received real depth, but not a lasting impact player, and New York's conditional return cannot be tied confidently to a specific conveyed pick. Neither side has a strong enough documented payoff to claim the win.