Miami acquired Pete Johnson from San Diego on September 22,…
Miami acquired Pete Johnson from San Diego on September 22, 1984, sending the rights to Dewey Forte and a 1985 second-round pick. Johnson gave the Dolphins immediate goal-line value with nine rushing touchdowns in 13 games during a Super Bowl season. San Diego used No. 55 on Jeffery Dale, who played 42 games and intercepted six passes. The Chargers gained the slightly stronger multi-year return.
Los Angeles Chargers Received
- other rights to Dewey Forte
- pick 1985 second round pick (#55-Jeffery Dale / Jeff Dale)
Miami Dolphins Received
- player Pete Johnson (b)
Trade Analysis
Why Miami Added Pete Johnson
The Dolphins acquired Pete Johnson from San Diego on September 22, 1984 while chasing another championship run. Johnson's role was specialized rather than expansive, but it mattered. In 13 Miami games he carried 68 times for 159 yards and scored nine rushing touchdowns, giving the Dolphins a dependable short-yardage and goal-line option during a season that ended in the Super Bowl.
What San Diego Received
The Chargers received the rights to Dewey Forte and a 1985 second-round pick, No. 55 overall. They used the selection on defensive back Jeffery Dale. Dale played 42 games for San Diego across three seasons, intercepted six passes and returned one for a touchdown. That gave the Chargers a younger player with multiple seasons of defensive value.
How Miami's Short-Term Return Matters
Johnson's 2.3-yard rushing average was not impressive, but raw efficiency misses his job. Nine touchdowns in 13 games represent real situational value. Miami paid for a veteran to help immediately and got exactly that during a championship-caliber year. This was not a failed win-now move.
Why San Diego Gets the Edge
Dale's 42 games, six interceptions and longer runway give the Chargers a slightly larger total return. The second-rounder became a legitimate defensive contributor instead of a wasted pick, while Johnson's Miami value was concentrated in one season. The Forte rights add another piece to San Diego's side even though the pick is the main reason for the advantage.
Final Verdict
San Diego earns a B+ and Miami a B. Johnson's nine touchdowns made the deal worthwhile for the Dolphins, but Dale's multi-year secondary production gave the Chargers more lasting value. Both teams received useful results, with the Chargers holding the narrow edge.