NFL Trade Verdict
Even Trade
Miami acquired Ricky Williams from New Orleans and received major rushing production, including an NFL rushing title. The Saints recovered first-round value and additional draft capital. Because both sides received real value with real costs attached, this grades as even.
Miami Dolphins Received
- pick Ricky Williams and 2002 4th round pick (114th overall, Randy McMichael )
New Orleans Saints Received
- pick 2002 1st round pick (25th overall, Charles Grant ), 2002 4th round pick (125th overall, Keyuo Craver ) and 2003 1st round pick (18th overall subsequently traded, Calvin Pace )
Trade Analysis
Williams gave Miami substantial on-field value, but the cost was high and his early retirement limited the long-term payoff. New Orleans turned the exit into Charles Grant and future first-round value. The deal is best treated as a high-impact even trade rather than a clean win for either side.