Washington acquired Karl Lorch's rights from Miami for a 1976…
Washington acquired Karl Lorch's rights from Miami for a 1976 10th-round pick. Lorch eventually joined the team and played six Washington seasons, appearing in 90 games with 52 starts and providing substantial defensive-line value. Miami used pick No. 281 on Gary Fencik, who never played for the Dolphins before becoming a star elsewhere. Washington won this exchange by a wide margin.
Miami Dolphins Received
- pick 1976 tenth round pick (#281-Gary Fencik)
Washington Commanders Received
- other rights to Karl Lorch
Trade Analysis
The Exchange
On January 29, 1975, Washington acquired the negotiating rights to defensive lineman Karl Lorch from Miami for a 1976 10th-round draft choice. Contemporary reporting and draft-transaction records trace the pick to No. 281, Gary Fencik. Lorch did not join Washington immediately because he remained in the World Football League, but the rights ultimately paid off.
Washington Commanders Return
After the WFL folded, Lorch joined Washington and became a durable contributor. He played six seasons for the franchise, appearing in 90 regular-season games and starting 52. Historical stat reconstructions credit him with substantial pass-rush production, and contemporary Washington coverage described the low-cost acquisition as a coup. The delay did not prevent the rights from becoming real long-term roster value.
Miami Dolphins Return
Miami used the 10th-round selection on defensive back Gary Fencik. Fencik eventually built an excellent NFL career, but not for Miami; he did not play a regular-season game for the Dolphins. Trade evaluation should credit the Dolphins for the asset they controlled, not for production Fencik delivered after leaving the organization.
Value in Hindsight
The contrast is large. Washington spent a late-round pick on rights that became six seasons and 52 starts. Miami's pick did not produce direct Dolphins playing value. Fencik's later success elsewhere does not change the realized outcome for Miami in this exchange.
Final Verdict
Washington wins decisively. The Commanders earn an A- for turning a 10th-round choice into a long-term defensive contributor. Miami earns a D because the selected player produced no Dolphins regular-season value. The realized returns support a decisive Washington advantage.