New England traded the NFL rights to USFL receiver Ricky…
New England traded the NFL rights to USFL receiver Ricky Sanders to Washington in August 1986 for Washington’s 1987 third-round pick, No. 81 overall. The Patriots retained useful draft value and later moved the choice in another deal. Washington, however, obtained a receiver who became a major part of its offense, topped 1,100 yards twice and scored 12 touchdowns in 1988.
New England Patriots Received
- pick 1987 third-round pick (No. 81 overall)
Washington Commanders Received
- other rights to Ricky Sanders
Trade Analysis
Why Washington Pursued Ricky Sanders
Washington was aggressive in bringing USFL talent into its roster in 1986, and Ricky Sanders was one of the most important additions. The club sent New England its 1987 third-round pick, No. 81 overall, for Sanders' NFL rights. That was a meaningful price for a player who had not yet produced in the NFL, but Washington was betting on speed and receiving ability that fit its offense.
What Sanders Became
The bet paid off quickly and then kept paying. Sanders played for Washington from 1986 through 1993. He broke out with 1,148 receiving yards and 12 touchdowns in 1988, followed with 1,138 yards in 1989 and remained a productive target for years. Across his Washington tenure he caught 414 passes and became a familiar part of the club's championship-era receiving corps.
What New England Received
The Patriots received the 1987 third-round pick at No. 81. New England did not simply waste the asset; the club later packaged that selection with another choice in a trade with the Raiders. That downstream move gave the Patriots additional draft opportunities. Still, the direct asset acquired from Washington was the No. 81 pick, not a player who can fairly be attached to this transaction by himself.
How the Value Settled
Washington bought years of starting-caliber receiver production with one third-round choice. New England preserved flexibility, but Sanders' established output was much larger than the direct value of the pick surrendered. His peak seasons alone gave Washington a return that would be difficult for a typical third-round asset to equal.
Final Verdict
Washington earns an A and New England a C+. The Patriots received legitimate draft capital, but Washington acquired a productive receiver who remained through eight seasons and multiple deep postseason runs. The lasting on-field difference makes this a Washington Commanders Win.