Detroit ultimately sent tight end David Hill to the Rams for…
Detroit ultimately sent tight end David Hill to the Rams for Los Angeles' 1984 third-round pick, No. 75, after the original Rod Perry-plus-1985-pick arrangement was voided when Perry failed his Lions physical. Detroit used No. 75 on defensive lineman Steve Baack, who played 55 games for the Lions from 1984 through 1987.
Detroit Lions Received
- pick 1984 third-round pick (No. 75; Steve Baack)
Los Angeles Rams Received
- player David Hill
Trade Analysis
The Final Exchange
The original August 19 agreement called for Detroit to receive Rod Perry and a 1985 third-round pick for David Hill. Perry failed his Lions physical because of a knee problem and was returned to Los Angeles. Contemporary reporting confirms the return, while Detroit's own media guides state that the final compensation became the Rams' 1984 third-round choice. The Lions used that selection, No. 75, on Oregon defensive lineman Steve Baack. The legacy row therefore preserves the voided first structure instead of the completed replacement deal.
Detroit's Return
Baack gave Detroit legitimate depth and special-teams value. Lions media guides identify him as the No. 75 pick obtained from the Rams in the Hill trade. NFL records credit Baack with 55 games across four Lions seasons, one start and two sacks. He was a useful roster player, but he never developed into a regular defensive starter.
Los Angeles' Return
Hill became a durable Rams tight end. NFL records show him playing all 16 games in each of his first four Los Angeles seasons and 12 more in 1987. Across five Rams seasons he totaled 76 games, 62 starts, 113 receptions, 1,158 receiving yards and five touchdowns. That is sustained starting-level production from a veteran acquired for a third-round choice.
Final Verdict
Los Angeles Rams Win. The Rams earn a B+ because Hill supplied five seasons of regular lineup value and more than 1,100 receiving yards. Detroit earns a C+ because Baack stayed four seasons and contributed across 55 games, but almost entirely as a reserve and special-teams player. Both clubs received usable assets, yet Hill delivered the stronger and more important football return.