The Rams traded veteran halfback Jon Arnett to Chicago for…
The Rams traded veteran halfback Jon Arnett to Chicago for Roger Davis, Frank Budka, Joe Wendryhoski and a 1965 fifth-round pick used on Frank Marchlewski. Arnett gave the Bears three seasons but never regained his earlier Pro Bowl form. Los Angeles received several usable pieces and greater aggregate roster value, making the Rams the winner without turning the deal into a landslide.
Chicago Bears Received
- player Jon Arnett
Los Angeles Rams Received
- player Roger Davis
- player Frank Budka
- player Joe Wendryhoski
- pick 1965 fifth round pick (#60- Frank Marchlewski )
Trade Analysis
The Exchange
On August 23, 1964, the Los Angeles Rams sent veteran halfback Jon Arnett to the Chicago Bears. Los Angeles received guard Roger Davis, defensive back Frank Budka, center Joe Wendryhoski and a 1965 fifth-round pick that became Frank Marchlewski. Chicago was filling an urgent backfield need after Willie Galimore's death, while the Rams converted an aging former star into several roster assets.
Los Angeles Rams Return
The Rams did not land another player with Arnett's peak résumé, but they received four separate pieces. Davis brought established offensive-line experience, Wendryhoski supplied interior depth, Budka offered secondary depth and the fifth-round choice created another developmental opportunity. That diversified package gave Los Angeles more usable roster value than a one-for-one veteran exchange would have provided and reduced the risk of moving a recognizable name.
Chicago Bears Return
Arnett arrived as a five-time Pro Bowler whose best seasons had come with the Rams. Knee problems had already reduced some of the explosiveness that defined his prime, but he still gave Chicago a credible veteran option at a position of immediate need. He spent three seasons with the Bears. The acquisition had practical value, though it did not recreate the star-level production that made Arnett prominent in Los Angeles.
Value in Hindsight
Chicago's circumstances made the move understandable, and Arnett was not a failed acquisition. The Rams nevertheless sold at the right point in his career and received a broad package that produced more aggregate roster utility. None of the individual Los Angeles pieces became a defining star, but the exchange favored the side that acquired several usable assets for a veteran already moving past his peak.
Final Verdict
Los Angeles Rams Win. The Rams keep their B for turning a declining veteran into three players and a draft choice. Chicago remains at B- because Arnett supplied three seasons and addressed an immediate need, but the Bears surrendered the deeper package for a player whose best football had already occurred.