San Diego acquired veteran left tackle Roman Oben from Tampa…
San Diego acquired veteran left tackle Roman Oben from Tampa Bay in June 2004 for a 2005 fifth-round pick. Oben became an immediate starter on a Chargers team that surged into contention and remained an important offensive lineman into the following seasons. Tampa Bay later traded the acquired pick for Nos. 155 and 231, selecting Larry Brackins and Hamza Abdullah. The extra choices offered some value, but Oben’s starting impact gives San Diego the win.
Los Angeles Chargers Received
- player Roman Oben
Tampa Bay Buccaneers Received
- pick 2005 5th round pick (144th overall; later traded to St. Louis for picks 155 and 231, Larry Brackins and Hamza Abdullah)
Trade Analysis
Why the Trade Happened
Tampa Bay entered the 2004 offseason reshaping its offensive line and had enough competition at tackle to make Roman Oben available. San Diego needed veteran help on the left side and had extra draft capital from the Eli Manning–Philip Rivers transaction. The Chargers sent the 2005 fifth-round pick that would become No. 144 to the Buccaneers for Oben.
What San Diego Received
Oben immediately became an important starter for a Chargers team that jumped from 4-12 in 2003 to 12-4 in 2004. His experience protected a young offense built around Drew Brees and LaDainian Tomlinson, and he remained a regular starter in 2005 before injuries reduced his role later. For a fifth-round pick, San Diego received useful veteran line play during the beginning of a successful competitive run.
How Tampa Bay Used the Pick
The Buccaneers did not simply select at No. 144. During the 2005 draft they traded that choice to St. Louis for picks 155 and 231, which became wide receiver Larry Brackins and safety Hamza Abdullah. The maneuver created two chances from one acquired selection, but neither player provided Tampa Bay with impact comparable to Oben’s starting role in San Diego.
Why This Trade Still Matters
The deal shows how a mid-round pick can be a fair price for certainty at a premium position. Tampa Bay made a logical roster move and preserved future value, but San Diego solved an immediate need without sacrificing major capital.
Final Verdict
Los Angeles/San Diego Chargers Win. San Diego earns a B+ for obtaining a starting left tackle during a winning window. Tampa Bay earns a C+ because the pick was converted intelligently, but the resulting players produced limited value.