Miami acquired quarterback Scott Secules from Dallas on…
Miami acquired quarterback Scott Secules from Dallas on August 6, 1989 for a 1990 fifth-round pick that became No. 120, James Gray. Secules served as a Dolphins reserve for three seasons and saw limited passing work. Dallas later included the acquired pick in a draft-day package with New England that brought back higher selections, including the pick used on defensive tackle Jimmie Jones. Dallas converted the asset more effectively.
Dallas Cowboys Received
- pick 1990 fifth round pick (#120-James Gray)
Miami Dolphins Received
- player Scott Secules
Trade Analysis
Why Miami Added Secules
Miami acquired Scott Secules from Dallas on August 6, 1989, sending a 1990 fifth-round choice in return. The Dolphins were buying quarterback depth from a player who had already started games for the Cowboys, while Dallas was reshaping its roster under a new staff and preferred future draft capital. The price was meaningful but still modest for a young quarterback with regular-season experience.
What Miami Received
Secules spent the next three seasons with the Dolphins and served mainly as a reserve. In 1989 he appeared in 15 games but attempted only 50 passes, completing 22 for 286 yards with one touchdown and three interceptions. His Miami tenure supplied insurance behind the starter, yet it did not develop into sustained starting value or a major competitive advantage.
How Dallas Leveraged the Pick
The fifth-round selection became No. 120 in the 1990 draft, associated with James Gray. Dallas did not simply make that pick and stop the chain. The Cowboys included No. 120 with other selections in a draft-day deal with New England, receiving No. 64, No. 143 and No. 197. Dallas used No. 64 on defensive tackle Jimmie Jones, creating meaningful value from the asset acquired for Secules.
Final Verdict
Miami received legitimate backup-quarterback service, so this was not a wasted acquisition. Dallas, however, converted a reserve quarterback into draft capital and then used that capital as part of a move that helped produce a useful defensive lineman and additional choices. That superior asset conversion earns Dallas a B, while Miami's limited but real depth value merits C+. The long-term chain supports a Dallas Cowboys Win.