New York moved Joe Dawkins and Dave Simonson to Houston in…
New York moved Joe Dawkins and Dave Simonson to Houston in August 1976 for the 1977 seventh-round pick used on Al Dixon and another undisclosed selection, possibly the 1978 choice used on Rich Martini. Dawkins contributed only a limited final NFL season for Houston, while Dixon gave the Giants several seasons of service. New York receives a B- to Houston's C-.
New York Giants Received
- pick 1977 seventh round pick (#178- Al Dixon )
- pick undisclosed pick (possibly 1978 #188-Rich Martini)
Tennessee Titans Received
- player Joe Dawkins
- player Dave Simonson
Trade Analysis
The Exchange
On August 25, 1976, the Giants sent veteran running back Joe Dawkins and Dave Simonson to Houston for draft compensation. The identified return includes Houston's 1977 seventh-round selection, No. 178, which New York used on Al Dixon, plus another undisclosed choice that historical draft work has tentatively linked to a later selection. The exact second pick remains uncertain, but the core transaction and the Dixon selection are sufficiently supported to evaluate the trade.
New York Giants Return Return
Dixon gave New York several seasons of roster value after arriving as a seventh-rounder. That alone supplied a more durable return than might be expected from this level of compensation. The second selection adds some upside to the Giants' side even though its precise identity is not firm enough to over-credit. New York moved veterans it was willing to part with and replenished the roster with younger draft capital.
Houston Oilers Return Return
Dawkins played all 14 games for Houston in 1976 but started only once, carrying 31 times for 61 yards and one touchdown while adding limited receiving work. Simonson did not create a long-term offsetting advantage. Houston acquired recognizable veteran depth, yet the return was short-lived and did not become an important part of the club's future.
Value in Hindsight
The uncertainty around the second pick keeps the grade spread modest, but it does not require an insufficient-evidence label. The known seventh-round selection and the players' subsequent team value already establish a reasonable direction. New York received younger, longer-lasting value from a transaction that gave Houston only a brief veteran contribution.
Final Verdict
New York Giants Win is the proportional verdict. The Giants receive a B- for converting expendable veterans into useful draft value. Houston receives a C- because Dawkins contributed in 1976, but the Oilers did not realize enough lasting production to match New York's return.