The Raiders sent cornerback Ted Watts to New York on August…
The Raiders sent cornerback Ted Watts to New York on August 31, 1985, for the 1986 fourth-round pick used on running back Vance Mueller. Watts gave the Giants one season of depth. Mueller stayed with the Raiders for five seasons, appeared in 73 games and contributed as a runner, receiver and kickoff returner, giving the Raiders the stronger long-term return.
Las Vegas Raiders Received
- pick 1986 fourth-round pick (No. 103, Vance Mueller)
New York Giants Received
- player Ted Watts
Trade Analysis
The Exchange
On August 31, 1985, the Raiders traded defensive back Ted Watts to the Giants for New York's fourth-round choice in the 1986 draft. That selection became No. 103 overall, running back Vance Mueller. New York was adding veteran depth for an immediate season, while Los Angeles accepted delayed draft value and the chance to turn a roster piece into a younger contributor.
Los Angeles' Return
Mueller never became a featured back, but he provided five seasons of useful depth. From 1986 through 1990 he appeared in 73 games, carried 128 times for 469 yards and three touchdowns, caught 40 passes for 452 yards and two scores, and added 878 kickoff-return yards. His best offensive season came in 1989, when he produced 401 yards from scrimmage and four touchdowns. That is substantial utility from a fourth-round pick.
New York's Return
Watts joined a Giants team headed for the playoffs and supplied veteran secondary depth in 1985. He appeared throughout the season and made a handful of starts, giving New York some immediate value for the pick. His Giants tenure was brief, however, and he did not develop into a multi-year defensive piece. The acquisition was useful in context but limited in duration.
Value in Hindsight
This is not a case where a future pick became a star, but the Raiders still won the volume comparison. Mueller remained available for five seasons and contributed in three phases: rushing, receiving and kickoff returns. New York paid a fourth-round asset for one season of Watts. That can be defensible for a contender, yet it is difficult to match the 73 games Los Angeles eventually received from the selection.
Final Verdict
Las Vegas Raiders Win. The Raiders earn a B for converting a fourth-round pick into five years of versatile depth. New York receives a C+ because Watts helped an immediate playoff roster but did not stay long enough to match Mueller's accumulated service. The Raiders hold the clearer hindsight advantage.