Chicago Bears received Tom Forrest, while Los Angeles/San…
Chicago Bears received Tom Forrest, while Los Angeles/San Diego Chargers received $100 cash. Forrest played eight regular-season games for Chicago after the Bears paid only $100 for the rookie. The hindsight grades are B for Chicago Bears and C for Los Angeles/San Diego Chargers, producing a Chicago Bears Win verdict.
Chicago Bears Received
- player Tom Forrest
Los Angeles Chargers Received
- other $100 cash
Trade Analysis
The Exchange
Chicago Bears received Tom Forrest, while Los Angeles/San Diego Chargers received $100 cash. Chicago paid only $100 for Forrest on August 6, 1974, after San Diego had drafted him in the seventh round earlier that year. The fairest hindsight test is the actual roster service and durable asset value created by each side compared with the cost surrendered.
Chicago Bears Return
For Chicago Bears, the acquired return was Tom Forrest. Forrest appeared in eight regular-season games for the Bears, giving Chicago actual roster service for a nominal cash outlay. That result drives a B grade. The assessment rests on demonstrated playing time, later asset conversion, or immediate consideration rather than assumed value. Because this is a minor transaction, the grade stays proportional to the limited stakes.
Los Angeles/San Diego Chargers Return
Los Angeles/San Diego Chargers came away with $100 cash. The useful comparison is what the club ultimately retained from the deal, not the incoming name's apparent value on the transaction date. Regular-season snaps, a later pick, or certain cash value count when they materialized; the grade falls when the acquired piece produced little or nothing afterward. That record supports a C for this side.
Value in Hindsight
The separation between the teams is based on realized value and the scale of the cost. Forrest played eight regular-season games for Chicago after the Bears paid only $100 for the rookie. A short-lived acquisition can still be worthwhile when the price is tiny, while a player who generates no regular-season contribution can leave the selling club ahead in an obscure deal. The available evidence is specific enough to make that comparison without overstating either side's gain.
Final Verdict
The final call is Chicago Bears Win. Chicago Bears receives a B, while Los Angeles/San Diego Chargers receives a C. Those grades reflect the verified terms, subsequent service or asset value, and the modest scale of the exchange.