San Diego acquired defensive lineman Leroy Jones from the…
San Diego acquired defensive lineman Leroy Jones from the Rams for a 1977 second-round choice and $12,500. Jones became an immediate starter and a productive long-term Charger, giving San Diego exactly the kind of front-line return expected for premium draft capital. His sustained defensive value makes the acquisition worthwhile.
Los Angeles Chargers Received
- player Leroy Jones
Los Angeles Rams Received
- pick 1977 second round pick (#50-Billy Waddy)
- other $12,500 cash
Trade Analysis
The Exchange
San Diego acquired defensive lineman Leroy Jones from the Los Angeles Rams on September 6, 1976, for a 1977 second-round draft choice and $12,500. Transaction records and older Chargers material support the Rams as the trading partner. The Rams later used the acquired selection, No. 50, on wide receiver Billy Waddy.
What San Diego Received
Jones became a productive Charger rather than a short rental. Pro Football Reference credits him with 111 career games and 45 sacks, and he immediately appeared in all 14 games with 10 starts for San Diego in 1976. His combination of starting work and pass-rush production gave the Chargers a durable return for the premium pick they surrendered.
What Los Angeles Received
The Rams converted the second-round choice into Waddy, who also became a genuine contributor. Pro Football Reference credits him with 120 career receptions, 1,963 receiving yards and 10 touchdowns, with most of that work coming for Los Angeles. The added cash sweetened the return, making this more than a simple case of a club selling a useful veteran.
Why the Value Landed Here
Both organizations turned the transaction into real multi-year production. San Diego got the established defensive player and benefited immediately, while the Rams used the draft choice effectively on a receiver who stayed productive for them. Because both the veteran and the pick delivered, hindsight does not create a meaningful loser.
Final Verdict
San Diego and Los Angeles each receive B+ grades. Jones justified the Chargers' investment, and Waddy justified the Rams' decision to take the draft package. With substantial direct value on both sides, this is an even trade.