The Chargers acquired running back John Cappelletti from the…
The Chargers acquired running back John Cappelletti from the Rams in March 1980 for a 1982 second-round pick, later No. 49. Cappelletti gave San Diego three seasons of useful work, appearing in 35 games and making 19 starts from 1980 through 1982. The Rams retained meaningful draft value and later included the pick in a larger trade-up package, but Cappelletti's direct multi-season contribution gives the Chargers a narrow edge.
Los Angeles Chargers Received
- player John Cappelletti
Los Angeles Rams Received
- pick 1982 second round pick (#49) [later traded with 1981 third round pick (#69-Russ Grimm), 1981 fifth round pick (#117-Byron Braggs) and 1981 fifth round pick (#132-Gary Sayre) to Washington for 1982 first round pick (#14-Barry Redden)]
Trade Analysis
Why the Trade Happened
San Diego added John Cappelletti as a veteran back who could contribute in several roles, while the Rams preferred future draft capital. Chargers historical material describes Cappelletti as a useful pass protector and identifies the cost as a 1982 second-round selection. This was therefore a classic present-versus-future exchange rather than a bet on a star changing teams.
What the Chargers Received
Cappelletti supplied three seasons of service. Team records show 10 games with eight starts in 1980, 16 games with five starts in 1981 and nine games with six starts in 1982. His statistical totals were modest, but his blocking and versatility gave the Chargers a recurring role player. For a club trying to compete immediately, 35 games and 19 starts represented real value.
What the Rams Received
The Rams obtained the future second-round pick that became No. 49 in 1982. Draft-trade records show that the selection later moved as part of a multi-pick package used to move up in the first round. The Rams should receive credit for preserving and reusing a second-round asset, but not for the entire outcome of the later transaction because other picks were required in that package.
How the Value Developed
The trade remained relatively balanced. San Diego received predictable veteran service over three seasons, while the Rams maintained a useful future asset. Cappelletti's role was not large enough to create a major advantage, and the Rams did not simply lose the pick's value. The Chargers' edge comes from converting the exchange into immediate, repeated on-field contribution.
Final Verdict
San Diego earns a C+ and the Rams a C. Cappelletti's 35 games and 19 starts slightly outweigh the more indirect value of the future pick, but the Rams retained useful draft capital and later redeployed it. This is a narrow Chargers win, not a lopsided trade.