Washington acquired Willie Holman plus Chicago's 1975…
Washington acquired Willie Holman plus Chicago's 1975 fifth-round pick while sending the Bears a 1974 third-rounder. That fifth-round choice became running back Mike Thomas, the 1975 AP Offensive Rookie of the Year and a 1976 Pro Bowler who rushed for more than 4,000 career yards. Chicago's pick became Cliff Taylor, whose NFL impact was minimal, making Washington the decisive winner.
Chicago Bears Received
- pick 1974 third round pick (#62-Cliff Taylor)
Washington Commanders Received
- player Willie Holman
- pick 1975 fifth round pick (#108- Mike Thomas )
Trade Analysis
What Changed Hands
On October 23, 1973, Washington acquired defensive end Willie Holman and a 1975 fifth-round selection from Chicago for a 1974 third-round pick. The Bears used the third-rounder, No. 62, on Cliff Taylor. Washington's later fifth-round choice became No. 108 in 1975 and was used on running back Mike Thomas. The old verdict understated the importance of that downstream selection.
Washington Return
Thomas became by far the most valuable asset in the transaction. As a rookie in 1975, he rushed for more than 900 yards and earned the Associated Press Offensive Rookie of the Year award. He followed with a Pro Bowl season in 1976 and ultimately finished his NFL career with 4,196 rushing yards. He also made 62 career starts. For a fifth-round selection, that is exceptional value. Holman was an additional asset, so Washington's return was not dependent on the pick alone.
Chicago Return
The Bears used their third-round selection on Taylor. His NFL career totaled only 21 games, and his offensive production was limited, including 65 career rushing yards. Chicago therefore spent the higher immediate draft choice but received far less actual production than Washington generated one year later from the fifth-rounder.
Final Verdict
Washington wins by a wide margin. The fifth-round selection alone produced an award-winning rookie, Pro Bowler, and multi-year starting running back, while Chicago's third-rounder did not become a comparable contributor. An A+ for Washington and D+ for Chicago reflects both the scale of the value gap and the exceptional return Washington created from a lower-round future choice.