Ernie Holmes / Fat Holmes

Summary: Pittsburgh acquired 1978 tenth round pick (#276-Tom Jurich); 1978 eleventh round pick (#279-Nat Terry) from Tampa Bay Buccaneers for Ernie Holmes / Fat Holmes. Analysis: The trade grades against Pittsburgh because the outgoing side carried more durable value, stronger draft upside, or a better long-term return for Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

Summary: Pittsburgh acquired Ernie Holmes / Fat Holmes from New England/Boston Patriots for cash. Analysis: Pittsburgh paid cash — the lowest tier of trade capital — to acquire this player from New England/Boston Patriots. Cash deals in this era reflected waiver-wire-level value or end-of-contract moves; they rarely involved difference-makers. The transaction registered as a minor personnel adjustment rather than a strategic shift.

Summary: Pittsburgh acquired 1971 eighth round pick (#203-Ernie Holmes / Fat Holmes) from Miami Dolphins for Bob DeMarco. Analysis: Pittsburgh came away from this 1970 transaction with the stronger side of the exchange. The assets acquired from Miami Dolphins provided meaningful roster value — either through direct on-field contribution, draft capital, or positional need addressed — that outpaced what was sent away.