Steve Conley

Summary: Pittsburgh acquired 1999 5th round pick (136th overall, Jerame Tuman) from Indianapolis/Baltimore Colts for Steve Conley. Analysis: The available record points to a balanced exchange rather than a clear steal. Pittsburgh addressed its roster or draft-board preference, while Indianapolis/Baltimore Colts received comparable value in return.

Summary: Pittsburgh acquired Jerome Bettis and a third-round pick from the Rams for a second-round pick and a fourth-round pick. Bettis ran for 10,571 yards as a Steeler and won Super Bowl XL in his final season. Analysis: The Rams were misusing Bettis in their zone-blocking scheme; Pittsburgh turned him into a franchise icon. Bettis made four Pro Bowls in Pittsburgh, became the face of the franchise, and was inducted into the Hall of Fame. The Steelers received Bettis plus a pick while sending only a second and a fourth — an extraordinary return. The Rams' received assets (Ernie Conwell, Jerome Daniels) contributed minimally. A+ remains the correct grade; this is one of the best trades in franchise history.