Cleveland Browns
Trade grades, verdicts, asset movement, and historical context for Cleveland Browns franchise trades.
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Cleveland Browns
The Rams' trade for Myles Garrett belongs in the modern blockbuster tier because Los Angeles acquired the rarest piece in the deal: a proven elite pass rusher. Cleveland received a serious return with Jared Verse and premium picks, but the Rams won the known-player side while the Browns accepted future-dependent value. The Browns did not get fleeced, but Los Angeles acquired the proven superstar while Cleveland accepted the risk of future conversion.
Denver moved up to No. 152 in the 2026 draft and selected NC State tight end Justin Joly. The Broncos sent Cleveland picks No. 170 and No. 182 to make the move. Joly gave Denver a targeted pass-catching prospect, but the deal required two later selections for one fifth-round choice and no regular-season results are available yet. The current C grade reflects a defensible bet rather than a proven win.
Seattle Seahawks acquired 2026 5th round pick (148th overall, Beau Stephens) from Cleveland Browns for a 2027 4th round pick. The available record does not show enough separation to call a clear long-term winner.
Cleveland Browns acquired 2026 4th round pick (105th overall subsequently traded, Brenen Thompson), 2026 5th round pick (145th overall subsequently traded, Nick Barrett) and a 2027 4th round pick from New York Giants for 2026 3rd round pick (74th overall, Malachi Fields). The available record does not show enough separation to call a clear long-term winner.
Los Angeles Chargers acquired 2026 4th round pick (105th overall, Brenen Thompson), 2026 5th round pick (145th overall, Nick Barrett) and 2026 6th round pick (206th overall, Alex Harkey) from Cleveland Browns for 2026 3rd round pick (86th overall, Austin Barber). The available record does not show enough separation to call a clear long-term winner.
New York traded picks No. 105 and No. 145 in the 2026 draft plus a 2027 fourth-round pick to Cleveland for No. 74, then used that third-round selection on Notre Dame receiver Malachi Fields. The official Giants account dates the move to April 24, correcting the earlier January date attached to this row. New York receives a C+ for aggressively securing a target; Cleveland receives a C for accumulating three assets.
San Francisco 49ers acquired 2026 3rd round pick (70th overall, Romello Height) and 2026 4th round pick (107th overall, Gracen Halton) from Cleveland Browns for 2026 2nd round pick (58th overall, Emmanuel McNeil-Warren) and 2026 5th round pick (152nd overall subsequently traded, Justin Joly). The available record does not show enough separation to call a clear long-term winner.
Kansas City moved from No. 9 to No. 6 in the 2026 draft to select LSU cornerback Mansoor Delane, sending Cleveland picks 74 and 148 for the three-slot jump. Cleveland stayed in the top 10 and selected Utah tackle Spencer Fano at No. 9 while gaining two additional choices. Before the rookies have established NFL careers, the exchange remains balanced.
Cleveland Browns acquired Tytus Howard from Houston Texans for 2026 5th round pick (141st overall, Kamari Ramsey). Cleveland Browns received the stronger recorded football value, matching the Cleveland Browns Win verdict.
Cleveland Browns acquired 2026 6th round pick (206th overall subsequently traded, Alex Harkey) from Chicago Bears for Joe Tryon-Shoyinka and 2026 7th round pick (239th overall subsequently traded, Tommy Doman). The available record does not show enough separation to call a clear long-term winner.
Jacksonville acquired Greg Newsome II and a 2026 sixth-round pick from Cleveland for Tyson Campbell and a 2026 seventh. Newsome produced 29 tackles, six passes defensed and an interception in 12 Jaguars games. Campbell answered with 53 tackles, 12 passes defensed, an interception returned for a touchdown and a forced fumble in 12 Browns games. Cleveland received the stronger individual stat line, while Jacksonville improved the attached pick by a round.
Cleveland Browns acquired 2026 5th round pick (149th overall, Justin Jefferson) from Cincinnati Bengals for Joe Flacco and 2026 6th round pick (199th overall subsequently traded, Emmanuel Henderson). The available record does not show enough separation to call a clear long-term winner.
Cleveland Browns acquired Cam Robinson and a 2027 7th round pick from Houston Texans for a 2027 6th round pick. Cleveland Browns received the stronger recorded football value, matching the Cleveland Browns Win verdict.
Los Angeles Rams acquired a 2028 7th round pick from Cleveland Browns for KT Leveston. The overall result favors Cleveland Browns over Los Angeles Rams.
Cleveland Browns acquired 2026 5th round pick (141st overall subsequently traded, Kamari Ramsey) from Las Vegas Raiders for Kenny Pickett. The available record does not show enough separation to call a clear long-term winner.
Cleveland Browns acquired 2026 6th round pick (182nd overall, Taylen Green) from New York Jets for Jowon Briggs and 2026 7th round pick (242nd overall subsequently traded, Deven Eastern). The available record does not show enough separation to call a clear long-term winner.
Seattle Seahawks acquired 2025 5th round pick (166th overall, Tory Horton); 2025 6th round pick (192nd overall, Bryce Cabeldue) from Cleveland Browns for 2025 5th round pick (144th overall, Shedeur Sanders). The available record does not show enough separation to call a clear long-term winner.
Cleveland Browns acquired 2025 5th round pick (166th overall subsequently traded, Tory Horton) and a 2027 5th round pick from Houston Texans for 2025 6th round pick (179th overall subsequently traded, Ollie Gordon), 2025 6th round pick (216th overall subsequently traded, Jeremy Crawshaw) and 2025 7th round pick (255th overall, Luke Lachey). The available record does not show enough separation to call a clear long-term winner.
Jacksonville paid a premium to move from No. 5 to No. 2 in 2025 for two-way star Travis Hunter, also receiving Bhayshul Tuten and Rayuan Lane. Cleveland turned the move down into Mason Graham, Quinshon Judkins, Dylan Sampson and Jacksonville’s 2026 first-rounder, used on KC Concepcion. After one season, Cleveland has already produced more established NFL value, while Hunter’s ceiling keeps Jacksonville’s case very much alive.
Philadelphia Eagles acquired Dorian Thompson-Robinson and 2025 5th round pick (164th overall subsequently traded, Yahya Black) from Cleveland Browns for Kenny Pickett. The available record does not show enough separation to call a clear long-term winner.
Cleveland Browns acquired 2026 6th round pick (199th overall subsequently traded, Emmanuel Henderson); 2025 5th round pick (164th overall subsequently traded, Yahya Black) from Detroit Lions for Za'Darius Smith; 2026 7th round pick (222nd overall, Tyre West). The overall result favors Detroit Lions.
Buffalo acquired Amari Cooper and a 2025 sixth-round pick from Cleveland for a 2025 third and 2026 seventh. Cooper gave the Bills 20 catches, 297 yards and two touchdowns in nine regular-season games plus modest playoff production before leaving after the season. Cleveland used the third-rounder on quarterback Dillon Gabriel, who appeared in 10 games as a rookie. The lasting rookie-contract value now tilts this trade toward the Browns.
Cleveland Browns acquired 2025 6th round pick (192nd overall subsequently traded, Bryce Cabeldue) from Chicago Bears for Chris Williams and 2025 7th round pick (240th overall subsequently traded, Kaden Prather). The available record does not show enough separation to call a clear long-term winner.
Cleveland Browns acquired a conditional 2025 pick (7th round; not conveyed) from Washington Commanders for Cade York. The available record does not show enough separation to call a clear long-term winner.
Seattle acquired 2026 6th round pick (188th overall subsequently traded, Anez Cooper) from Cleveland Browns on 2024-08-11, sending Nick Harris; 2026 7th round pick (248th overall, Carsen Ryan) in return. The value case for Seattle comes down to the direct asset exchange: 2026 6th round pick (188th overall subsequently traded, Anez Cooper) for Nick Harris; 2026 7th round pick (248th overall, Carsen Ryan). There is no clear evidence of a major downstream swing, so the grade stays modest rather than inflated. For TradeVerdicts, this row matters because it preserves the transaction trail without overstating the long-term Seahawks impact.
Cleveland Browns acquired 2024 7th round pick (227th overall, Myles Harden) from Tennessee Titans for Leroy Watson. The stronger recorded return sits with Cleveland Browns, matching the Cleveland Browns Win verdict.
Cleveland acquired Jerry Jeudy from Denver for fifth- and sixth-round selections in the 2024 draft. The Broncos later moved those picks, while Jeudy immediately delivered a Pro Bowl season for Cleveland with 90 receptions and 1,229 yards in 2024. Turning two Day 3 selections into a prime-age receiver with that level of production gives the Browns a decisive hindsight advantage.
Cleveland Browns acquired 2025 6th round pick (204th overall subsequently traded, Ajani Cornelius) from Detroit Lions for Donovan Peoples-Jones. Cleveland Browns received the stronger recorded football value, matching the Cleveland Browns Win verdict.
Los Angeles Chargers acquired 2025 7th round pick (218th overall subsequently traded, Jack Nelson) from Cleveland Browns for Dustin Hopkins. The overall result favors Los Angeles/San Diego Chargers over Los Angeles Chargers.
Cleveland Browns acquired Pierre Strong from New England Patriots for Tyrone Wheatley Jr.. The available record does not show enough separation to call a clear long-term winner.
Cleveland Browns acquired 2024 5th round pick (156th overall, Jamari Thrash) from Arizona Cardinals for Joshua Dobbs and 2024 7th round pick (230th overall subsequently traded, Michael Jurgens). The available record does not show enough separation to call a clear long-term winner.
Cleveland acquired Za'Darius Smith plus 2025 sixth- and seventh-round picks from Minnesota for fifth-round selections in 2024 and 2025. Smith produced 10.5 sacks across 25 Browns games, then Cleveland traded him to Detroit and recovered a 2025 fifth plus a 2026 sixth. Minnesota used the 2024 fifth in its move up for J.J. McCarthy and the 2025 fifth on Tyrion Ingram-Dawkins. Cleveland extracted the stronger overall return.
Cleveland Browns acquired 2024 6th round pick (206th overall, Nathaniel Watson) from Baltimore Ravens for 2023 7th round pick (229th overall, Andrew Vorhees). The available record does not show enough separation to call a clear long-term winner.
Cleveland Browns acquired Elijah Moore and 2023 3rd round pick (74th overall, Cedric Tillman) from New York Jets for 2023 2nd round pick (42nd overall subsequently traded, Luke Musgrave). The stronger recorded return sits with Cleveland Browns, matching the Cleveland Browns Win verdict.
Cleveland acquired linebacker Deion Jones and a 2024 seventh-round pick from Atlanta for a 2024 sixth. Jones played 11 games with five starts in 2022, recording 44 tackles, 2.5 sacks, an interception and a forced fumble while injuries hit Cleveland's linebacker room. Atlanta used pick No. 197 on Zion Logue, who was waived before the 2024 regular season. Cleveland received the more useful football return, though the stakes were modest.
Carolina acquired Baker Mayfield from Cleveland in July 2022 for a conditional 2024 fifth-round pick. The condition tied to playing time did not rise to a fourth-rounder, but Mayfield still failed to stabilize the Panthers' quarterback situation and was released during the season. Cleveland recovered draft value for a quarterback it had already replaced, while Carolina paid for a short, unsuccessful stint that ended before the year was over.
Minnesota sent pick No. 156 and a 2023 fourth-rounder to Cleveland to move up for cornerback Akayleb Evans at No. 118. Cleveland used No. 156 on running back Jerome Ford and the future fourth on edge defender Isaiah McGuire. Evans gave Minnesota stretches of starting work, but Ford became a productive backfield contributor and McGuire added defensive rotation value. Two useful Browns for one inconsistent Vikings corner gives Cleveland the edge.
Los Angeles Rams acquired Troy Hill from Cleveland Browns for 2023 5th round pick (140th overall, Dorian Thompson-Robinson). The overall result favors Cleveland Browns over Los Angeles Rams.
Cleveland Browns acquired 2022 3rd round pick (68th overall, Martin Emerson), 2022 4th round pick (108th overall, Perrion Winfrey), and 2022 4th round pick (124th overall, Cade York) from Houston Texans for 2022 2nd round pick (44th overall, John Metchie). The stronger recorded return sits with Cleveland Browns, matching the Cleveland Browns Win verdict.
Buffalo Bills acquired Case Keenum from Cleveland Browns for 2022 7th round pick (246th overall, Dawson Deaton). The overall result favors Cleveland Browns over Buffalo Bills.
Cleveland's trade for Deshaun Watson became one of the most damaging modern blockbuster deals. The Browns surrendered a massive pick package and handed Watson a fully guaranteed contract, while Houston escaped the situation and rebuilt with premium assets. The Texans won decisively because Cleveland absorbed nearly all of the risk. It is one of the clearest modern examples of a team paying franchise-quarterback prices without receiving franchise-quarterback stability.
Cleveland Browns acquired Chase Winovich from New England Patriots for Mack Wilson. The available record does not show enough separation to call a clear long-term winner.
Cleveland acquired Amari Cooper and a sixth-round pick for late-round compensation. Cooper delivered consecutive 1,000-yard seasons and gave the Browns a true No. 1 receiver before Cleveland later recovered additional value in another trade. Dallas created salary flexibility but received limited on-field return from Matt Waletzko and Devin Harper.
Cleveland Browns acquired 2021 5th round pick (153rd overall, Tony Fields) and 2022 4th round pick (107th overall subsequently traded, Dameon Pierce) from Detroit Lions for 2021 4th round pick (113th overall, Derrick Barnes) and 2021 7th round pick (257th overall, Jermar Jefferson). The stronger recorded return sits with Detroit Lions, matching the Detroit Lions Win verdict.
Cleveland moved from No. 59 to No. 52 in the 2021 draft to select linebacker Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah, sending Carolina Nos. 52 and 113 for Nos. 59 and 89. Carolina selected Terrace Marshall at 59 and later moved the 89th pick, while Cleveland landed a high-impact linebacker who reached the Pro Bowl. Both sides created value, but Owusu-Koramoah gives Cleveland the narrow edge.
Jacksonville Jaguars acquired 2021 5th round pick (170th overall subsequently traded, Garret Wallow) from Cleveland Browns for Ronnie Harrison. Jacksonville Jaguars received the stronger recorded football value, matching the Jacksonville Jaguars Win verdict.
Indianapolis sent picks 44 and 160 to Cleveland to move up three spots for Jonathan Taylor. Taylor has become one of the defining running backs of his era, totaling 7,598 rushing yards and 69 rushing touchdowns through 2025, with a unanimous first-team All-Pro season and NFL rushing title in 2021. Cleveland landed long-term starting safety Grant Delpit and reserve lineman Nick Harris, giving the Browns a strong return but not enough to match Taylor.
New Orleans moved up to No. 74 for linebacker Zack Baun and also received pick No. 244, while Cleveland acquired No. 88 and a 2021 third-rounder. Baun never became a full-time defensive centerpiece during four Saints seasons, and his later All-Pro breakthrough came after he left for Philadelphia. Cleveland received useful snaps from Jordan Elliott, but Anthony Schwartz added little, leaving the direct results close.
Denver converted Andy Janovich into a 2021 seventh-round pick, a practical roster-management move with limited but positive value. Cleveland received the useful player, but the recorded hindsight edge stays slightly with Denver.
Cleveland Browns
Philadelphia Eagles acquired Genard Avery from Cleveland Browns for 2021 4th round pick (110th overall, James Hudson). The overall result favors Cleveland Browns over Philadelphia Eagles.
Los Angeles Rams acquired Austin Corbett from Cleveland Browns for 2021 5th round pick (169th overall, Richard LeCounte). The overall result favors Cleveland Browns over Los Angeles Rams.
Cleveland Browns acquired Taywan Taylor from Tennessee Titans for 2020 7th round pick (224th overall, Cole McDonald). The overall result favors Houston Oilers/Tennessee Titans over Cleveland Browns.
Cleveland received Jordan McCray and the future seventh-round asset tied to Nate Stanley, while Green Bay received the future seventh tied to Vernon Scott. The Browns kept the stronger package.
Cleveland received the future seventh tied to Isaiah Thomas, while Detroit received David Blough and a future seventh later included in the Trinity Benson transaction with Denver; Denver later moved it to Green Bay, which selected Jonathan Ford. The Lions kept the better value side.
Buffalo traded Wyatt Teller and a 2021 seventh-round pick to Cleveland for 2020 fifth- and sixth-round selections. Teller became an elite guard for the Browns, earning repeated Pro Bowl and All-Pro recognition. Buffalo’s return was far better than the original grade suggests, however: the fifth-rounder was included in the Stefon Diggs package and the sixth-rounder became kicker Tyler Bass. Cleveland still landed the best direct player, but both teams created major value.
Cleveland Browns acquired 2020 3rd round pick (97th overall, Jacob Phillips) from Houston Texans for Duke Johnson. Cleveland Browns received the stronger recorded football value, matching the Cleveland Browns Win verdict.
Kansas City traded safety Eric Murray to Cleveland for defensive end Emmanuel Ogbah in April 2019. The swap exchanged two former second-day defensive picks entering the final year of their rookie contracts, with each club targeting a position of greater need. The Kansas City Chiefs produced the stronger realized return, supporting the Kansas City Chiefs Win verdict.
Cleveland acquired Odell Beckham Jr. from the Giants in exchange for Jabrill Peppers, the 17th pick in the 2019 draft and a third-round pick. Beckham produced one 1,000-yard season for the Browns but never became the transformational piece Cleveland expected. The Giants used the first-rounder on Dexter Lawrence, who developed into a multiple-time Pro Bowl defensive tackle.
The Giants and Browns completed a veteran-for-veteran swap centered on guard Kevin Zeitler and edge defender Olivier Vernon. New York strengthened the interior offensive line, while Cleveland added a proven pass rusher to a defense being rebuilt around Myles Garrett. The realized returns remain close enough that neither club separates from an Even Trade verdict.
Jacksonville Jaguars acquired Carlos Hyde from Cleveland Browns for 2019 5th round pick (144th overall; traded with pick 49 to Indianapolis for pick 46, Greedy Williams; Indianapolis selected Marvell Tell at 144). The overall result favors Cleveland Browns over Jacksonville Jaguars.
Cleveland Browns acquired 2019 5th round pick (170th overall, Austin Seibert) from New England Patriots for Josh Gordon and 2019 7th round pick (243rd overall subsequently traded, Nick Scott). The available record does not show enough separation to call a clear long-term winner.
New Orleans Saints acquired 2019 7th round pick (231st overall, Alize Mack) from Cleveland Browns for Devaroe Lawrence. New Orleans Saints received the stronger recorded football value, matching the New Orleans Saints Win verdict.
San Francisco 49ers acquired Shon Coleman from Cleveland Browns for 2019 7th round pick (243rd overall subsequently traded, Nick Scott). The overall result favors Cleveland Browns over San Francisco 49ers.
Buffalo Bills acquired Corey Coleman from Cleveland Browns for 2020 7th round pick (236th overall subsequently traded, Vernon Scott). The overall result favors Cleveland Browns over Buffalo Bills.
Cleveland Browns acquired 2020 6th round pick (187th overall, Donovan Peoples-Jones) from Arizona Cardinals for Jamar Taylor. The available record does not show enough separation to call a clear long-term winner.
Cleveland Browns acquired 2018 4th round pick (105th overall, Antonio Callaway) from New England Patriots for 2018 4th round pick (114th overall subsequently traded, Da'Shawn Hand) and 2018 6th round pick (178th overall, Christian Sam). The available record does not show enough separation to call a clear long-term winner.
Cleveland Browns acquired 2018 3rd round pick (67th overall, Chad Thomas) and 2018 6th round pick (178th overall subsequently traded, Christian Sam) from Indianapolis Colts for 2018 2nd round pick (64th overall, Tyquan Lewis). The available record does not show enough separation to call a clear long-term winner.
Cleveland Browns acquired 2018 6th round pick (205th overall; traded with Kevin Hogan to Washington for pick 188; Washington later moved it to the Rams, which selected Trevon Young) from New England Patriots for Jason McCourty and 2018 7th round pick (219th overall, Danny Etling). The available record does not show enough separation to call a clear long-term winner.
Buffalo traded Tyrod Taylor to Cleveland for the first pick of the third round, No. 65, creating valuable draft flexibility while moving on at quarterback. The Bills later packaged No. 65 with No. 22 to climb to No. 16 for linebacker Tremaine Edmunds. Taylor opened 2018 as Cleveland’s starter but made only three starts before Baker Mayfield took over, leaving Buffalo with the stronger long-term return.
Cleveland landed Damarious Randall plus the later picks tied to Da'Shawn Hand and Genard Avery, while Green Bay received DeShone Kizer and two later pick outcomes. Cleveland's side produced the better value.
Cleveland moved Danny Shelton and a fifth-rounder for a future third-round pick. New England received useful defensive-line depth, but Cleveland's draft-capital return was the stronger side.
Cleveland acquired wide receiver Jarvis Landry from Miami for the No. 123 pick in 2018 and a 2019 seventh-round selection. Cleveland acquired Jarvis Landry and immediately extended him. Landry became a central part of the Browns' offensive rebuild and delivered four seasons of high-volume receiving and leadership. Miami turned the picks into Durham Smythe and Myles Gaskin, both useful contributors, so the Dolphins did receive real value. Landry's sustained impact and role in Cleveland's turnaround still give the Browns the edge.
Pittsburgh Steelers acquired 2018 6th round pick (202nd overall subsequently traded, Jack Cichy) from Cleveland Browns for Sammie Coates and 2019 7th round pick (234th overall subsequently traded, Myles Gaskin). The available record does not show enough separation to call a clear long-term winner.
Kansas City Chiefs acquired Cam Erving from Cleveland Browns for 2018 5th round pick (159th overall subsequently traded, Daurice Fountain). The overall result favors Cleveland Browns over Kansas City Chiefs.
Cleveland Browns acquired Calvin Pryor from New York Jets for DeMario Davis. The overall result favors New York Jets over Cleveland Browns.
Cleveland received the picks used on Roderick Johnson and Zane Gonzalez, while New York received the picks used on Dylan Donahue and Elijah McGuire. Cleveland kept the slightly better value side.
Denver received the picks used on Jake Butt and DeAngelo Yancey, while Cleveland received the picks used on Howard Wilson and Matthew Dayes. The outcomes stay close enough for an Even Trade.
Houston traded up from No. 25 to No. 12 in 2017 for quarterback Deshaun Watson, sending Cleveland the 25th pick plus its 2018 first-rounder. Cleveland turned those selections into Jabrill Peppers and Denzel Ward, with Ward becoming a perennial Pro Bowl cornerback. Watson became a three-time Pro Bowler in Houston, led the NFL in passing yards in 2020, and later generated an enormous trade return for the Texans.
Cleveland Browns acquired 2017 1st round pick (29th overall, David Njoku) from Green Bay Packers for 2017 2nd round pick (33rd overall, Kevin King) and 2017 4th round pick (108th overall, Vince Biegel). The overall result favors Green Bay Packers over Cleveland Browns.
Cleveland Browns acquired Brock Osweiler, 2017 6th round pick (188th overall subsequently traded, Elijah McGuire) and 2018 2nd round pick (35th overall, Nick Chubb) from Houston Texans for 2017 4th round pick (142nd overall, Carlos Watkins). Cleveland Browns received the stronger recorded football value, matching the Cleveland Browns Win verdict.
The Jamie Collins trade became another example of New England moving a talented player before the market fully adjusted. Cleveland acquired Collins for a conditional draft pick, hoping to add a high-upside defensive centerpiece. The Browns got a useful player, but the Patriots gained value, protected their system, and still won the broader roster-management decision. It remains a priority indexing page because Collins is a classic Patriots sell-before-the-market-adjusts example.
Pittsburgh Steelers acquired Justin Gilbert from Cleveland Browns for 2018 6th round pick (202nd overall subsequently traded, Jack Cichy). Pittsburgh Steelers received the stronger recorded football value, matching the Pittsburgh Steelers Win verdict.
Carolina acquired veteran punter Andy Lee and a 2017 seventh-round pick for Kasey Redfern and a 2018 fourth. Lee punted well but lasted only nine games before a hamstring injury ended his season, and Carolina released him the next year. The seventh became Harrison Butker, whom the Panthers waived before his NFL success elsewhere, leaving only a short-lived return.
Cleveland Browns acquired 2017 5th round pick (175th overall subsequently traded, DeAngelo Yancey) from New England Patriots for Barkevious Mingo. Cleveland Browns received the stronger recorded football value, matching the Cleveland Browns Win verdict.
This remains an even trade. The final grade profile (Cleveland Browns C, Las Vegas Raiders C) shows a balanced result, with neither side creating enough separation to claim a clear win.
Miami sent cornerback Jamar Taylor and a late seventh-round pick to Cleveland for a slightly earlier seventh-round selection. The exact pick numbering differs across historical draft references because of forfeited-pick accounting, but the substance is simple: Cleveland acquired Taylor for almost no draft cost. He started 14 games and intercepted three passes in his first Browns season, while Miami gained little from the pick swap.
Carolina moved up from No. 93 to No. 77 in the 2016 third round and also received pick No. 141, selecting Daryl Worley and Zack Sanchez. Worley became a two-year starter for the Panthers before leaving in 2018, while Sanchez had a small role. The package produced useful but limited value, matching Cleveland's modest return closely enough to keep the deal balanced.
Tennessee Titans come out ahead in this trade. The final grade profile (Cleveland Browns C+, Tennessee Titans B+) supports the existing verdict and gives the winning side the cleaner value result.
Philadelphia paid a major multi-year package to move from No. 8 to No. 2 for Carson Wentz. Wentz produced an MVP-caliber 2017 season that helped secure home-field advantage for the Eagles' first Super Bowl title, then Philadelphia later recovered premium value in trading him. Cleveland collected extensive draft capital, but the conversion produced mixed long-term results.
San Francisco 49ers come out ahead in this trade. The final grade profile (San Francisco 49ers C+, Cleveland Browns C) supports the existing verdict and gives the winning side the cleaner value result.
Arizona Cardinals acquired 2015 4th round pick (116th overall, Rodney Gunter) from Cleveland Browns for 2015 4th round pick (123rd overall, Vince Mayle), 2015 6th round pick (198th overall, Randall Telfer) and 2015 7th round pick (241st overall, Ifo Ekpre-Olomu). Arizona Cardinals received the stronger long-term football value, matching the Arizona Cardinals Win verdict.
Houston Texans come out ahead in this trade. The final grade profile (Cleveland Browns C+, Houston Texans B) supports the existing verdict and gives the winning side the cleaner value result.
This remains an even trade. The final grade profile (Cleveland Browns C, New England Patriots C) shows a balanced result, with neither side creating enough separation to claim a clear win.
This remains an even trade. The final grade profile (Cleveland Browns C, Baltimore Ravens C) shows a balanced result, with neither side creating enough separation to claim a clear win.
Buffalo paid a premium to move from No. 9 to No. 4 for Sammy Watkins, but Watkins delivered 2,459 receiving yards and 17 touchdowns in three Bills seasons before being traded for E.J. Gaines and a 2018 second-round pick. Cleveland received No. 9 plus 2015 first- and fourth-rounders, yet the chain produced Justin Gilbert, Cameron Erving and Ibraheim Campbell with limited Browns impact. Hindsight favors Buffalo despite the expensive original price.
Minnesota paid a fifth-round pick to move from No. 9 to No. 8 and selected Anthony Barr, who became an eight-year defensive cornerstone and four-time Pro Bowler for the Vikings. Cleveland used the ninth pick on Justin Gilbert, whose Browns tenure lasted only two seasons, while the extra fifth became David Yankey for Minnesota. The enormous gap between Barr and Gilbert makes this a decisive Vikings victory.
Philadelphia moved down from No. 22 to No. 26 in the 2014 first round and added third-round value, while Cleveland moved up for Johnny Manziel. Neither side turned the exchange into the expected first-round value. This grades as even.
San Francisco 49ers acquired 2014 4th round pick (106th overall, Bruce Ellington) and 2014 6th round pick (180th overall, Kenneth Acker) from Cleveland Browns for 2014 3rd round pick (94th overall, Terrance West). The available record does not show enough separation to call a clear long-term winner.
The Trent Richardson trade became a textbook sell-high win for Cleveland. The Browns moved a former No. 3 overall running back to Indianapolis for a first-round pick before Richardson's value fully collapsed. The Colts were chasing immediate help for Andrew Luck, but Richardson struggled badly and never justified the premium cost. It remains a priority indexing page because Richardson's collapse is one of the clearest modern running-back trade lessons.
Cleveland Browns acquired 2014 4th round pick (127th overall, Pierre Desir) from Indianapolis Colts for 2013 5th round pick (139th overall, Montori Hughes). The available record does not show enough separation to call a clear long-term winner.
Pittsburgh Steelers acquired 2013 4th round pick (111th overall, Shamarko Thomas) from Cleveland Browns for 2014 3rd round pick (83rd overall subsequently traded, Louis Nix). The available record does not show enough separation to call a clear long-term winner.
Miami sent veteran receiver Davone Bess plus two later picks to Cleveland and received picks No. 104 and 164, which became linebacker Jelani Jenkins and running back Mike Gillislee. Jenkins developed into a multi-year Dolphins starter, giving Miami the best direct return. Bess lasted one season in Cleveland, while Armonty Bryant provided some defensive production. The Dolphins’ longer-lasting starting value creates the edge.
Philadelphia Eagles acquired Emmanuel Acho from Cleveland Browns for Dion Lewis. The available record does not show enough separation to call a clear long-term winner.
San Francisco 49ers acquired Colt McCoy and 2013 6th round pick (173rd overall subsequently traded, Vinston Painter) from Cleveland Browns for 2013 5th round pick (164th overall subsequently traded, Mike Gillislee) and 2013 7th round pick (227th overall, Garrett Gilkey). The available record does not show enough separation to call a clear long-term winner.
Philadelphia Eagles acquired David Sims and 2013 7th round pick (212th overall, Joe Kruger) from Cleveland Browns for 2013 6th round pick (173rd overall subsequently traded, Vinston Painter). The available record does not show enough separation to call a clear long-term winner.
Denver sent picks No. 87 and No. 120 to Cleveland to jump twenty spots for Ronnie Hillman at No. 67. Hillman became a useful four-year Broncos runner and led the 2015 Super Bowl champions in regular-season rushing. Cleveland used its selections on John Hughes and James-Michael Johnson, with Hughes developing into a rotational defensive tackle. The Browns found some value, but Hillman's role on a championship offense gives Denver the edge.
Minnesota moved down one spot from No. 3 to No. 4 and still drafted Matt Kalil, while Cleveland paid picks No. 118, 139 and 211 to secure Trent Richardson. Kalil made the Pro Bowl as a rookie, Jarius Wright became a useful receiver and Robert Blanton contributed in the secondary. Richardson had a strong rookie year but lasted only 17 games with Cleveland before being traded, making Minnesota's haul substantially stronger.
Cleveland Browns acquired Brodrick Bunkley (voided due to failed physical) from Philadelphia Eagles for 2012 5th round pick. The available record does not show enough separation to call a clear long-term winner.
Cleveland Browns received John Greco. Los Angeles Rams received conditional 2012 pick (not conveyed). The final review favors Cleveland Browns because that return produced stronger practical football value.
Cleveland sent two sixth-round picks to Minnesota to move up to No. 150 for guard Jason Pinkston. Pinkston started 24 games for the Browns before a serious blood-clot issue shortened his career. Minnesota selected DeMarcus Love and Mistral Raymond; Raymond supplied defensive and special-teams depth, while Love never appeared in a regular-season game. Cleveland's short-lived starter gives the Browns a narrow edge.
Atlanta paid Cleveland five draft choices to move from No. 27 to No. 6 in 2011 and select Julio Jones. The price was enormous, but Jones became a franchise icon, seven-time Pro Bowler and two-time first-team All-Pro who helped Atlanta reach Super Bowl LI. Cleveland turned the package into several players and additional moves, but none approached Jones's impact. The Falcons' aggressive bet delivered a true superstar and ultimately wins the trade.
Kansas City moved down from No. 21 to No. 26 in the 2011 draft and added the 70th pick, sending Cleveland the selection used on Phil Taylor. The Chiefs took Jonathan Baldwin at 26 and Justin Houston at 70. Baldwin was a major miss, but Houston became a four-time Pro Bowler and one of the league's premier pass rushers. Taylor gave Cleveland useful early seasons, yet Houston's career makes Kansas City the clear winner.
Philadelphia Eagles acquired Jerome Harrison from Cleveland Browns for Mike Bell. The available record does not show enough separation to call a clear long-term winner.
Minnesota traded reserve defensive end Jayme Mitchell to Cleveland for a 2012 sixth-round pick that became kicker Blair Walsh. Mitchell did not play for Cleveland in 2010 and lasted only one active Browns season. Walsh made the Pro Bowl as a rookie, set an NFL record with 10 field goals from 50-plus yards in 2012 and kicked for Minnesota for five seasons. The Vikings turned expendable depth into a major special-teams return.
Philadelphia Eagles acquired 2010 3rd round pick (71st overall subsequently traded, Morgan Burnett), 2010 5th round pick (134th overall, Ricky Sapp) and 2010 5th round pick (146th overall subsequently traded, Cam Thomas) from Cleveland Browns for 2010 2nd round pick (59th overall, Montario Hardesty). The available record does not show enough separation to call a clear long-term winner.
Philadelphia Eagles acquired Alex Hall, 2010 4th round pick (105th overall, Trevard Lindley) and 2010 5th round pick (137th overall subsequently traded, Perrish Cox) from Cleveland Browns for Sheldon Brown and Chris Gocong. Philadelphia Eagles received the stronger recorded football value, matching the Philadelphia Eagles Win verdict.
Denver Broncos received Brady Quinn. Cleveland Browns received Peyton Hillis, 2011 6th round pick (168th overall subsequently traded, Demarcus Love) and 2012 5th round pick (160th overall, Ryan Miller). The final review favors Cleveland Browns because that return produced stronger practical football value.
Oakland sent Cleveland a third-round pick for linebacker Kamerion Wimbley and immediately received two productive starting seasons. Wimbley recorded nine sacks in 2010 and seven more in 2011 before leaving after a contract dispute. Cleveland used the 85th pick on quarterback Colt McCoy, who started 21 games for the Browns and remained in the NFL for years. Oakland still gained the stronger peak value, but Cleveland's return deserves credit.
Seattle Seahawks received 2011 7th round pick (209th overall subsequently traded, Johnny Culbreath). Cleveland Browns received Seneca Wallace. The final review favors Cleveland Browns because that return produced stronger practical football value.
Cleveland Browns received 2010 5th round pick (146th overall subsequently traded, Cam Thomas) and 2010 7th round pick (214th overall subsequently traded, Mickey Shuler). Detroit Lions received Corey Williams and 2010 7th round pick. The final review favors Cleveland Browns because that return produced stronger practical football value.
Cleveland Browns
Cleveland Browns acquired Chansi Stuckey, Jason Trusnik and 2009 3rd round pick from New York Jets for Braylon Edwards. The overall result favors New York Jets over Cleveland Browns.
The existing package incorrectly labels Cleveland's return as a 2009 third-round pick. Carolina actually sent a 2010 sixth-round choice, No. 186, for defensive tackle Louis Leonard. Leonard played four Panthers games across 2009 and 2010 and made one start before injuries and roster turnover ended his stay. Cleveland selected Clifton Geathers at No. 186, but he never appeared in a regular-season game for the Browns.
Cleveland Browns acquired Kenyon Coleman, Abram Elam, Brett Ratliff, 2009 1st round pick (17th overall subsequently traded, Josh Freeman) and 2009 2nd round pick (52nd overall, David Veikune) from New York Jets for 2009 1st round pick (5th overall, Mark Sanchez). Cleveland Browns received the stronger recorded football value, matching the Cleveland Browns Win verdict.
Philadelphia Eagles acquired 2009 1st round pick (19th overall, Jeremy Maclin) from Cleveland Browns for 2009 1st round pick (21st overall, Alex Mack) and 2009 6th round pick (195th overall, James Davis). The overall result favors Cleveland Browns over Philadelphia Eagles.
Tampa Bay moved from No. 19 to No. 17 and spent a sixth-round pick to secure quarterback Josh Freeman. Freeman gave the Buccaneers one excellent 2010 season and several years as the starter, but the relationship unraveled by 2013. Cleveland received No. 19 and No. 191, then moved down again and selected seven-time Pro Bowl center Alex Mack at No. 21. Mack's sustained elite play makes the Browns the stronger long-term winner.
Tampa Bay acquired Kellen Winslow from Cleveland for a 2009 second-round pick and a 2010 fifth-rounder. Winslow immediately set a Buccaneers single-season record for a tight end and produced 218 catches, 2,377 yards and 12 touchdowns over three seasons. Cleveland used the second-rounder on Mohamed Massaquoi and later moved the fifth-round pick, creating useful but less impactful value than Tampa received.
Miami Dolphins acquired an undisclosed 2008 draft pick from Cleveland Browns for Travis Daniels. The available record does not show enough separation to call a clear long-term winner.
Dallas Cowboys received 2008 4th round pick (122nd overall, Tashard Choice) and 2008 5th round pick (155th overall subsequently traded, Thomas Williams). Cleveland Browns received 2008 4th round pick (104th overall, Beau Bell). The final review favors Dallas Cowboys because that return produced stronger practical football value.
Philadelphia Eagles acquired 2009 5th round pick (141st overall subsequently traded, Kenny McKinley) from Cleveland Browns for 2008 6th round pick (191st overall, Paul Hubbard). The available record does not show enough separation to call a clear long-term winner.
Cleveland acquired three-time Pro Bowl defensive tackle Shaun Rogers from Detroit for cornerback Leigh Bodden and a third-round pick used on Andre Fluellen. Rogers immediately made the 2008 Pro Bowl, started all 16 games and posted 76 tackles with 4.5 sacks. Bodden lasted only one season in Detroit, while Fluellen became a long-term rotational lineman, leaving the Browns with the higher-impact return.
Cleveland Browns acquired Corey Williams from Green Bay Packers for 2008 2nd round pick (56th overall, Brian Brohm). Cleveland Browns received the stronger recorded football value, matching the Cleveland Browns Win verdict.
Seattle Seahawks acquired Charlie Frye from Cleveland Browns for an undisclosed 2007 draft pick. The available record does not show enough separation to call a clear long-term winner.
Dallas Cowboys acquired 2007 6th round pick (195th overall, Deon Anderson) from Cleveland Browns for 2007 6th round pick (200th overall, Melila Purcell) and 2007 7th round pick (234th overall, Syndric Steptoe). The available record does not show enough separation to call a clear long-term winner.
Cleveland traded its 2007 second-round pick and 2008 first-rounder to Dallas for No. 22 and selected quarterback Brady Quinn. Quinn never became the Browns' long-term starter. Dallas later packaged the 2007 second-rounder with other picks to move up for linebacker Anthony Spencer, and the 2008 first-rounder became Felix Jones. Spencer developed into a Pro Bowl defender and Jones became a productive offensive contributor, giving Dallas a decisive win.
New York Giants acquired Reuben Droughns from Cleveland Browns for Tim Carter. The available record does not show enough separation to call a clear long-term winner.
Philadelphia Eagles acquired 2008 7th round pick from Cleveland Browns for Hank Fraley. Philadelphia Eagles received the stronger recorded football value, matching the Philadelphia Eagles Win verdict.
Cleveland Browns acquired Lennie Friedman from Chicago Bears for 2007 7th round pick (221st overall, Trumaine McBride). The overall result favors Chicago Bears over Cleveland Browns.
Cleveland Browns acquired Therrian Fontenot from Green Bay Packers for Carlton Brewster. The available record does not show enough separation to call a clear long-term winner.
Cleveland Browns acquired Derrick Strait from New York Jets for Lee Suggs. The available record does not show enough separation to call a clear long-term winner.
Cleveland Browns acquired Ross Tucker from New England Patriots for 2007 5th round pick. The overall result favors New England Patriots over Cleveland Browns.
San Francisco acquired Trent Dilfer from Cleveland for Ken Dorsey and draft consideration. Dilfer gave the 49ers the slightly more useful quarterback value, making this a narrow San Francisco win.
Baltimore moved up one spot from No. 13 to No. 12 in the 2006 draft and selected Haloti Ngata, sending Cleveland the 13th pick plus No. 181. The Browns landed Kamerion Wimbley and Babatunde Oshinowo. Wimbley became a productive edge defender, but Ngata developed into a five-time Pro Bowler, two-time first-team All-Pro and Super Bowl champion.
New Orleans sent the 34th pick to Cleveland and received center Jeff Faine and No. 43, which became safety Roman Harper. Faine immediately stabilized the Saints' offensive line, while Harper became a two-time Pro Bowler, Super Bowl XLIV champion and long-time defensive leader. Cleveland used No. 34 on linebacker D'Qwell Jackson, who developed into a tackling machine and franchise cornerstone, making this a genuine win-win exchange.
Atlanta Falcons acquired Chris Crocker from Cleveland Browns for 2006 4th round pick (112th overall, Isaac Sowells). The overall result favors Cleveland Browns over Atlanta Falcons.
Minnesota and Cleveland exchanged offensive linemen just before the 2005 season, with the Vikings receiving center Melvin Fowler and the Browns taking tackle Nat Dorsey. Fowler started nine of his 10 games for Minnesota and filled an immediate need. Dorsey remained with Cleveland for three seasons but started only twice there. The difference is modest, yet Minnesota received the more useful on-field contribution from the swap.
Cleveland Browns acquired an undisclosed 2006 draft pick from New England Patriots for Andre Davis. The available record does not show enough separation to call a clear long-term winner.
Tampa Bay sent the 203rd pick in the 2005 draft to Cleveland for second-year quarterback Luke McCown. McCown became a multi-year Buccaneers backup and made several starts, including a productive three-start stretch in 2007. Cleveland used the pick on defensive tackle Andrew Hoffman, who never played a regular-season NFL game, so Tampa Bay clearly received the only meaningful football value.
Denver Broncos received Ebenezer Ekuban and Michael Myers. Cleveland Browns received Reuben Droughns. The final review keeps this as an even trade because neither return separates enough for a win/loss label.
Seattle moved veteran backup quarterback Trent Dilfer to Cleveland for the 126th pick in the 2005 draft. The Browns received 11 starts from Dilfer, but Seattle later combined pick No. 126 with Nos. 54 and 121 to move up for linebacker Lofa Tatupu. Because that choice helped produce a cornerstone defender for the Seahawks' Super Bowl team, Seattle owns the stronger long-term return.
Denver Broncos received Gerard Warren. Cleveland Browns received 2005 4th round pick (126th overall subsequently traded, Todd Herremans). The final review favors Denver Broncos because that return produced stronger practical football value.
Dallas and Cleveland swapped wide receivers Antonio Bryant and Quincy Morgan in October 2004. Morgan gave the Cowboys 22 catches for 260 yards in nine games and was gone before the next season developed. Bryant immediately became a larger part of Cleveland’s offense, then posted 69 catches for 1,009 yards in 2005. The Browns turned a struggling fit into a legitimate 1,000-yard receiver, making Cleveland the clear winner.
Cleveland moved up one spot from No. 7 to No. 6 for tight end Kellen Winslow, giving Detroit the 37th pick as the premium. Winslow eventually made a Pro Bowl and produced 3,106 receiving yards in five Browns seasons, but injuries cost him most of his first two years. The extra price became linebacker Teddy Lehman, making the move expensive even though Winslow became productive.
Cleveland Browns acquired 2004 2nd round pick (59th overall, Sean Jones) and 2004 5th round pick (161st overall, Amon Gordon) from Indianapolis Colts for 2004 3rd round pick (68th overall, Ben Hartsock), 2004 5th round pick (141st overall, Jake Scott) and 2004 6th round pick (173rd overall, Von Hutchins). The overall result favors Baltimore/Indianapolis Colts over Cleveland Browns.
Buffalo Bills acquired Mark Campbell from Cleveland Browns for an undisclosed 2004 draft pick. The available record does not show enough separation to call a clear long-term winner.
Los Angeles Chargers acquired 2003 7th round pick (236th overall subsequently traded, Brandon Drumm) from Cleveland Browns for Steve Heiden. The overall result favors Los Angeles/San Diego Chargers over Los Angeles Chargers.
Cleveland moved up to the 122nd pick in 2002 and selected tight end Darnell Sanders, sending the Raiders picks Nos. 147 and 189. The Raiders chose Kenyon Coleman and Keyon Nash. Coleman later built a long NFL career, but almost all of that value came after leaving Oakland; Sanders was a modest contributor for Cleveland. Because neither club captured meaningful lasting value from its own return, the trade grades evenly.
Jacksonville Jaguars acquired Wali Rainer and 2002 3rd round pick (79th overall subsequently traded, Rashad Bauman) from Cleveland Browns for 2002 3rd round pick (76th overall, Melvin Fowler). The available record does not show enough separation to call a clear long-term winner.
Miami Dolphins acquired a conditional 2004 pick (not conveyed) from Cleveland Browns for J.J. Johnson. The available record does not show enough separation to call a clear long-term winner.
Cleveland traded defensive end Stalin Colinet and a 2002 seventh-round pick to Minnesota on October 16, 2001, receiving the Vikings’ 2003 fifth-round selection. Minnesota got 11 games and one sack from Colinet before his tenure ended. Cleveland used the fifth-rounder at No. 142 on long snapper Ryan Pontbriand, who became a durable two-time Pro Bowl specialist for the Browns.
Cleveland Browns acquired 2002 4th round pick (101st overall, Kevin Bentley) from Detroit Lions for Ty Detmer. Cleveland Browns received the stronger recorded football value, matching the Cleveland Browns Win verdict.
Cleveland turned Spergon Wynn, Travis Prentice and a seventh-round selection into a 2002 fifth-round pick. Minnesota needed immediate depth, but Wynn struggled in two starts, Prentice contributed little as a runner, and Chad Beasley provided no meaningful NFL return. Without assigning the fifth-rounder to a disputed downstream selection, Cleveland still extracted the stronger asset value.
Dallas Cowboys acquired Darrin Chiaverini from Cleveland Browns for 2002 7th round pick (227th overall, Joaquin Gonzalez). The overall result favors Cleveland Browns over Dallas Cowboys.
Minnesota reacquired veteran lineman Everett Lindsay from Cleveland on August 15, 2001, sending the Browns a 2002 fifth-round pick that became linebacker Andra Davis at No. 141. Lindsay gave the Vikings 44 games and 13 starts over three seasons. Davis became a seven-year Cleveland contributor and longtime starter, giving the Browns substantially more durable value from the exchange.
Chicago Bears received 2000 7th round pick (223rd overall, James Cotton), 2000 7th round pick (232nd overall subsequently traded, Jeff Harris) and 2000 7th round pick (254th overall, Michael Green). Cleveland Browns received 2000 7th round pick (209th overall, Eric Chandler) and 2000 7th round pick (225th overall, Rashidi Barnes). The final review favors Chicago Bears because that return produced stronger practical football value.
Cleveland Browns
Miami traded running back Karim Abdul-Jabbar to Cleveland at the 1999 deadline for a 2000 sixth-round pick. Abdul-Jabbar had already produced three 1,000-yard seasons in Miami but was nearing the end of his career. Cleveland received only a short-term backfield option, while Miami used the pick on Ernest Grant, a defensive tackle who played 24 NFL games. Neither side generated major lasting value.
Minnesota acquired veteran nose tackle Jerry Ball from Cleveland on September 29, 1999, sending defensive lineman Stalin Colinet and a 2000 seventh-round pick. Ball started 10 of 13 games for the Vikings and helped a playoff team before retiring after the season. Cleveland received the younger Colinet, who started nine games immediately and 16 more in 2000, giving the expansion Browns useful multi-season value as well.
Cleveland Browns acquired Sedrick Shaw from New England Patriots for (past considerations). The available record does not show enough separation to call a clear long-term winner.
Chicago Bears received 1999 6th round pick (184th overall, Rashard Cook) and 1999 7th round pick (221st overall, Sulecio Sanford). Cleveland Browns received 1999 6th round pick (174th overall, Marcus Spriggs). The final review favors Chicago Bears because that return produced stronger practical football value.
Seattle Seahawks acquired 1999 6th round pick (170th overall, Steve Johnson) from Cleveland Browns for 1999 6th round pick (187th overall, Kendall Ogle); 1999 6th round pick (187th overall, Kendall Ogle) and 1999 6th round pick (191st overall, James Dearth). The available record does not show enough separation to call a clear long-term winner.
San Francisco acquired a 1999 fourth-round pick from Cleveland for Marc Edwards. The draft return gave the 49ers the slightly better value in a close exchange.
San Francisco acquired 1999 fourth- and fifth-round draft value from Cleveland for Ty Detmer. The 49ers received the cleaner asset return and win modestly.
Buffalo Bills received past considerations. Cleveland Browns received Chris Spielman. The final review keeps this as an even trade because neither return separates enough for a win/loss label.
Cleveland Browns acquired Roy Barker and Irv Smith from San Francisco 49ers for (past considerations). The available record does not show enough separation to call a clear long-term winner.
Carolina Panthers acquired (past considerations) from Cleveland Browns for Michael Bates. The available record does not show enough separation to call a clear long-term winner.
Philadelphia Eagles acquired Ronnie Dixon from Cleveland Browns for 1996 7th round pick (238th overall subsequently traded, Jon Stark). The overall result favors Cleveland Browns over Philadelphia Eagles.
Jacksonville Jaguars acquired 1995 4th round pick (123rd overall, Mike Thompson) from Cleveland Browns for 1995 5th round pick (136th overall, Tau Pupua) and 1996 6th round pick (186th overall subsequently traded, James Roe). The available record does not show enough separation to call a clear long-term winner.
Philadelphia Eagles acquired 1995 4th round pick (119th overall, Dave Barr) from Cleveland Browns for 1995 5th round pick (147th overall, Mike Miller) and 1996 5th round pick (157th overall subsequently traded, Kenneth McDaniel). The available record does not show enough separation to call a clear long-term winner.
Cleveland moved up six spots in the third round of the 1995 draft for quarterback Eric Zeier, sending Green Bay picks 90 and 160. Zeier made 12 NFL starts and went 4-8. The Packers used No. 90 on Antonio Freeman, who became Brett Favre’s top receiver, caught 61 career touchdowns and starred on a Super Bowl champion. Green Bay also received the extra fifth-round pick, making the trade a major Packers win.
San Francisco jumped from No. 30 to No. 10 for wide receiver J.J. Stokes, sending Cleveland its 1995 first-, third- and fourth-round picks plus a 1996 first-rounder. Stokes had a respectable 118-game career, but the future first became No. 26 in 1996 and was used by the relocated franchise on Ray Lewis. The extraordinary package makes Cleveland's side the decisive winner.
Atlanta Falcons and Cleveland Browns completed this exchange on 1995-03-25. Atlanta paid the 10th pick in the 1995 draft to acquire Eric Metcalf and Cleveland's 26th pick. Metcalf's established versatility and Bush's multi-year starting role gave Atlanta two useful assets from one premium pick. The stronger overall return belongs to Atlanta Falcons. The grades reflect direct team value plus clearly traceable use of any acquired pick that was later traded.
New Orleans Saints acquired 1996 5th round pick (136th overall, Mercury Hayes) from Cleveland Browns for Reggie Jones. New Orleans Saints received the stronger recorded football value, matching the New Orleans Saints Win verdict.
Cleveland Browns received 1996 7th round pick (238th overall subsequently traded, Jon Stark) and gave up Ronnie Dixon. The recorded return remains close enough to support an Even Trade verdict.
Philadelphia Eagles acquired 1994 2nd round pick (40th overall subsequently traded, David Palmer) and 1995 2nd round pick (58th overall, Barrett Brooks) from Cleveland Browns for 1994 1st round pick (29th overall, Derrick Alexander). The available record does not show enough separation to call a clear long-term winner.
Los Angeles/San Diego Chargers received 1995 6th round pick (197th overall, Craig Whelihan) from Cleveland Browns for Donald Frank. The recorded outcome favors Los Angeles/San Diego Chargers.
Philadelphia Eagles received 1994 second round pick (#40-David Palmer) and 1995 second round pick (most favorable of Browns picks) (#58-Barrett Brooks) from Cleveland Browns for 1994 first round pick (#29-Derrick Alexander (Scott)). The recorded outcome favors Philadelphia Eagles.
Cleveland Browns received David Jones from Oakland/Las Vegas Raiders for conditional draft pick (selection not identified). The recorded outcome does not show enough separation to identify a clear winner.
Cleveland Browns acquired Rob McGovern from New England Patriots for George Williams (b). The available record does not show enough separation to call a clear long-term winner.
Cleveland Browns acquired undisclosed historical consideration from Green Bay Packers for Dan Fike / Danny Fike. The available record does not show enough separation to call a clear long-term winner.
Miami traded Gene Williams to Cleveland for the 1994 fourth-round pick used on Ronnie Woolfork. Williams immediately became a starting offensive lineman for the Browns, making 23 starts across his two Cleveland seasons. Woolfork, selected 112th overall, never appeared in an NFL regular-season game. Cleveland clearly converted a modest draft cost into substantially more realized football value.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers received Rick Trumbull from Cleveland Browns for past considerations (details not identified). The recorded outcome does not show enough separation to identify a clear winner.
Denver moved from No. 14 to No. 11 in the 1993 first round, sending Cleveland the 14th pick and No. 83. The Broncos selected defensive lineman Dan Williams, while the Browns landed center Steve Everitt and linebacker Mike Caldwell. Williams had a useful career, but Cleveland received two long-term NFL contributors, including a durable starting center. The Browns clearly won the value comparison.
Cleveland Browns received Jerry Ball from Detroit Lions for 1993 third round pick (#68-Mike Compton). The recorded outcome favors Cleveland Browns.
Atlanta Falcons received undisclosed draft pick (selection not identified) from Cleveland Browns for Shawn Collins. The recorded outcome does not show enough separation to identify a clear winner.
Cleveland Browns received Jay Hilgenberg from Chicago Bears for 1993 conditional round pick (second-fourth round depending on Hilgenberg's performance) (#97-Todd Perry). The recorded outcome favors Chicago Bears.
Cleveland Browns received Rod Milstead from Dallas Cowboys for undisclosed draft pick (selection not identified). The recorded outcome does not show enough separation to identify a clear winner.
Los Angeles Rams received 1993 eighth round pick (#209-Maa Tanuvasa / Ma'a Tanuvasa) from Cleveland Browns for Frank Stams. The recorded outcome favors Cleveland Browns.
Philadelphia Eagles acquired 1993 conditional pick (not excercised?) from Cleveland Browns for Brad Goebel. The available record does not show enough separation to call a clear long-term winner.
Tampa Bay acquired picks No. 148 and No. 222 from Cleveland in the 1992 draft and used them on James Malone and Mike Pawlawski. Cleveland moved to No. 143 and selected Rico Smith. Malone and Pawlawski did not become meaningful NFL contributors, while Smith played 29 NFL games and supplied the only notable team value from the exchange. Cleveland therefore wins the previously even-rated trade.
Dallas moved up to No. 36 in 1992 and acquired No. 121, while Cleveland received five selections spread from the second through twelfth rounds. The Cowboys drafted Jimmy Smith and Rod Milstead, but neither produced regular-season value for Dallas. Cleveland's best direct return was Gerald Dixon, who played 43 games for the Browns and eventually started nine, making Cleveland the stronger team-specific side.
Cleveland Browns received Fred Childress / Freddie Childress from New England Patriots for 1992 eighth round pick (#204-Scott Lockwood). The recorded outcome favors New England Patriots.
Cleveland Browns received undisclosed draft pick (not exercised) from Oakland/Las Vegas Raiders for Newt Harrell. The recorded outcome does not show enough separation to identify a clear winner.
Cleveland Browns acquired Roy Green from Arizona Cardinals for undisclosed draft pick (undisclosed). The available record does not show enough separation to call a clear long-term winner.
Seattle Seahawks received Bob Buczkowski from Cleveland Browns for 1991 ninth round pick (#239-Shawn Wiggins). The recorded outcome favors Cleveland Browns.
Cleveland Browns received Brent Fullwood from Green Bay Packers for 1991 seventh round pick (#169-Frank Blevins). The recorded outcome favors Cleveland Browns.
Philadelphia Eagles received 1992 fourth round pick (#92-Tony Brooks) from Cleveland Browns for Ken Reeves. The recorded outcome favors Philadelphia Eagles.
Miami sent Cleveland the 178th pick in the 1990 draft, which became Scott Galbraith, for a 1991 fifth-round choice that landed at No. 113. The Dolphins used that future pick on linebacker Bryan Cox. Cox became a three-time Pro Bowler and one of Miami's defensive leaders, turning a seventh-round investment into a major long-term return and giving the Dolphins a clear win.
Cleveland Browns
Los Angeles/San Diego Chargers received 1990 seventh round pick (#185-Joe Staysniak) from Cleveland Browns for Barry Redden. The recorded outcome favors Los Angeles/San Diego Chargers.
Cleveland Browns received Darryl Haley from Green Bay Packers for conditional draft pick (probably not exercised; selection not identified). The recorded outcome favors Cleveland Browns.
Cleveland Browns received 1989 second round pick (#31-Lawyer Tillman) and 1989 fifth round pick (#114-Kyle Kramer) from Green Bay Packers for Herman Fontenot, 1989 third round pick (#74-Anthony Dilweg), 1989 fifth round pick (#127-Vince Workman), and 1990 first round pick (#18-Tony Bennett). The recorded outcome favors Green Bay Packers.
Cleveland sent running back Earnest Byner to Washington in a straight player-for-player exchange for Mike Oliphant. Oliphant contributed mainly on special teams and carried only 15 times for 97 yards in his lone Browns season, while Byner went on to become a two-time Pro Bowler and championship back in Washington. The disparity makes this a costly Cleveland decision in hindsight.
Denver sent Cleveland the 13th pick in the 1989 draft for Nos. 20, 47, 134 and 241. The Broncos selected Steve Atwater at No. 20, landing a future Hall of Fame safety and cornerstone of two Super Bowl champions. Cleveland used No. 13 on Eric Metcalf, a three-time Pro Bowler and elite multipurpose threat, making this an excellent trade for both clubs.
Kansas City acquired linebacker Mike Junkin from Cleveland on April 21, 1989 for the 116th pick in that year's draft. Junkin, the former No. 5 overall selection, played only five games for the Chiefs and made four tackles. Cleveland used No. 116 on Vernon Joines, who appeared in 20 NFL games. The return was modest, but the Browns extracted more value from a player whose career was nearly finished.
Indianapolis acquired linebacker Anthony Griggs from Cleveland on August 30, 1988 for a conditional 1989 twelfth-round pick. The condition was not exercised, so Cleveland received no drafted player from the deal. Griggs had been a productive starter earlier in his career, but his official NFL record ends with five Browns games in 1988 and shows no regular-season Colts appearance, leaving little realized value either way.
Cleveland Browns received 1989 fifth round pick (#127-Vince Workman) from New England Patriots for Mike Baab. The recorded outcome favors Cleveland Browns.
Cleveland Browns received Daryl Turner from Seattle Seahawks for undisclosed draft pick (not exercised). The recorded outcome does not show enough separation to identify a clear winner.
Philadelphia Eagles received William Hoggard / D.D. Hoggard / Dee Dee Hoggard and 1988 sixth round pick (#160-Rob Sterling) from Cleveland Browns for Chris Pike. The recorded outcome favors Philadelphia Eagles.
New Orleans Saints acquired Kirk Jones; Robert Brannon from Cleveland Browns for undisclosed pick; draft pick (undisclosed). The available record does not show enough separation to call a clear long-term winner.
Cleveland Browns received Al Baker / Bubba Baker from Arizona Cardinals for 1988 fifth round pick (#132-Tony Jordan). The recorded outcome favors Arizona Cardinals.
San Diego moved down from the fifth and 32nd selections in the 1987 draft and received linebacker Chip Banks plus picks No. 24 and No. 53 from Cleveland. The Chargers converted those choices into Rod Bernstine and Louis Brock while adding an established defender. Cleveland's premium selections became Mike Junkin and Gregg Rakoczy, leaving the Chargers with the stronger realized return.
The Rams traded the third-round selection that became kicker Jeff Jaeger to Cleveland and received three later choices, used on Larry Kelm, Scott Mersereau and Fred Stokes. Jaeger kicked in only 10 games for the Browns before his long career continued elsewhere. Los Angeles obtained more direct roster value, especially from Kelm, and also received early contributions from Stokes before his career expanded with other clubs.
Cleveland Browns received Mike Pagel from Indianapolis Colts for 1987 ninth round pick (#247-Bob Ontko). The recorded outcome favors Indianapolis Colts.
Cleveland acquired linebacker Anthony Griggs from Philadelphia on draft day in 1986 and sent the Eagles its eighth-round selection, No. 208. Philadelphia used that pick on Seth Joyner, who became one of the defining defenders of the Buddy Ryan era and later entered the Eagles Hall of Fame. Griggs supplied Cleveland useful snaps, but Joyner created far greater long-term value.
Kansas City Chiefs received Boyce Green from Cleveland Browns for 1986 seventh round pick (#174-Mike Norseth). The recorded outcome favors Cleveland Browns.
The Rams sent Cleveland the rights to Canadian receiver Terry Greer and received the Browns' 1986 fourth-round selection, No. 96. Greer produced only a small amount of offense for Cleveland, while Los Angeles retained a useful draft asset and later included No. 96 in another transaction. The Rams therefore extracted more practical value even though they did not themselves select Charles Haley.
Cleveland Browns received John Jefferson from Green Bay Packers for rights to Tom Robison and 1987 seventh round pick (#191-Bill Smith (e)). The recorded outcome favors Cleveland Browns.
Seattle Seahawks acquired 1986 seventh round pick (#181-Paul Miles (b)) from Cleveland Browns for rights to Sam Clancy. The final verdict remains Seattle Seahawks Win, with the grades reflecting the recorded asset value and the available historical return.
Indianapolis Colts received 1986 conditional twelfth round pick (not exercised) from Cleveland Browns for Victor Oatis. The recorded outcome favors Cleveland Browns.
Cleveland Browns received Gary Danielson from Detroit Lions for 1986 third round pick (#69-Joe Milinichik). The recorded outcome favors Cleveland Browns.
Cleveland secured Buffalo's first selection in the 1985 supplemental draft and used it on Bernie Kosar, sending a broad package that ultimately included first-, third- and sixth-round draft value plus the unresolved Chip Banks obligation. Kosar became Cleveland's long-term starting quarterback and led deep playoff runs, while Buffalo converted the compensation into several useful assets. Cleveland still gained the more important centerpiece.
Buffalo Bills acquired Lawrence Johnson (a) from Cleveland Browns for undisclosed draft pick (possibly 1986 #167-Jim Meyer). The available record does not show enough separation to call a clear long-term winner.
Cleveland Browns acquired undisclosed conditional draft pick (undisclosed) from New England Patriots for Robin Ham. The available record does not show enough separation to call a clear long-term winner.
Cleveland Browns received Perry Harrington from Philadelphia Eagles for 1985 conditional draft pick (undisclosed). The recorded outcome does not show enough separation to identify a clear winner.
Cleveland Browns received first round pick in 1984 draft of USFL players (#11-Kevin Mack), second round pick in 1984 draft of USFL players (#44-Gerald McNeil), and third round pick in 1984 draft of USFL players (#71-Doug West) from Chicago Bears for 1984 ninth round pick (#244-Mark Casale), 1984 tenth round pick (#271-Shaun Gayle), 1984 eleventh round pick (#297-Mark Butkus), and 1984 twelfth round pick (#330-Donald Jordan). The recorded outcome favors Cleveland Browns.
Denver Broncos acquired Dave Logan (Russell) from Cleveland Browns for 1984 fourth round pick (#96-Rickey Bolden). The final verdict remains Cleveland Browns Win, with the grades reflecting the recorded asset value and the available historical return.
Los Angeles sent Cleveland its 1984 second-round pick for the exclusive negotiating rights to sprinter and wide receiver Ron Brown, whom the Browns had drafted in 1983. Cleveland used No. 48 on defensive back Chris Rockins. Rockins became a useful four-year contributor, but Brown developed into an All-Pro returner and multi-year Rams weapon, giving Los Angeles the stronger long-term payoff.
Cleveland sent its 1985 fourth-round pick, No. 91 overall, to Miami on March 27, 1984 for receiver Duriel Harris. Harris started 11 games for the Browns in 1984 and caught 32 passes for 512 yards and two touchdowns, giving Cleveland a useful immediate season. Miami used No. 91 on Mike Smith, whose NFL impact was limited, leaving Cleveland with the better realized return.
Cleveland Browns received Carl Hairston from Philadelphia Eagles for 1985 ninth round pick (#231-Dave Toub). The recorded outcome favors Philadelphia Eagles.
Cleveland Browns received 1984 ninth round pick (#228-Don Jones (b)) from Philadelphia Eagles for Bill Cowher. The recorded outcome favors Cleveland Browns.
Cleveland Browns received Bobby Jones from New York Jets for 1984 eighth round pick (#217-Bret Wright). The recorded outcome favors New York Jets.
Cleveland acquired the Raiders' 1984 tenth-round selection for guard Henry Sheppard and used pick No. 280 on Earnest Byner. Byner became a major Browns contributor, topped 1,000 rushing yards in 1985 and built a 14-year NFL career with more than 8,000 rushing yards. Turning a depth player into that late-round value makes this an exceptional Cleveland win.
Cleveland Browns received past considerations (compensation for Gerry Sullivan retiring after being traded to Bears) from Chicago Bears for Andy Frederick. The recorded outcome favors Chicago Bears.
Cleveland Browns acquired 1983 sixth round pick (#145-Tim Stracka) from Chicago Bears for Gerry Sullivan. The available record does not show enough separation to call a clear long-term winner.
Cleveland Browns acquired 1983 seventh round pick (#176-Rocky Belk) from Chicago Bears for Bruce Huther. The available record does not show enough separation to call a clear long-term winner.
Cleveland Browns received past considerations (undisclosed) from Oakland/Las Vegas Raiders for Don Goode. The recorded outcome does not show enough separation to identify a clear winner.
Oakland acquired Lyle Alzado and Greg Pruitt from Cleveland in two same-day April 1982 trades, surrendering only an eighth-round pick in 1982 and an eleventh-round pick in 1983. Alzado became a four-year Raiders starter and key defender on the 1983 championship team, while Pruitt supplied veteran depth. The combined return makes Oakland the clear winner.
Denver Broncos acquired Robert Jackson (L.) from Cleveland Browns for 1982 sixth round pick (#162-Mike Whitwell). The final verdict remains Cleveland Browns Win, with the grades reflecting the recorded asset value and the available historical return.
Buffalo turned Tom Cousineau's rights into a premium package headlined by Cleveland's 1983 first-round pick, which became No. 14 overall and Jim Kelly. Two additional future selections also went to Buffalo. Kelly's eventual Hall of Fame career and role in four consecutive AFC championship teams make this one of the clearest long-term wins in Bills trade history.
San Francisco 49ers received 1983 ninth round pick (#235) [later traded with 1983 twelfth round pick (#313-Oliver Williams) to Chicago Bears for Jeff Williams] from Cleveland Browns for Matt Bahr. The recorded outcome favors Cleveland Browns.
Cleveland Browns received Thomas Brown (b) from Philadelphia Eagles for 1983 seventh round pick (#182-Jon Schultheis). The recorded outcome favors Philadelphia Eagles.
Dallas Cowboys received 1982 sixth round pick (#143-Ken Hammond) from Cleveland Browns for Bruce Huther. The recorded outcome favors Dallas Cowboys.
Buffalo sent running back Terry Miller to Cleveland for the 1982 seventh-round pick that became No. 171, Gary Anderson. Contemporary and team draft records do not support a fourth-round pick actually changing hands. Miller was released by Cleveland before the 1981 regular season, while Buffalo also cut Anderson before his rookie season. Neither franchise received meaningful team-specific production, making the direct trade essentially even.
Cleveland Browns acquired 1982 eighth round pick (#211-Bill Jackson) from Washington Commanders for 1981 tenth round pick (probably #257-Phil Kessel). The available record does not show enough separation to call a clear long-term winner.
Cleveland acquired elite guard Joe DeLamielleure from Buffalo in September 1980 for second- and third-round draft choices. DeLamielleure became a regular on the Browns' offensive line and later reached the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Buffalo used the picks on Chris Williams and Eugene Marve, receiving some roster value but not enough to match the proven high-end lineman Cleveland obtained.
Cleveland Browns acquired 1982 conditional fourth round pick (undisclosed) from Green Bay Packers for Mark Miller (b). Cleveland Browns received the stronger recorded football value, matching the Cleveland Browns Win verdict.
Los Angeles Chargers acquired 1981 fourth round pick (#107-Eric Sievers); 1983 fourth round pick (#95-Danny Walters) from Cleveland Browns for Don Goode. Los Angeles Chargers received the stronger recorded football value, matching the Los Angeles Chargers Win verdict.
Los Angeles moved up from No. 27 to No. 17 in the 1980 draft and also received a sixth-round pick, selecting defensive back Johnnie Johnson and fullback Mike Guman. Cleveland collected four selections, including Heisman winner Charles White at No. 27. The Rams ultimately received more durable NFL value, especially from Johnson, while White's best professional season came later with Los Angeles.
Cleveland Browns received 1980 sixth round pick (#154) [later traded with 1980 first round pick (#17-Johnnie Johnson) to Los Angeles Rams for 1980 first round pick (#27-Charles White (Raymond)), 1980 second round pick (#54-Cleveland Crosby), 1980 fourth round pick (#109-Paul McDonald) and 1980 fifth round pick (#116-Elvis Franks)] and 1981 tenth round pick (#267-Allan Kennedy) from New England Patriots for Mike St. Clair and Ernie Price (Ernest Price). The recorded outcome favors Cleveland Browns.
Cleveland Browns acquired Marshall Harris (b) from New York Jets for 1981 conditional eighth round pick (if Harris makes Browns roster) (#213-J.C. Watts). The overall result favors New York Jets over Cleveland Browns.
Cleveland Browns
Cleveland Browns acquired 1980 fifth round pick (#136-Laval Short); 1981 fourth round pick (#92-Mike Robinson (b)); Redskins 1981 tenth round pick (probably #257) [later traded to Washington for 1982 eighth round pick (#211-Bill Jackson)] from Washington Commanders for Tony Peters (a). The recorded outcome favors Cleveland Browns.
Cleveland acquired veteran defensive end Lyle Alzado and received several productive seasons from a proven pass rusher. Alzado became an important member of the Browns defense, so Cleveland did obtain the immediate veteran value it sought. The price was substantial, however, because Denver turned the draft package into Rulon Jones and additional assets that lasted beyond Alzado’s Cleveland tenure.
New York Giants acquired undisclosed consideration; 1980 seventh round pick (#182-Chris Linnin) from Cleveland Browns for undisclosed consideration; (Earl) Jack Gregory. New York Giants received the stronger recorded football value, matching the New York Giants Win verdict.
Los Angeles Chargers acquired 1980 sixth round pick (#151-LaRue Harrington) from Cleveland Browns for Rickey Anderson. The overall result favors Los Angeles/San Diego Chargers over Los Angeles Chargers.
Las Vegas Raiders acquired 1979 seventh round pick (#175-Jack Matia); 1979 twelfth round pick (#316-Dirk Abernathy) from Cleveland Browns for 1979 seventh round pick (#183-Cody Risien); 1979 ninth round pick (#241-Curtis Weathers). The available record does not show enough separation to call a clear long-term winner.
Cleveland moved down from No. 13 to No. 20 and added the 47th pick, selecting Willis Adams and Sam Claphan. Neither player produced value close to the Hall of Fame career created by the pick the Browns surrendered. The trade gave Cleveland two chances instead of one, but the realized return was modest and the opportunity cost became enormous.
Los Angeles Rams acquired Oscar Roan; 1979 fifth round pick (#122-Victor Hicks) from Cleveland Browns for 1979 fifth round pick (#124-Rich Dimler); 1979 sixth round pick (#163-Jim Ronan). Los Angeles Rams received the stronger recorded football value, matching the Los Angeles Rams Win verdict.
New Orleans Saints acquired Barry Darrow from Cleveland Browns for 1980 conditional draft pick (not exercised). The available record does not show enough separation to call a clear long-term winner.
Cleveland Browns acquired 1979 twelfth round pick (#315-Dewitt Methvin / Dee Methvin) from Washington Commanders for Joe Jones (Willie). Cleveland Browns received the stronger recorded football value, matching the Cleveland Browns Win verdict.
Las Vegas Raiders acquired 1980 fifth round pick (probably #125-Kenny Lewis) from Cleveland Browns for George Buehler. The available record does not show enough separation to call a clear long-term winner.
Philadelphia Eagles acquired 1979 seventh round pick (#178-Don Swafford) from Cleveland Browns for Tom Sullivan. Philadelphia Eagles received the stronger recorded football value, matching the Philadelphia Eagles Win verdict.
Cleveland moved down from pick No. 20 to No. 23 and also received pick No. 103. At No. 23 the Browns selected Ozzie Newsome, who became a Hall of Fame tight end and one of the defining players in franchise history. The longer view produces a A+ grade for Cleveland Browns. Cleveland receives an A+ and Los Angeles a C+.
Cleveland Browns acquired 1978 third round pick (#67-Larry Collins); 1979 seventh round pick (#175-Jack Matia) from Detroit Lions for rights to Tom Skladany. The overall result favors Detroit Lions over Cleveland Browns.
Cleveland's recorded return consisted of two conditional picks that were not exercised. Because the contemplated compensation never produced a realized asset, the retained record is administrative rather than a football-value win.
Cleveland Browns received Art Moore (Arthur Moore) from New England Patriots for conditional draft pick (undisclosed). The conditional compensation and Moore's limited downstream impact leave the transaction even.
Pittsburgh sent Dan Audick to Cleveland for future considerations that may have included an unidentified draft pick. The incomplete return keeps the transaction Even.
Cleveland Browns acquired Bob Kowalkowski from Detroit Lions for draft pick (undisclosed). The available record does not show enough separation to call a clear long-term winner.
Cleveland sent Neal Craig to the St. Louis Cardinals for the 1977 seventh-round pick used on Bob Lingenfelter. Lingenfelter appeared in 14 games with two starts for Cleveland, giving the Browns a small realized advantage.
Chicago received Mike Phipps and gave up a 1977 fourth-round pick plus the 1978 first-round No. 20 asset. Cleveland later converted that first-round value into Ozzie Newsome and Pete Pullara, producing the substantially stronger outcome.
Seattle Seahawks acquired Ted Bachman from Cleveland Browns for Terry Brown. The available record does not show enough separation to call a clear long-term winner.
Atlanta Falcons received Ron East from Cleveland Browns for 1977 seventh round pick (#173-Kenneth Randle / Ken Randle / Kenny Randle). The recorded outcome favors Cleveland Browns.
Cleveland Browns received Steve Cassidy from Green Bay Packers for undisclosed historical consideration and No asset listed in raw source. The recorded outcome does not show enough separation to identify a clear winner.
Cleveland Browns received undisclosed historical consideration from Green Bay Packers for Steve Cassidy. The recorded outcome does not show enough separation to identify a clear winner.
Buffalo traded veteran defensive lineman Earl Edwards to Cleveland for the 1977 third- and sixth-round choices used on John Kimbrough and Ron Pruitt. Kimbrough supplied one useful season, including two receiving touchdowns and a punt-return score, while Pruitt never appeared in an NFL regular-season game. The return was real but short-lived.
Cleveland Browns received Jim Bailey (R.) from New York Jets for 1977 draft pick (undisclosed). The recorded outcome does not show enough separation to identify a clear winner.
Cleveland Browns received Ron Bolton from New England Patriots for Bob McKay. The recorded outcome does not show enough separation to identify a clear winner.
Cleveland sent the No. 34 pick to Oakland and received linebacker Gerald Irons plus a ninth-round choice, No. 261, used on Craig Nagel. Irons became a regular Browns linebacker and appeared in 58 games over four seasons. That sustained starting value gives Cleveland a better return than the record previously suggested.
Buffalo Bills received 1976 eighth round pick (#215-Scott Gardner) from Cleveland Browns for Neal Craig. The recorded outcome favors Buffalo Bills.
Dallas Cowboys received undisclosed draft pick (selection not identified) from Cleveland Browns for Jim Arneson. The recorded outcome does not show enough separation to identify a clear winner.
Philadelphia Eagles received Clifford Brooks / Cliff Brooks from Cleveland Browns for 1976 fourth round pick (#97-Gene Swick). The recorded outcome favors Cleveland Browns.
Cleveland Browns received Willie Miller from Houston Oilers/Tennessee Titans for draft pick (possibly 1976 #324-Larry Bell). The recorded outcome does not show enough separation to identify a clear winner.
Los Angeles/San Diego Chargers received 1977 fifth round pick (#128) [later traded with 1976 fifth round pick (#128-Carl Ekern) to Los Angeles Rams for Tony Baker (a)] from Cleveland Browns for Ron East. The recorded outcome is even.
Cleveland Browns received draft pick (undisclosed) from Oakland/Las Vegas Raiders for James Thaxton / Jim Thaxton (Ivory). The recorded outcome does not show enough separation to identify a clear winner.
Denver Broncos received Bill Andrews (b) / Billy Andrews from Cleveland Browns for Lionel Hepburn / Lonnie Hepburn. The recorded outcome does not show enough separation to identify a clear winner.
Cleveland Browns received Reggie Rucker from New England Patriots for 1975 fourth round pick (#86-Allen Carter). The recorded outcome favors New England Patriots.
Los Angeles/San Diego Chargers received 1975 sixth round pick (#134-John Carroll (b)) from Cleveland Browns for James Thaxton / Jim Thaxton (Ivory). The recorded outcome favors Los Angeles/San Diego Chargers.
Cleveland Browns received Glen Holloway from Chicago Bears for 1976 conditional pick (fourth round if Holloway is in NFL in 1975, else sixth round) (#161-Dan Jiggetts). The recorded outcome favors Chicago Bears.
Philadelphia Eagles received Joe Jones (Willie) from Cleveland Browns for Ben Hawkins. The recorded outcome does not show enough separation to identify a clear winner.
Oakland/Las Vegas Raiders received Frank Pitts from Cleveland Browns for 1975 sixth round pick (#154-Henry Hynoski / Harry Hynoski (Sr.)). The recorded outcome does not show enough separation to identify a clear winner.
New Orleans acquired veteran receiver Fair Hooker from Cleveland for Jubilee Dunbar, also listed as Allen Dunbar. Dunbar appeared in five games for the Browns in 1974 and caught six passes for 74 yards. Hooker did not produce a Saints regular-season appearance after the move, so Cleveland receives a narrow edge from the limited direct value.
Kansas City acquired defensive end Bob Briggs and Bubba Pena from Cleveland for the 1975 ninth-round pick later used on Floyd Hogan. Briggs appeared in seven games for the Chiefs in 1974, while Pena did not reach Kansas City's regular-season roster. Hogan did not produce an NFL regular-season career, leaving Kansas City with the narrow edge.
New York Giants received undisclosed consideration and Charles Glass / Chip Glass from Cleveland Browns for undisclosed consideration and Carter Campbell. The recorded outcome does not show enough separation to identify a clear winner.
Cleveland Browns received 1975 fifth round pick (#119-Jim Cope (a)) from Detroit Lions for Ben Davis (a). The recorded outcome does not show enough separation to identify a clear winner.
Cleveland Browns received 1974 seventh round pick (#163-Bob Herrick) from Arizona Cardinals for Andy Dorris. The recorded outcome favors Cleveland Browns.
Buffalo Bills received Rich Kingrea / Rick Kingrea / Rick Kingrey from Cleveland Browns for 1974 eighth round pick (#199-(Paul) Eddie Brown). The recorded outcome favors Cleveland Browns.
San Diego traded linebacker Bob Babich and a 1975 fourth-round pick to Cleveland for the 1974 first-round selection used on Don Goode and the 1975 second-round selection used on Louie Kelcher. Babich became a six-year Browns regular, so Cleveland received legitimate value. Kelcher, however, became a Chargers Hall of Famer and one of the franchise's best defensive linemen, giving San Diego the stronger return.
Buffalo Bills received 1974 tenth round pick (probably #249-Don Calhoun) from Cleveland Browns for rights to Jan White. The recorded outcome favors Buffalo Bills.
Cleveland Browns received 1974 tenth round pick (#238-Mike Puestow) from Chicago Bears for Randy Mattingly. The recorded outcome favors Chicago Bears.
Cleveland Browns received 1975 sixth round pick (#150-Charles Miller / Charlie Miller) from Washington for Paul Staroba. The recorded outcome favors Cleveland Browns.
Buffalo Bills received Robert Cornell / Bo Cornell from Cleveland Browns for 1974 sixth round pick (#146-Bill Pritchett / Billy Pritchett). The recorded outcome favors Cleveland Browns.
Baltimore acquired kicker George Hunt from Cleveland on January 30, 1973 for the fourth-round pick used on Andy Dorris. Hunt handled the Colts' kicking job for all 14 games in 1973. Cleveland drafted Dorris but traded him before the regular season, later receiving a 1974 seventh-round pick. Baltimore gained the stronger immediate football return.
Denver sent quarterback Don Horn to Cleveland and received the Browns' 1974 third- and sixth-round selections. The third-rounder became No. 68 overall, tackle Claudie Minor, while the sixth-rounder was later moved to Pittsburgh. Horn appeared only sparingly for Cleveland in 1973, whereas Minor became a long-term Denver starter, giving the Broncos the stronger return.
Baltimore acquired center Fred Hoaglin from Cleveland on January 25, 1973, for Kansas City’s third-round pick, No. 67 overall, which the Browns used on defensive end Bob Crum. Hoaglin appeared in all 14 games for the Colts that season, while Crum never played a regular-season game for Cleveland. The deal produced modest value, but Baltimore realized more of it.
New Orleans Saints received Mitch Johnson and 1974 eighth round pick (selection not identified) from Cleveland Browns for 1973 third round pick (selection not identified). The recorded outcome does not show enough separation to identify a clear winner.
Denver traded veteran defensive end Rich Jackson to Cleveland during the 1972 season for a 1973 third-round draft choice. That selection became offensive lineman Paul Howard. Jackson had been one of the Broncos’ first great defenders, but knee trouble had begun to limit him and 1972 became his final NFL season.
Miami traded veteran center Bob DeMarco to Cleveland on September 26, 1972 for the Browns' 1973 seventh-round choice, later used on Willie Hatter. Hatter never played an NFL regular-season game, while DeMarco became a Cleveland starter and made 27 starts across 1973 and 1974. The Browns therefore obtained substantially more direct football value from the exchange.
Oakland sent receiver Gloster Richardson to Cleveland on September 11, 1972 for the Browns' 1974 fourth-round selection, later used on Morris Bradshaw. Richardson contributed as a reserve over three Browns seasons, but Bradshaw became a longer-tenured Raiders player and special-teams contributor. Oakland's draft conversion produced the stronger long-term return, though Cleveland did receive useful veteran production.
Los Angeles/San Diego Chargers received 1973 fifth round pick (#125-Jon Knoble / John Knoble / Johnnie Knoble) from Cleveland Browns for George Wright. The recorded outcome favors Los Angeles/San Diego Chargers.
Cleveland Browns received Lynn Larson / Lynn Larsen from Indianapolis Colts for 1973 sixth round pick (selection not identified). The recorded outcome does not show enough separation to identify a clear winner.
Cleveland Browns received Clark Hoss from New England Patriots for 1973 seventh round pick (undisclosed). The recorded outcome favors New England Patriots.
Cleveland Browns received Jerry Rush from Detroit Lions for 1973 eighth round pick (#203-John Bledsoe). The recorded outcome favors Cleveland Browns.
Cleveland Browns received 1973 third round pick (Saints pick) (#54-Paul Howard) from Washington for Mitch Johnson and 1974 eighth round pick (#196-Darwin Robinson). The recorded outcome does not show enough separation to identify a clear winner.
New York Giants received undisclosed consideration, (Earl) Jack Gregory and Fred Summers / Freddie Summers from Cleveland Browns for undisclosed consideration, 1973 first round pick (#16-Steve Holden) and 1973 second round pick (#30-Greg Pruitt). The recorded outcome favors Cleveland Browns.
Cleveland Browns received 1973 draft pick (selection not identified) from Detroit Lions for Bill Yanchar/ Billy Yanchar. The recorded outcome does not show enough separation to identify a clear winner.
On 1971-09-08, Cleveland Browns and Kansas City Chiefs completed a deal that sent Frank Pitts to Cleveland Browns and 1972 fourth round pick (#97-Andy Hamilton), 1973 third round pick (#72-Paul Krause (b)) to Kansas City Chiefs. Pitts became a productive Cleveland starter, including 620 receiving yards and eight touchdowns in 1972. Kansas City's resulting draft assets did not match that immediate multi-season production, making Cleveland the stronger realized return. That realized value supports a Cleveland Browns Win verdict, with Cleveland Browns graded B+ and Kansas City Chiefs graded C.
Miami acquired linebacker Bob Matheson from Cleveland for a 1972 second-round selection that became No. 51 overall and Lester Sims. Matheson remained with the Dolphins through the decade, playing a specialized role on championship defenses and becoming associated with Miami's famed 53 defense. Cleveland's draft return never produced comparable value. A second-rounder was a meaningful price, but Miami's sustained payoff makes this a clear Dolphins win.
Buffalo Bills received Rick Stevenson / Ricky Stevenson / Richey Stevenson from Cleveland Browns for conditional tenth round pick (if Stevenson makes Bills roster) (not exercised). The recorded outcome does not show enough separation to identify a clear winner.
Los Angeles acquired Joe Taffoni and Cleveland’s 1972 third-round pick, which became Lawrence McCutcheon, for Mitch Johnson and a 1972 fifth-rounder that became Greg Kucera. Taffoni was quickly moved again, but McCutcheon became a five-time Pro Bowl running back and one of the defining Rams skill players of the decade. Cleveland’s return never approached that level, creating a clear Rams victory.
Los Angeles Rams received Joe Taffoni from Cleveland Browns for future player consideration (identity not specified in source record), two draft picks (selections not identified) and future player consideration (identity not specified in source record) or two undisclosed draft picks (selections not identified). The recorded outcome does not show enough separation to identify a clear winner.
Cleveland Browns received "high" draft pick (not exercisedundisclosed) from Arizona Cardinals for Homer Jones. The recorded outcome favors Cleveland Browns.
Cleveland Browns received 1972 ninth round pick (#230-Billy LeFear) from Indianapolis/Baltimore Colts for Tom Beutler. The recorded outcome favors Cleveland Browns.
Kansas City Chiefs received Marvin Upshaw from Cleveland Browns for 1971 third round pick (#68-Charles Hall (a)). The recorded outcome favors Cleveland Browns.
Buffalo Bills received Alvin Mitchell (a) from Cleveland Browns for undisclosed draft pick (not exercised). The recorded outcome favors Cleveland Browns.
Cleveland Browns received 1970 third round pick (#66-Charlie Waters) from Houston Oilers/Tennessee Titans for Jerry Rhome. The recorded outcome favors Cleveland Browns.
Miami sent the third overall pick in the 1970 draft to Cleveland for All-Pro receiver Paul Warfield. The Browns selected quarterback Mike Phipps, who had uneven results and never became their long-term answer. Warfield became a centerpiece of Miami’s three straight Super Bowl teams, winning two championships and stretching defenses for the perfect 1972 club. Few trades show a larger gap between immediate star value and draft conversion.
New York Giants received undisclosed consideration, Ron Johnson (Adolphis), Wayne Meyland / Wayne Meylan and Jim Kanicki from Cleveland Browns for undisclosed consideration and Homer Jones. The recorded outcome favors Cleveland Browns.
Cleveland Browns
Cleveland sent receiver Eppie Barney to Chicago in September 1969 for the Bears’ 1971 sixth-round choice. The Browns used pick No. 142 on tackle Doug Dieken, who became a 14-season Cleveland fixture and started a remarkable run of 194 consecutive games at left tackle. Barney’s NFL career ended after limited production. Turning a marginal veteran into one of the franchise’s longest-serving linemen makes Cleveland the decisive winner.
Dallas traded quarterback Jerry Rhome to Cleveland for a 1970 third-round pick that became Steve Kiner and a conditional third-rounder that became Charlie Waters. The condition was triggered when Cleveland moved Rhome before the draft. Waters developed into a three-time Pro Bowler, two-time Super Bowl champion and 41-interception defensive back, giving Dallas the overwhelming long-term return.
Cleveland Browns received cash from New Orleans Saints for Ralph Smith / Catfish Smith. The recorded outcome favors Cleveland Browns.
Cleveland Browns received draft pick (selection not identified) from Minnesota Vikings for Ron Green (Morris). The recorded outcome does not show enough separation to identify a clear winner.
New York Giants received undisclosed consideration and Gary Lane from Cleveland Browns for undisclosed consideration and 1969 sixth round pick (#145-Larry Adams). The recorded outcome favors Cleveland Browns.
Atlanta Falcons received Harry Olszewski from Cleveland Browns for cash. The recorded outcome favors Cleveland Browns.
San Francisco 49ers received Clifton McNeil from Cleveland Browns for 1969 second round pick (#42-Warren Bankston). The recorded outcome favors Cleveland Browns.
Cleveland Browns received Ron Snidow from Washington for 1969 second round pick (#46-Eugene Epps) and draft pick (undisclosed). The recorded outcome favors Washington.
Philadelphia Eagles received Larry Conjar from Cleveland Browns for 1969 third round pick (#55-Alfred Jenkins / Al Jenkins (Joseph)). The recorded outcome favors Cleveland Browns.
Cleveland converted veteran linebacker Johnny Brewer into a 1970 second-round pick, No. 36 overall, that became defensive end Joe “Turkey” Jones. Brewer still gave New Orleans 37 games and 31 starts from 1968 through 1970, so the Saints received real short-term value. Jones, however, developed into a 134-game NFL defender, giving Cleveland the stronger long-range return and the win.
Pittsburgh Steelers received Dick Shiner, (Billy) Frank Parker and draft pick (possibly 1969 #42-Warren Bankston) from Cleveland Browns for Bill Nelson (b) and Jim Bradshaw. The recorded outcome favors Cleveland Browns.
Cleveland Browns received 1968 sixth round pick (#152-Nathan James / Nat James) from New York Giants for Vince Costello. The recorded outcome favors Cleveland Browns.
Philadelphia Eagles received 1968 sixth round pick (#157-Dave Martin) from Cleveland Browns for Ron Duncan (a). The recorded outcome favors Philadelphia Eagles.
Los Angeles traded defensive back George Youngblood to Cleveland for the Browns' 1968 third-round pick, No. 74 overall. The Rams quickly bundled that selection with a first-rounder and a 1969 second-rounder to acquire star defensive tackle Roger Brown from Detroit; Detroit later used No. 74 on Hall of Fame tight end Charlie Sanders. Youngblood spent only part of one season in Cleveland.
Dallas Cowboys received 1967 fifth round pick (#127-Zeke Moore) from Cleveland Browns for Joe Bob Isbell. The recorded outcome favors Dallas Cowboys.
Atlanta Falcons received Archie Roberts and Arthur Roberts from Cleveland Browns for conditional draft pick (if Roberts makes Falcons roster) (not exercised?) and draft pick (selection not identified). The recorded outcome favors Cleveland Browns.
Cleveland Browns received Dick Shiner and 1968 third round pick (#66-Reece Morrison) from Washington for Jim Ninowski. The recorded outcome favors Cleveland Browns.
Cleveland Browns received cash from New Orleans Saints for Randy Schultz. The recorded outcome favors Cleveland Browns.
New York Giants received undisclosed consideration, Sidney Williams / Sid Williams and Vince Costello from Cleveland Browns for undisclosed consideration, player to be named later or draft pick (selection not identified) and 1968 sixth round pick (#152-Nathan James / Nat James). The recorded outcome favors Cleveland Browns.
Cleveland Browns received 1968 third round pick (#64-Harry Olszewski) and 1968 tenth round pick (#255-James Greer) from Pittsburgh Steelers for John Brown (Calvin). Cleveland used the two 1968 selections on Harry Olszewski and James Greer, neither of whom supplied comparable NFL value. Across the complete player and draft outcomes, the exchange supports the Pittsburgh Steelers Win verdict while still crediting the other club for the useful value it realized.
Atlanta Falcons received undisclosed consideration and undisclosed historical consideration from Cleveland Browns for 1967 fourth round pick (selection not identified). The recorded outcome favors Cleveland Browns.
Atlanta Falcons received Charley Scales from Cleveland Browns for 1967 fourth round pick (#83-Carl Ward). The recorded outcome favors Cleveland Browns.
New York Giants received undisclosed consideration and Jim Garcia from Cleveland Browns for undisclosed consideration and 1967 third round pick (#55-Don Cockroft). The recorded outcome favors Cleveland Browns.
Cleveland Browns received Ralph Wenzel (Richard) from Green Bay Packers for draft pick (not exercisedundisclosed). The recorded outcome favors Cleveland Browns.
Cleveland Browns received Ray Schoenke from Green Bay Packers for draft pick (undisclosed). The recorded outcome favors Cleveland Browns.
Baltimore Colts received punter David Lee from Cleveland Browns for the 1968 fifth round pick that became No. 134 Jackie Jackson. Lee became Baltimore’s punter for 13 seasons, played 184 games, accumulated 838 punts for 34,019 yards and contributed to championship teams. Jackson never appeared in an NFL regular-season game. That enormous realized-value gap makes this an Indianapolis Colts Win.
Los Angeles Rams received David Ray from Cleveland Browns for draft pick (selection not identified). The recorded outcome favors Los Angeles Rams.
Cleveland Browns received draft pick (possibly 1966 #90-Jim Battle) from New York Giants for Mike Bundra. The recorded outcome favors Cleveland Browns.
Cleveland Browns received 1966 fifth round pick (#74-Randy Schultz) from Detroit Lions for Roger Shoals / Rodger Shoals. The recorded outcome does not show enough separation to identify a clear winner.
Dallas Cowboys received future player consideration (identity not specified in source record) from Cleveland Browns for Bob Fry. The recorded outcome favors Cleveland Browns.
Cleveland acquired defensive tackle Mike Bundra from Minnesota on October 5, 1964, sending the 1965 fourth-round choice that became No. 55 Jim Harris. Bundra appeared in nine games for the Browns during their 1964 championship season. Harris was drafted by Minnesota but signed with the AFL's New York Jets and never played a regular-season game for the Vikings. Cleveland received the only immediate team-specific field value and earns the edge.
Los Angeles acquired tight end Bill Truax from Cleveland for the 1965 second-round selection that became No. 22 Gerry Bussell. Truax developed into a long-term Rams starter, playing 94 games with 68 starts across seven seasons and catching 16 touchdown passes from 1965 through 1970. Bussell never played for Cleveland, spending his only pro season with Denver. The sustained Rams production makes this a decisive Los Angeles win.
Dallas Cowboys received Dick Van Raaphorst from Cleveland Browns for draft pick (selection not identified). The recorded outcome favors Cleveland Browns.
Cleveland Browns received 1964 sixth round pick (undisclosed) from Indianapolis/Baltimore Colts for Jim McCusker. The recorded outcome favors Cleveland Browns.
San Francisco 49ers received Frank Morze from Cleveland Browns for 1965 sixth round pick (#72-Arnold Simkus / Arnie Simkus). The recorded outcome favors San Francisco 49ers.
Cleveland Browns received Lowell Caylor, 1965 second round pick (#17-Jim Garcia) and 1965 third round pick (#32-Robert Scott / Bo Scott) from Chicago Bears for Rich Kreitling. The recorded outcome favors Cleveland Browns.
New York Giants received undisclosed consideration and Bob Crespino / Bobby Crespino from Cleveland Browns for undisclosed consideration and Dick Modzelewski. The recorded outcome favors Cleveland Browns.
San Francisco 49ers received 1965 first round pick (#13-George Donnelly) from Cleveland Browns for Ted Connolly. The recorded outcome favors San Francisco 49ers.
New York Giants received undisclosed consideration and undisclosed ("high") draft pick (selection not identified) from Cleveland Browns for undisclosed consideration and Reed Bohovich. The recorded outcome favors New York Giants.
Cleveland Browns received draft pick (undisclosed) from Minnesota Vikings for Tom Wilson. The recorded outcome does not show enough separation to identify a clear winner.
Dallas Cowboys received 1964 sixth round pick (#82-Jim Curry) from Cleveland Browns for Andy Cvercko / Andy Cverko. The recorded outcome favors Dallas Cowboys.
Dallas sent defensive tackle Ken Frost to Cleveland on May 13, 1963, for the Browns' 1964 third-round draft choice, later No. 39 overall. Frost never appeared in a regular-season game for Cleveland and was waived before the season, while Dallas converted an injured player into a valuable third-round asset. Even without direct player production from the pick, the Cowboys clearly gained more.
Cleveland Browns received Ken Webb / Kenny Webb from Detroit Lions for Floyd Peters. The recorded outcome does not show enough separation to identify a clear winner.
Dallas Cowboys received Jim Ray Smith from Cleveland Browns for Monte Clark. The recorded outcome favors Cleveland Browns.
Minnesota acquired veteran receiver Leon Clarke from Cleveland on January 29, 1963, for fullback Mel Triplett. Clarke played three games for the Vikings, catching three passes for 34 yards, while Triplett never appeared in another NFL regular-season game after leaving Minnesota. The exchange produced very little value, but Minnesota received the only post-trade on-field contribution and wins narrowly.
Minnesota sent Cleveland a 1963 sixth-round pick and received Tom Franckhauser, Errol Linden, Charley Ferguson, and Fred Cox. The pick became Ernie Borghetti, while Cox developed into the defining return: he spent 15 seasons with the Vikings, became the franchise's longtime scoring leader, and helped multiple championship teams. The Browns received a late-round selection; Minnesota acquired several players and a lasting special-teams fixture.
Cleveland Browns received Ernest Green / Ernie Green from Green Bay Packers for 1963 seventh round pick (#93-Gary Kroner). The recorded outcome does not show enough separation to identify a clear winner.
Los Angeles Rams received Larry Stephens, 1963 third round pick (#37-John Baker (b) / Johnny Baker) and 1963 sixth round pick (#79-Terry Monaghan) from Cleveland Browns for Frank Ryan and Tom Wilson. The recorded outcome favors Los Angeles Rams.
Dallas Cowboys received Gern Nagler and Preston Powell from Cleveland Browns for cash. The recorded outcome favors Cleveland Browns.
Cleveland Browns received Bill Glass (a), Jim Ninowski, Howard Cassady / Hopalong Cassady and 1963 fifth round pick (#68-Frank Baker) from Detroit Lions for Milt Plum, Tom Watkins / Tommy Watkins and Dave Lloyd. The recorded outcome does not show enough separation to identify a clear winner.
Pittsburgh Steelers received 1963 fifth round pick (#65) [later traded to San Francisco 49ers for John Burrell and Don Coffey] from Cleveland Browns for Charley Scales. The recorded outcome favors Pittsburgh Steelers.
Dallas Cowboys received Sam Baker (H.) from Cleveland Browns for Tom Franckhouser / Tom Franckhauser. The recorded outcome favors Cleveland Browns.
Cleveland acquired the rights to No. 1 overall pick Ernie Davis from Washington for star back Bobby Mitchell and the rights to Leroy Jackson. Davis was diagnosed with leukemia and tragically never played an NFL regular-season game. Mitchell became a Hall of Fame receiver in Washington, immediately leading the league in receiving yards in 1962 and remaining one of the franchise's defining stars of the decade.
Cleveland Browns received Errol Linden from Detroit Lions for 1962 eighth round pick (#109-Frank Imperiale). The recorded outcome favors Cleveland Browns.
Cleveland Browns received draft picks (undisclosed) from Minnesota Vikings for Jim Marshall (Lawrence) and Billy Gault. The recorded outcome favors Cleveland Browns.
Cleveland Browns received 1962 second round pick (#17-Charles Hinton / Chuck Hinton) and 1962 eleventh round pick (#142-Ron Meyers / Ronnie Meyers) from Minnesota Vikings for Dick Grecni and Paul Dickson. The recorded outcome favors Cleveland Browns.
Washington received Dick Lage from Cleveland Browns for draft pick (undisclosed). The recorded outcome favors Washington.
Minnesota sent Cleveland its 1962 second-round and eleventh-round picks for six players: Jim Prestel, Jim Marshall, Dick Grecni, Jamie Caleb, Billy Gault, and Paul Dickson. The Browns used the selections on Chuck Hinton and Ronnie Meyers. Marshall became the transformational piece, playing 19 seasons for Minnesota, anchoring the Purple People Eaters, appearing in four Super Bowls, and setting a remarkable durability standard.
Cleveland acquired veteran guard Duane Putnam from Dallas on August 15, 1961 for its 1962 third-round selection, No. 39 overall. Putnam appeared in all 14 Browns games that season and made four starts before returning to Los Angeles in 1962. Dallas used the acquired choice on TCU lineman Bobby Plummer, who never appeared in an NFL regular-season game. Cleveland received the only realized NFL value.
Cleveland Browns received 1962 third round pick (#42-John Furman) from Green Bay Packers for John Roach. The recorded outcome favors Cleveland Browns.
Cleveland Browns received John Roach from Arizona Cardinals for Prentice Gautt and Tazwell Anderson / Taz Anderson. The recorded outcome does not show enough separation to identify a clear winner.
Minnesota acquired defensive lineman Bob Denton from Cleveland for its 1962 tenth-round selection, No. 129 overall. Denton became a useful early Viking, appearing in 56 games from 1961 through 1964 and starting nine. Cleveland used the pick on center Jerry Goerlitz, who did not play a regular-season NFL game. The transaction was modest in scale, but Minnesota clearly received the better realized return.
Dallas moved tackle Paul Dickson and its 1962 first-round pick to Cleveland during the 1961 draft for the Browns' No. 13 selection, then used it on Bob Lilly. Lilly became the first draft choice in Cowboys history, a Hall of Famer, and the foundation of the Doomsday Defense. Cleveland still received a top-four future pick that became Gary Collins, making its return respectable.
Cleveland Browns received 1961 sixth round pick (#79-(Billy) Frank Parker) from Detroit Lions for William McClung / Willie McClung. The recorded outcome does not show enough separation to identify a clear winner.
Dallas Cowboys received Billy Howton from Cleveland Browns for draft pick (selection not identified). The recorded outcome favors Cleveland Browns.
Los Angeles Rams received 1961 third round pick (#41-Ron Miller (Rudolph)) from Cleveland Browns for Gene Selawski. The recorded outcome favors Los Angeles Rams.
Cleveland Browns received 1961 eighth round pick (#110-Fred Cox) from Green Bay Packers for Bob Jarus. The recorded outcome does not show enough separation to identify a clear winner.
Cleveland Browns received Leon Clarke from Los Angeles Rams for Bob Long (Wendell). The recorded outcome does not show enough separation to identify a clear winner.
Cleveland Browns received Bob Long (Wendell) and 1961 first round pick (#10-Bob Crespino / Bobby Crespino) from Detroit Lions for Jim Ninowski. The recorded outcome favors Detroit Lions.
Green Bay acquired defensive end Willie Davis from Cleveland on July 12, 1960 in a straight player-for-player swap for receiver A.D. Williams. Davis became a Hall of Famer, a five-time NFL champion with the Lombardi Packers, and the longtime captain of a dynasty defense. Williams played only two more NFL seasons and caught 14 passes after the trade, creating an enormous value gap.
Cleveland Browns received 1961 tenth round pick (#129-Wayne Wolff) from Washington for Jim Wulff. The recorded outcome favors Cleveland Browns.
Cleveland Browns received Don Fleming from Arizona Cardinals for 1961 sixth round pick (#83-Dick Thornton). The recorded outcome favors Arizona Cardinals.
Cleveland Browns received Sam Baker (H.) from Washington for Francis O'Brien / Fran O'Brien (b) and Bob Khayat. The recorded outcome favors Cleveland Browns.
Cleveland Browns received John Morrow from Los Angeles Rams for Art Hunter (b. 1933-04-24). The recorded outcome does not show enough separation to identify a clear winner.
Pittsburgh sent young quarterback Len Dawson and receiver Gern Nagler to Cleveland on New Year's Eve 1959 for defensive back Junior Wren and end Preston Carpenter. Dawson barely played for Cleveland before being released, while Nagler supplied two useful receiving seasons. Carpenter became a productive Steelers receiver and a 1962 Pro Bowler, giving Pittsburgh the better realized return despite Dawson's later Hall of Fame career elsewhere.
Cleveland sent defensive tackle Henry Jordan to Green Bay for the 1960 fourth-round pick that became Johnny Brewer. Jordan became a cornerstone of Vince Lombardi's defense, earned five straight All-Pro selections and four Pro Bowls, and played in the Packers' championship dynasty. Brewer did not approach that level of impact, making Green Bay the decisive long-term winner.
Pittsburgh Steelers received rights to Darrel Brewster / Pete Brewster and 1960 fifth round pick (#55-Abner Haynes) from Cleveland Browns for 1960 second round pick (#18-Larry Stephens). The recorded outcome favors Cleveland Browns.
Cleveland Browns received 1960 draft pick (undisclosed) from Arizona Cardinals for Tom Catlin. The recorded outcome does not show enough separation to identify a clear winner.
Cleveland Browns received 1960 fifth round pick (#53-Bob Jarus) from Green Bay Packers for Bob Freeman / Bobby Freeman. The recorded outcome favors Cleveland Browns.
Cleveland Browns received Billy Howton from Green Bay Packers for Lew Carpenter and Bill Quinlan / Billy Quinlan. The recorded outcome favors Green Bay Packers.
Cleveland Browns received 1959 fifth round pick (#53-John Wooten) from Detroit Lions for Jim Gibbons. The recorded outcome does not show enough separation to identify a clear winner.
Cleveland Browns received Dick Deschaine from Green Bay Packers for 1959 eighth round pick (#95-Bob Laraba). The recorded outcome does not show enough separation to identify a clear winner.
Pittsburgh Steelers received Bill Reynolds / Billy Reynolds from Cleveland Browns for William McClung / Willie McClung. The recorded outcome favors Cleveland Browns.
Cleveland Browns received 1959 conditional eighth round pick (if Gillis makes Cardinals roster) (#87-Bob Ptacek) from Arizona Cardinals for Don Gillis. The recorded outcome favors Cleveland Browns.
New York Giants received undisclosed consideration and Bob Mischak from Cleveland Browns for undisclosed consideration and 1959 sixth round pick (#70-Jim Prestel). The recorded outcome favors Cleveland Browns.
Cleveland Browns received 1959 fourth round pick (#37-Gary Prahst) from Green Bay Packers for Len Ford / Lenny Ford. The recorded outcome favors Cleveland Browns.
Cleveland Browns received 1958 third round pick (#34-Melwood Guy / Melvin Guy / Mel Guy / Buzz Guy) from Detroit Lions for Frank Gatski. The recorded outcome favors Detroit Lions.
Cleveland Browns received Lew Carpenter and 1958 fifth round pick (#61-Jim Gibbons) from Detroit Lions for Roger Zatkoff. The recorded outcome does not show enough separation to identify a clear winner.
Cleveland Browns received James Haluska / Jim Haluska from Chicago Bears for 1958 third round pick (#37-Don Healy). The recorded outcome favors Chicago Bears.
Cleveland Browns and Los Angeles Rams agreed to exchange Rudy Bukich and Roger Zatkoff, but the transaction was mutually cancelled after Zatkoff refused to report to the Rams. No completed exchange occurred.
Cleveland Browns received Bobby Garrett and Roger Zatkoff from Green Bay Packers for Vito Parilli / Babe Parilli, John Petitbon, Billy Kinard, Sam Palumbo, John Macelli / John Macerelli and Carlton Massey. The recorded outcome favors Green Bay Packers.
New York Giants received undisclosed consideration and Gene Filipski from Cleveland Browns for undisclosed consideration and 1957 seventh round pick (#82-Mike Rotunno). The recorded outcome favors Cleveland Browns.
Cleveland Browns received 1957 fifth round pick (possibly #52-Henry Jordan) and 1957 sixth round pick (possibly #63-Joe Amstutz) from Green Bay Packers for John Sandusky and Chester Lyssy / Chet Lyssy. The recorded outcome does not show enough separation to identify a clear winner.
Cleveland Browns received 1957 sixth round pick (#63-Joe Amstutz) from Green Bay Packers for George Cummins. The recorded outcome does not show enough separation to identify a clear winner.
Cleveland Browns received undisclosed draft pick (undisclosed) from Green Bay Packers for Jack Locklear. The recorded outcome does not show enough separation to identify a clear winner.
Cleveland sent Don King and Gene Donaldson to Green Bay in April 1956 for the Packers' 1957 fifth-round choice, which became Henry Jordan at No. 52. Green Bay's own historical transaction record supports that fifth-round price. King played only briefly for the Packers and Donaldson was waived before the season, while Jordan gave Cleveland two seasons before becoming a valuable trade asset himself.
Pittsburgh Steelers received Marion Motley from Cleveland Browns for Ed Modzelewski. The recorded outcome does not show enough separation to identify a clear winner.
Cleveland Browns received rights to Art Hunter (b. 1933-04-24) from Green Bay Packers for Bill Lucky and Joe Skibinski. The recorded outcome favors Green Bay Packers.
Chicago acquired future Hall of Fame defensive end Doug Atkins and safety Ken Gorgal from Cleveland before the 1955 season for third- and sixth-round picks in the 1956 draft. The Bears' own history identifies those picks as Larry Ross at No. 34 and Sherman Plunkett at No. 71. No additional player belongs in Cleveland's return, so the unsupported undisclosed asset is removed.
Cleveland Browns received Dreher Gaskin / Marion Gaskin from Detroit Lions for 1955 eighth round pick (#97-Lamoine Holland). The recorded outcome favors Cleveland Browns.
Cleveland Browns received Don Paul (b) from Washington for Johnny Carson and Dale Atkeson. The recorded outcome favors Cleveland Browns.
Cleveland Browns received Vito Parilli / Babe Parilli and Bob Fleck from Green Bay Packers for Bobby Garrett, John Bauer, Don Miller (b) / Jack Miller and Chet Gierula. The recorded outcome favors Green Bay Packers.
Cleveland Browns received Fred Morrison / Curly Morrison and 1955 third round pick (#35-John Hall (b)) from Chicago Bears for Harry Jagade / Chuck Jagade / Chick Jagade. The recorded outcome favors Cleveland Browns.
Cleveland Browns received 1955 fourth round pick (#41-Paul Reynolds) from Green Bay Packers for Jerry Helluin. The recorded outcome favors Cleveland Browns.
San Francisco 49ers received Fred Bruney from Cleveland Browns for 1954 eighth round pick (#95-Bill Barbish) -OR- 1954 tenth round pick (#119-Don Goss). The recorded outcome favors Cleveland Browns.
San Francisco 49ers received Bob Van Doren from Cleveland Browns for 1954 eighth round pick (#95-Bill Barbish) -OR- 1954 tenth round pick (#119-Don Goss). The recorded outcome favors San Francisco 49ers.
Indianapolis/Baltimore Colts received Tom Cosgrove from Cleveland Browns for 1954 sixth round pick (#64-Jim Ray Smith). The recorded outcome favors Cleveland Browns.
Indianapolis/Baltimore Colts received Harry Agganis, Dick Batten, Gern Nagler, Bert Rechichar, Ed Sharkey, Stu Sheetz, Don Shula, Art Spinney, Carl Taseff and Elmer Willhoite from Cleveland Browns for Tom Catlin, Don Colo, Herschel Forester / Herschel Forrester, Mike McCormack and John Petitbon. The recorded outcome favors Cleveland Browns.
Cleveland Browns received undisclosed terms (undisclosed) from Green Bay Packers for Steve Ruzich. The recorded outcome does not show enough separation to identify a clear winner.
Cleveland Browns received Tony Adamle from Green Bay Packers for player to be named later (undisclosed). The recorded outcome does not show enough separation to identify a clear winner.
Cleveland Browns received 1953 third round pick (#37-Gene Donaldson (a)) from Detroit Lions for Robert Smith (Lee) / Bob Smith (Lee). The recorded outcome does not show enough separation to identify a clear winner.
Cleveland Browns received Darrel Brewster / Pete Brewster from Arizona Cardinals for Burl Toler (a). The recorded outcome favors Cleveland Browns.
Cleveland Browns received Ace Loomis from Green Bay Packers for Tony Adamle and Don Phelps. The recorded outcome favors Green Bay Packers.
Cleveland Browns received Walt Michaels from Green Bay Packers for Forrest Grigg / Chubby Grigg, Dick Logan and Elmer Costa / Zeke Costa. The recorded outcome favors Green Bay Packers.
Cleveland Browns received 1952 eighth round pick (#86-Stan Williams (a)) and 1952 third round pick (#26-Don Klosterman) from New York Yanks for undisclosed historical consideration. The recorded outcome favors Cleveland Browns.
Cleveland Browns received rights to Bob Gain and 1952 fourth round pick (#39-Elmer Costa) from Green Bay Packers for Dan Orlich, Bill Schroll / Chuck Schroll / Charley Schroll, Ace Loomis and Dominick Moselle / Dom Moselle. The recorded outcome favors Green Bay Packers.
Cleveland Browns received Dan Orlich from Green Bay Packers for Walt Michaels. The recorded outcome does not show enough separation to identify a clear winner.
Cleveland Browns received Bill Schroll / Chuck Schroll / Charley Schroll, Ed Wood (a), 1952 first round pick (#10-Bert Rechichar), 1952 16th round pick (#189-Herb Neathery) and cash from Detroit Lions for Jim Martin, Ed Pasky, Tom Lucia, Lowell Tew and Dave Rakestraw. The recorded outcome favors Detroit Lions.
Cleveland Browns received 1951 seventh round pick (#82-Irv Holdash) from New York Yanks for John Yonakor. The recorded outcome favors Cleveland Browns.
Cleveland Browns received 1951 ninth round pick (#105-Burl Toler) and 1951 twelfth round pick (#142-Milan Seillers) from Detroit Lions for Jim Duncan (a)? and Bill Schroll / Chuck Schroll / Charley Schroll. The recorded outcome favors Detroit Lions.
Cleveland Browns received 1951 fourth round pick (#41-Bob Smith (b)) from Green Bay Packers for Bill Boedecker. The recorded outcome favors Cleveland Browns.
Cleveland Browns received 1951 eighth round pick (#88-Art Spinney) from Green Bay Packers for Tom O'Malley (a). The recorded outcome does not show enough separation to identify a clear winner.
San Francisco 49ers received Gordon Soltau / Gordy Soltau / Gordie Soltau from Cleveland Browns for 1951 fourth round pick (#39-Bob Oristaglio). The recorded outcome favors San Francisco 49ers.
San Francisco 49ers received Packard Harrington from Cleveland Browns for conditional draft pick (if Harrington makes 49ers roster) (not exercised). The recorded outcome favors San Francisco 49ers.
Cleveland Browns received Gordon Soltau / Gordy Soltau / Gordie Soltau from Green Bay Packers for Joe Spencer (Emerson). The recorded outcome does not show enough separation to identify a clear winner.
Cleveland Browns received 1951 ninth round pick (undisclosed) from Indianapolis/Baltimore Colts for Jim Brasher. The recorded outcome favors Cleveland Browns.
Cleveland Browns received cash from Detroit Lions for Bill O'Connor / Zeke O'Connor. The recorded outcome does not show enough separation to identify a clear winner.
Cleveland transferred its rights to Doak Walker to Detroit on January 21, 1950, for the Lions' second-round pick, No. 18 overall, which became John Sandusky. Walker became a Hall of Fame centerpiece of Detroit's championship era. Cleveland still received a useful player in Sandusky, who spent multiple seasons with the Browns, so the old D grade understated the value Cleveland actually recovered.
Cleveland Browns acquired William Jones / Dub Jones; Jay Smith; Bob Jensen from Brooklyn Dodgers for rights to Bob Chappuis. Cleveland Browns received the stronger long-term football value, matching the Cleveland Browns Win verdict.
Cleveland signed rookie quarterback Y.A. Tittle before the 1948 AAFC season, but league commissioner Jonas Ingram shifted him to Baltimore as part of a talent-balancing program. Transaction histories date Tittle's move to April 14, 1948. This was not a normal negotiated trade for Cleveland compensation, and Charley O'Rourke came to Baltimore from the Los Angeles Dons rather than from Cleveland.
Cleveland Browns acquired player(s) to be named later (undisclosed) from Baltimore/Indianapolis Colts for Ernie Blandin. Cleveland Browns received the stronger long-term football value, matching the Cleveland Browns Win verdict.
Cleveland Browns acquired Bill Boedeker from Brooklyn Rockets for Jim Daniel / Jim Daniell; John Harrington. Cleveland Browns received the stronger long-term football value, matching the Cleveland Browns Win verdict.
Cleveland Browns acquired rights to Frank Aschenbrenner from Buffalo Bills for Alton Coppage / Al Coppage; George Grove; John Kern. Cleveland Browns received the stronger long-term football value, matching the Cleveland Browns Win verdict.