Minnesota Vikings
Trade grades, verdicts, asset movement, and historical context for Minnesota Vikings franchise trades.
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Minnesota Vikings
New England acquired Walter Rouse and Minnesota’s 2027 seventh-round pick for a 2027 sixth-round pick on August 30, 2026. Rouse, a 2024 sixth-rounder with eight NFL appearances, gives the Patriots tackle-guard depth after an injury weakened their reserve line. Minnesota improves its draft slot while moving surplus depth, but New England gets the slight edge because the pick downgrade buys a young, experienced lineman at a position of need.
Minnesota Vikings acquired 2026 6th round pick (198th overall, Demond Claiborne) from New England Patriots for 2026 7th round pick (234th overall, Behren Morton) and a 2027 6th round pick. The available record does not show enough separation to call a clear long-term winner.
Minnesota moved down two spots in the second round of the 2026 draft, sending Nos. 49 and 196 to Carolina for Nos. 51 and 159. The Panthers used No. 49 on Lee Hunter, while the Vikings selected Jake Golday at No. 51 and Max Bredeson at No. 159. Minnesota preserved access to a second-round target while improving from the sixth to the fifth round, supporting a B- versus Carolina's C.
Philadelphia acquired Jonathan Greenard and pick No. 244 from Minnesota for pick No. 98 and a 2027 third-round selection, then committed a major extension to the veteran edge defender. Greenard brought a Pro Bowl résumé but entered 2026 after an injury-limited 2025 season, and a pectoral issue later threatened his availability for the start of the season. The upside still supports a B for Philadelphia, while Minnesota's two third-round assets earn a C.
Minnesota brought Adam Thielen home along with a 2026 seventh-round pick and a 2027 fifth-rounder, while Carolina received a 2026 fifth and a 2027 fourth. Thielen produced only eight catches for 69 yards in 11 Vikings games before his Minnesota return ended. Carolina therefore converted an aging receiver into the two more valuable selections, creating a clear value advantage for the Panthers.
Indianapolis acquired Mekhi Blackmon from Minnesota for a 2026 sixth-round pick shortly before roster cuts, betting on a corner returning from a torn ACL. Blackmon responded by playing all 17 games, starting 11 and recording 64 tackles, seven passes defensed, two interceptions and a sack. Minnesota moved the sixth-rounder again, leaving the Colts with the clearly stronger direct football return.
Minnesota sent Sam Howell and a 2026 sixth-round pick to Philadelphia for a 2026 fifth and a 2027 seventh. Howell did not record a regular-season pass for the Eagles in 2025, serving as quarterback depth rather than creating measurable game production. Minnesota's fifth became pick No. 163, Charles Demmings, while the Vikings also retained the future seventh. The stronger draft position gives Minnesota the early advantage.
The Jets acquired defensive tackle Harrison Phillips and a 2027 seventh-round pick from Minnesota on August 21, 2025, sending the Vikings 2026 and 2027 sixth-round selections. Phillips then started all 17 games for New York and recorded 60 tackles, adding dependable interior snaps immediately. Minnesota gained two draft assets for a veteran it was prepared to move, but the Jets received the stronger proven return.
Minnesota sent pick 142 to Seattle for quarterback Sam Howell and pick 172, then converted No. 172 into picks 201 and 202 for Kobe King and Gavin Bartholomew. Howell did not make the regular-season roster, but Minnesota later packaged him and a 2026 sixth to Philadelphia for 2026 fifth- and 2027 seventh-round picks. Seattle used 142 on Rylie Mills, leaving a modest Vikings edge.
Minnesota Vikings acquired 2025 6th round pick (201st overall, Kobe King) and 2025 6th round pick (202nd overall, Gavin Bartholomew) from Los Angeles Rams for 2025 5th round pick (172nd overall, Chris Paul). The available record does not show enough separation to call a clear long-term winner.
Minnesota moved from No. 97 to No. 102 in the 2025 third round and also moved from No. 187 to No. 142, selecting receiver Tai Felton while Houston selected cornerback Jaylin Smith. The two clubs essentially exchanged small pockets of draft position across two rounds. Neither side has created enough separation yet to justify more than an even verdict.
Minnesota acquired Jordan Mason and a 2025 sixth-round pick from San Francisco for a 2025 fifth-rounder and a 2026 sixth-rounder. Mason immediately supplied starting-caliber rushing production, while the 49ers turned the fifth-round slot into safety Marques Sigle and retained another future selection. Both teams found usable value, but Mason's 2025 workload gives Minnesota the modest edge.
Houston acquired guard Ed Ingram from Minnesota for a 2026 sixth-round pick after he had lost his Vikings starting job. Ingram rebounded to start 14 regular-season games and both Texans playoff games in 2025, then earned a three-year extension. Minnesota moved the acquired sixth-rounder in the Jordan Mason trade and later reacquired the same draft slot at additional cost, strengthening Houston's side.
Minnesota acquired Cam Robinson at midseason after Christian Darrisaw was injured and received the veteran tackle play it urgently needed during a 14-win season. Jacksonville ultimately secured a 2026 fourth-round pick, a respectable return for a player on an expiring contract. The Jaguars were compensated fairly, but Robinson's immediate role in stabilizing Minnesota's line gives the Vikings the modest edge.
Minnesota acquired Cam Akers and 2026 7th round pick (244th overall subsequently traded, Cole Wisniewski) from Houston Texans for 2026 6th round pick (198th overall subsequently traded, Demond Claiborne). The deal grades as balanced. Neither side clearly separated after weighing player value, draft capital, roster impact, and what each team gave up.
Minnesota and Dallas swapped former second-round cornerbacks Nahshon Wright and Andrew Booth Jr. during the 2024 preseason. Wright appeared in only one regular-season game for the Vikings, while Booth played seven games and made two starts for Dallas. The Cowboys received somewhat more immediate snaps, but neither player became a durable piece for the acquiring club, keeping the trade essentially even.
Minnesota moved from No. 23 to No. 17 in 2024 for edge rusher Dallas Turner, sending Jacksonville four selections. Turner developed from a rookie reserve into a 10-game starter with eight sacks and four forced fumbles in 2025. Jacksonville still owns the stronger return because No. 23 became Brian Thomas Jr., who posted a 1,282-yard Pro Bowl rookie season, while the additional Jaguars assets provided extra value around him.
Minnesota moved from No. 11 to No. 10 in 2024 for quarterback J.J. McCarthy and also received No. 203, used on kicker Will Reichard. New York drafted left tackle Olu Fashanu and moved the additional picks in later deals. Fashanu became a 17-game starter in 2025, while McCarthy’s first playing season produced 1,632 yards, 11 touchdowns and 12 interceptions. Reichard’s First-Team All-Pro season keeps Minnesota’s return competitive despite the quarterback uncertainty.
Minnesota acquired 2024 1st round pick (23rd overall) and 2024 7th round pick (232nd overall, Levi Drake Rodriguez) from Houston for picks 42 and 188 plus a 2025 second-round pick. Minnesota later combined pick 23 with three unrelated picks to acquire Dallas Turner, while Houston's future second also entered a compound downstream package. Neither complete later return can be assigned wholly to this trade.
Minnesota acquired Joshua Dobbs and a conditional 2024 seventh-round pick from Arizona for a sixth after Kirk Cousins tore his Achilles. Dobbs delivered two memorable comeback wins but finished his Vikings stint with 895 passing yards, five touchdowns and five interceptions before losing the job. The seventh-rounder became Michael Jurgens, who made three center starts in 2025. Arizona received a sixth-round asset. Minnesota still won, but the original A- grade was too generous.
Minnesota sent starting guard Ezra Cleveland to Jacksonville at the 2023 deadline for a 2024 sixth-round pick, which became tackle Walter Rouse at No. 177. Cleveland quickly became a Jaguars starter, re-signed in 2024 and started 36 regular-season games for Jacksonville through 2025. Rouse played eight games without a start over his first two Vikings seasons. Jacksonville obtained far more immediate and sustained value.
Minnesota Vikings acquired Cam Akers and a conditional 2026 pick (7th round; did not convey) from Los Angeles Rams for a conditional 2026 pick (6th round; did not convey). The overall result favors Vikings over Minnesota Vikings.
Minnesota Vikings acquired 2024 6th round pick (188th overall subsequently traded, Jamal Hill) from New England Patriots for Vederian Lowe. Minnesota Vikings received the stronger recorded football value, matching the Minnesota Vikings Win verdict.
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.
Minnesota Vikings acquired 2023 4th round pick (134th overall, Jay Ward) and 2024 5th round pick (167th overall subsequently traded, Keilan Robinson) from Kansas City Chiefs for 2023 4th round pick (119th overall, Chamarri Conner). The overall result favors Vikings over Minnesota Vikings.
Minnesota acquired 2023 5th round pick (141st overall, Jaquelin Roy) from Baltimore/Indianapolis Colts for 2023 5th round pick (158th overall, Daniel Scott) and 2023 6th round pick (211th overall, Titus Leo). The deal grades as balanced. Neither side clearly separated after weighing player value, draft capital, roster impact, and what each team gave up.
Minnesota traded pick No. 87 to San Francisco in the 2023 draft for Nos. 102, 164 and 222. The Vikings selected Mekhi Blackmon, Jaren Hall and DeWayne McBride, while the 49ers used No. 87 on safety Ji'Ayir Brown. Brown became the most durable starter in the deal, reaching 31 starts and five interceptions through 2025. San Francisco therefore produced the stronger concentrated return.
Minnesota acquired T.J. Hockenson plus two later picks from Detroit for a 2023 second and 2024 third. Hockenson became a central target, setting a Vikings tight end record with 95 catches and 960 yards in 2023 before a severe knee injury reduced his next two seasons. Detroit repeatedly moved the acquired picks, with the assets helping lead to Hendon Hooker and the 2024 move for Terrion Arnold. Minnesota still holds a narrow edge.
Minnesota acquired Jalen Reagor from Philadelphia for a 2023 seventh-round pick and a conditional 2024 fourth that became a fifth. Reagor caught only eight passes for 104 yards in his lone Vikings season and was waived the following summer. Philadelphia did not keep the two picks through their final selections, but converting a player buried on the depth chart into future draft capital was still useful. The Eagles won by selling before Reagor's value disappeared.
Minnesota Vikings acquired Ross Blacklock and 2023 7th round pick (219th overall subsequently traded, Antoine Green) from Houston Texans for 2023 6th round pick (201st overall, Jarrett Patterson). The stronger recorded return sits with Houston Texans, matching the Houston Texans Win verdict.
Minnesota traded Jesse Davis to Pittsburgh after rookie Ed Ingram won the Vikings' right-guard job, receiving a conditional seventh-round pick. Davis appeared in 14 games for the Steelers in 2022 but did not start, serving primarily as experienced depth. The condition attached to the pick did not produce meaningful value for Minnesota in the locked record. Pittsburgh therefore gets a narrow win for obtaining usable veteran depth at essentially no realized draft cost.
Minnesota acquired Nick Mullens from Las Vegas for a conditional 2024 seventh-round pick. Mullens became a multi-year Vikings backup and, when injuries struck in 2023, started three games while throwing for 1,306 yards and seven touchdowns across five appearances. Las Vegas eventually used pick No. 229 on M.J. Devonshire. For a seventh-round cost, Minnesota received meaningful quarterback insurance and emergency starting production, making the trade a clear Vikings win.
Minnesota traded picks No. 122 and No. 250 to Las Vegas for Nos. 126 and 227 in the 2022 draft. The Raiders selected Zamir White and Brittain Brown. Minnesota took Nick Muse at No. 227 and immediately flipped No. 126 for Nos. 165 and 169, adding Esezi Otomewo and Ty Chandler. Chandler's production roughly matched White's, while the Vikings also gained extra depth, creating a narrow Minnesota edge.
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.
Green Bay sent picks 53 and 59 to Minnesota for No. 34 and selected Christian Watson. Watson has 133 catches for 2,264 yards and 20 receiving touchdowns through four seasons and signed another extension in 2026. Minnesota used No. 59 on Ed Ingram and later packaged No. 53 with other picks to move up for Andrew Booth Jr. Ingram supplied 41 starts, but Watson became the highest-impact player, giving Green Bay the win.
Minnesota Vikings acquired 2022 2nd round pick (42nd overall, Andrew Booth) and 2022 4th round pick (122nd overall subsequently traded, Zamir White) from Indianapolis Colts for 2022 2nd round pick (53rd overall, Alec Pierce), 2022 3rd round pick (77th overall, Bernhard Raimann) and 2022 6th round pick (192nd overall, Andrew Ogletree). The stronger recorded return sits with Indianapolis Colts, matching the Indianapolis Colts Win verdict.
Detroit sent picks 32, 34 and 66 to Minnesota for Nos. 12 and 46, selecting Jameson Williams and Josh Paschal. Williams has surpassed 1,000 receiving yards in consecutive seasons and signed an extension through 2029; Paschal has supplied defensive-line depth. Minnesota drafted Lewis Cine and Brian Asamoah and later moved No. 34 through additional trades. Cine was waived after two seasons, and the Vikings never found comparable value. Detroit won decisively.
Denver acquired edge defender Stephen Weatherly and a 2023 seventh-round pick from Minnesota for a 2022 seventh-round pick. The Vikings' selection became No. 250 before another trade, while Denver's later pick became No. 241 before it also moved. The recorded outcome favors the Denver Broncos side only to the degree reflected by the grades, with the long-term result driven by what the acquired players and picks actually produced.
Minnesota acquired Chris Herndon plus a 2022 sixth-round pick from the Jets for a 2022 fourth after Irv Smith Jr. suffered a season-ending injury. Herndon played all 16 games but caught only four passes for 40 yards and one touchdown. The sixth-rounder became Vederian Lowe, whom Minnesota later traded to New England for another sixth. New York used pick No. 117 on Micheal Clemons, who has 8.5 sacks and 24 starts through four seasons. The Jets won decisively.
Minnesota Vikings acquired 2022 6th round pick (191st overall, Jalen Nailor) from Kansas City Chiefs for Mike Hughes and 2022 7th round pick (233rd overall subsequently traded, Dareke Young). The overall result favors Vikings over Minnesota Vikings.
Minnesota moved from No. 14 to No. 23 in 2021 and received two third-round picks, selecting Christian Darrisaw, Kellen Mond and Wyatt Davis. Darrisaw became a high-level starting left tackle and earned an extension through 2029; Mond and Davis failed to stick. New York used No. 14 on Alijah Vera-Tucker, a versatile starting lineman whose career has been repeatedly interrupted by major injuries. Darrisaw plus the additional opportunities keep Minnesota ahead.
Minnesota Vikings acquired Mason Cole from Arizona Cardinals for 2021 6th round pick (223rd overall, Tay Gowan). The overall result favors Vikings over Minnesota Vikings.
Minnesota sent Yannick Ngakoue to Baltimore after only six games, receiving a 2021 third-round pick and a conditional 2022 fifth. The Ravens got three sacks in nine regular-season games before Ngakoue left in free agency. Minnesota used the third-rounder on Patrick Jones II, who recorded 12 sacks across four Vikings seasons, including seven in 2024, while the fifth became part of later draft movement. The Vikings clearly recovered more value.
Minnesota acquired Yannick Ngakoue from Jacksonville for a 2021 second-round pick and conditional 2022 fifth, but the experiment lasted only six games. Ngakoue recorded five sacks before the Vikings traded him to Baltimore for a third and conditional fifth, recovering much of the cost. Jacksonville used the second-rounder on Walker Little, who developed into a starting tackle and earned an extension in 2024. The Jaguars won, though Minnesota's successful salvage keeps the loss from being severe.
Minnesota Vikings acquired 2020 7th round pick (225th overall, Kenny Willekes) and 2021 5th round pick (168th overall, Zach Davidson) from Baltimore Ravens for 2020 6th round pick (201st overall, James Proche) and 2020 7th round pick (219th overall, Geno Stone). The overall result favors Baltimore Ravens over Minnesota Vikings.
Minnesota turned a future fourth-round pick into safety Camryn Bynum after Chicago used the acquired 2020 fifth-rounder on edge rusher Trevis Gipson. Gipson supplied some pass-rush production during three Bears seasons, but Bynum became a full-time Vikings starter from 2022 through 2024, starting every regular-season game in that span and producing eight interceptions before leaving in free agency.
Minnesota sent New Orleans pick No. 105, which became tight end Adam Trautman, and received four later selections that became James Lynch, Harrison Hand, Blake Brandel and Nate Stanley. Trautman developed into a useful Saints tight end, but Brandel became a long-term Vikings lineman and eventual starter, while Lynch and Hand added supporting snaps. Minnesota's broader return produced slightly more lasting value.
San Francisco moved from No. 31 to No. 25 and selected Brandon Aiyuk, while Minnesota used the return on Jeff Gladney, D.J. Wonnum and K.J. Osborn. The Vikings extracted multiple useful players, especially Wonnum and Osborn, but Aiyuk became an All-Pro receiver with consecutive 1,000-yard seasons and a major extension. His top-end impact gives the 49ers a narrow but meaningful win.
Buffalo acquired Stefon Diggs and immediately gained the No. 1 receiver who helped Josh Allen and the Bills offense reach another level. Minnesota used the first-round pick on Justin Jefferson and found an even younger franchise receiver, with additional draft value included in the return. Both teams achieved the exact strategic outcome they needed.
Minnesota Vikings
Minnesota Vikings acquired Mark Fields from Kansas City Chiefs for a conditional 2021 pick (7th-round; not conveyed). The available record does not show enough separation to call a clear long-term winner.
Miami acquired guard Danny Isidora from Minnesota on the eve of final roster cuts for a 2020 seventh-round pick. Minnesota later moved that selection in another deal, while Miami immediately added an experienced interior lineman to a roster undergoing a major rebuild. The Miami Dolphins produced the stronger realized return, supporting the Miami Dolphins Win verdict.
Minnesota sent Baltimore a 2020 fifth-round pick for kicker-punter Kaare Vedvik after a strong 2019 preseason showing. The Vikings were searching for stability in the kicking operation, while the Ravens had Justin Tucker and Sam Koch entrenched and could afford to sell a developmental specialist. The Baltimore Ravens produced the stronger realized return, supporting the Baltimore Ravens Win verdict.
Minnesota moved up six spots in the fourth round of the 2019 draft, sending Seattle picks No. 120 and No. 204 for No. 114. The Vikings selected Oklahoma guard Dru Samia, while Seattle used No. 120 on Gary Jennings and No. 204 on running back Travis Homer. The Seattle Seahawks produced the stronger realized return, supporting the Seattle Seahawks Win verdict.
Minnesota moved down from Byron Cowart's slot and added a seventh-round pick. New England received the cleaner single asset and the better realized value.
Seattle moved up from No. 92 to No. 88 in the third round of the 2019 draft and also received No. 209. Minnesota received No. 92 and fifth-rounder No. 159. The Seahawks selected linebacker Cody Barton at 88 and defensive tackle Demarcus Christmas at 209. The Minnesota Vikings produced the stronger realized return, supporting the Minnesota Vikings Win verdict.
Minnesota sent pick No. 93 to Baltimore and received Nos. 102, 191 and 193. The Vikings selected Alexander Mattison, Marcus Epps and Oli Udoh, extracting several seasons of useful roster value from the three selections. Mattison served as Dalvin Cook’s primary backup before becoming the starter in 2023, while Udoh provided multi-position offensive-line depth. Baltimore used No. 93 on Miles Boykin, whose receiving impact remained limited.
Detroit moved from No. 88 to No. 81 in the third round of the 2019 draft, sending Minnesota pick No. 88 and sixth-rounder No. 204. The Lions used No. 81 on Boston College safety Will Harris, while Minnesota subsequently used the incoming selections as ammunition in additional draft-day trades. The Detroit Lions produced the stronger realized return, supporting the Detroit Lions Win verdict.
The Jets moved up one spot from No. 93 to No. 92 in the 2019 third round and selected tackle Chuma Edoga. Minnesota received No. 93 plus seventh-round pick No. 217, then continued trading: No. 93 went to Baltimore for Nos. 102, 191 and 193, while No. 217 became cornerback Kris Boyd. The Minnesota Vikings produced the stronger realized return, supporting the Minnesota Vikings Win verdict.
Minnesota acquired center Brett Jones from the Giants for a 2019 seventh-round pick and immediately used him as injury insurance. Jones started the first three games of 2018 while Pat Elflein recovered, returned for additional seasons, and later remained useful interior-line depth. New York's pick became George Asafo-Adjei, who did not create comparable Giants value, giving Minnesota the edge.
Minnesota moved up for kicker Daniel Carlson and also received Devante Downs, while New York obtained picks that became Folorunso Fatukasi and Trenton Cannon. Carlson’s later All-Pro career came with the Raiders, not the Vikings: Minnesota waived him after two games following early kicking struggles. Fatukasi developed into a useful Jets defensive lineman, so the original Vikings grade badly over-credits success that occurred only after Carlson left Minnesota.
Minnesota sent pick No. 94 to Tampa Bay for Nos. 102 and 180. The Buccaneers used No. 94 on Alex Cappa, who developed into a starting right guard and played on the 2020 Super Bowl championship team. Minnesota drafted Jalyn Holmes at No. 102 and later moved No. 180 in another trade, but the resulting branch produced far less Vikings value than Cappa delivered in Tampa Bay.
Minnesota acquired quarterback Trevor Siemian and the 225th pick in the 2018 draft from Denver for a 2019 fifth-round selection. Siemian served as Kirk Cousins' backup for one season and did not make a regular-season start for the Vikings. Denver eventually used the fifth-round return on linebacker Justin Hollins, who appeared in 15 games as a rookie. The Broncos gained the slightly cleaner direct return.
Minnesota traded pick No. 139 to Kansas City for picks No. 170 and No. 180 in the 2017 draft. The Vikings selected receiver Rodney Adams and guard Danny Isidora, while the Chiefs chose receiver Jehu Chesson. Adams made little impact, but Isidora appeared in 21 games for Minnesota and made several starts. Chesson caught only two passes for Kansas City before his tenure ended, giving Minnesota the better modest return.
Minnesota Vikings acquired 2017 6th round pick (201st overall, Bucky Hodges) and 2017 7th round pick (220th overall, Ifeadi Odenigbo) from Washington Commanders for 2017 6th round pick (199th overall, Chase Roullier) and 2017 7th round pick (230th overall, Josh Harvey-Clemons). The overall result favors Washington Redskins/Commanders over Minnesota Vikings.
Philadelphia moved from No. 139 to No. 132 in the 2017 fourth round and selected running back Donnel Pumphrey, sending Minnesota No. 139 and No. 230. Pumphrey never appeared in a regular-season game for the Eagles. Minnesota kept trading those selections and eventually turned the chain into several players, including defensive end Ifeadi Odenigbo, who became a productive Vikings rotational pass rusher and 15-game starter in 2020.
Kansas City sent picks No. 104, 132 and 245 to Minnesota to jump to No. 86 for Kareem Hunt. Hunt immediately led the NFL with 1,327 rushing yards as a rookie and remained an explosive offensive weapon until the Chiefs released him during the 2018 season. Minnesota repeatedly traded the return and ultimately produced players including Jaleel Johnson, Stacy Coley, Rodney Adams, Danny Isidora and Jack Tocho, none matching Hunt’s peak impact.
Minnesota moved from No. 48 to No. 41 in the 2017 second round for Dalvin Cook, sending Cincinnati pick No. 48 and No. 128. Cook became a four-time Pro Bowler and one of the Vikings' most productive modern running backs. Cincinnati selected Joe Mixon at No. 48, and Mixon produced seven strong seasons, a Pro Bowl campaign and major postseason contributions. Both teams found foundational offensive value.
Minnesota traded picks No. 79 and No. 160 to the Jets for No. 70, then selected center Pat Elflein. Elflein became an immediate starter, earned PFWA All-Rookie honors and started 43 games for the Vikings across four seasons. New York selected ArDarius Stewart at No. 79 and later moved the fifth-round asset through additional trades, but its resulting players did not match the sustained starting value Minnesota received.
San Francisco sent picks No. 109 and No. 219 to Minnesota to move back into the 2017 third round for quarterback C.J. Beathard. Beathard made 12 starts and provided several seasons of backup value for the 49ers. Minnesota selected defensive tackle Jaleel Johnson and receiver Stacy Coley; Johnson became a four-year rotational lineman with 20 starts. Neither side found a star, but both received useful depth.
Minnesota acquired Sam Bradford after Teddy Bridgewater's catastrophic knee injury, sending Philadelphia a first-round pick and a fourth-round pick. Bradford delivered a strong 2016 season but could not provide durable long-term value. The Eagles used the picks on Derek Barnett and Josh Sweat, two important defenders in the franchise's championship era.
Minnesota Vikings come out ahead in this trade. The final grade profile (Minnesota Vikings B-, Philadelphia Eagles C) supports the existing verdict and gives the winning side the cleaner value result.
Miami paid a 2016 sixth-rounder plus 2017 third- and fourth-round picks to move up for Leonte Carroo at No. 86. Carroo caught only 12 passes for 192 yards in three Dolphins seasons. Minnesota kept trading the acquired capital, turning it into multiple later opportunities instead of one player. The Vikings' return was indirect, but the amount of usable draft value clearly surpassed Miami's result.
Minnesota traded linebacker Gerald Hodges to San Francisco in October 2015 for center Nick Easton and a 2016 sixth-round pick, later used on Moritz Boehringer. Boehringer never became a regular-season factor, but Easton developed into a useful Vikings interior lineman and made 17 starts for Minnesota. Hodges gave the 49ers immediate linebacker snaps, yet the combined Easton-plus-pick return created the better long-term value for the Vikings.
Minnesota Vikings come out ahead in this trade. The final grade profile (Los Angeles Chargers C, Minnesota Vikings B-) supports the existing verdict and gives the winning side the cleaner value result.
Minnesota sent pick No. 137 to Atlanta for Nos. 146 and 185. The Vikings used No. 146 on Stefon Diggs, who became a star receiver and later brought back another major draft package. Atlanta selected Grady Jarrett at No. 137, landing a two-time Pro Bowl defensive tackle and long-term franchise cornerstone. When both sides turn fifth-round territory into elite players, neither deserves to be called the loser.
Minnesota moved from No. 76 to No. 80 in the 2015 third round and added pick No. 193, allowing Kansas City to select receiver Chris Conley. The Vikings then flipped No. 80 to Detroit for Nos. 88 and 143, selecting Danielle Hunter and MyCole Pruitt. Conley became a useful Chiefs receiver, but Hunter developed into a multiple-time Pro Bowler and elite pass rusher. The downstream move makes Minnesota the clear winner.
Minnesota moved from pick No. 80 to No. 88 and added pick No. 143 in a deal with Detroit. The Vikings selected Danielle Hunter and MyCole Pruitt, while the Lions used No. 80 on cornerback Alex Carter. Hunter became a multiple-Pro Bowl pass rusher and one of the youngest players in NFL history to reach 50 sacks. Carter barely played for Detroit. Minnesota turned a move down into a franchise-changing defender.
Minnesota sent Matt Cassel and a 2015 sixth-round pick to Buffalo for a 2015 fifth and a 2016 seventh. The key was what the Vikings did next: they flipped the fifth-rounder, No. 137, to Atlanta for Nos. 146 and 185, selecting Stefon Diggs and Tyrus Thompson. Cassel barely figured into Buffalo's season, while the pick chain helped Minnesota land a franchise-changing receiver.
Minnesota Vikings come out ahead in this trade. The final grade profile (Minnesota Vikings B-, Atlanta Falcons C) supports the existing verdict and gives the winning side the cleaner value result.
Carolina Panthers come out ahead in this trade. The final grade profile (Minnesota Vikings C, Carolina Panthers B-) supports the existing verdict and gives the winning side the cleaner value result.
Minnesota moved back into the first round for Teddy Bridgewater, sending Seattle picks No. 40 and No. 108. Bridgewater became the Vikings' starter, made the Pro Bowl after the 2015 season and helped produce an NFC North title before a catastrophic knee injury changed his trajectory. Seattle traded No. 40 again and collected additional selections while using No. 108 on Cassius Marsh. Both sides got useful value, with Minnesota's starting-quarterback payoff providing the stronger peak.
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.
Minnesota Vikings acquired 2013 6th round pick (196th overall, Jeff Baca) and 2013 7th round pick (229th overall, Everett Dawkins); 2013 6th round pick (196th overall; Jeff Baca); Draft-pick compensation details unavailable from source data from Tampa Bay Buccaneers for 2013 6th round pick (189th overall, Mike James); 2013 6th round pick (189th overall; Mike James). The overall result favors Tampa Bay Buccaneers over Minnesota Vikings.
Minnesota traded four selections to New England for pick No. 29 and selected Cordarrelle Patterson. Patterson became an elite return specialist immediately and earned multiple All-Pro honors, but he never developed into a consistent featured receiver during four Vikings seasons. New England used the premium picks on Jamie Collins and Logan Ryan, both major defensive contributors to championship teams, plus Josh Boyce and another late selection. The Patriots converted quantity into higher overall value.
Minnesota traded Percy Harvin to Seattle for a package that produced Xavier Rhodes, Jerick McKinnon, and additional draft value. Rhodes became an All-Pro cornerback and McKinnon supplied useful offensive production. Harvin's Seattle tenure was brief and injury-filled, but his Super Bowl kickoff-return touchdown gives the Seahawks more credit than the former C- grade.
Minnesota Vikings received A.J. Jefferson and 2013 7th round pick (213th overall, Michael Mauti). Arizona Cardinals received 2013 6th round pick (176th overall subsequently traded, David Quessenberry). The final review favors Minnesota Vikings because that return produced stronger long-term football value.
Minnesota Vikings acquired 2013 6th round pick (176th overall subsequently traded, David Quessenberry) from Tennessee Titans for 2012 5th round pick (163rd overall subsequently traded, Terrell Manning), 2012 7th round pick (211th overall, Scott Solomon) and 2012 7th round pick (224th overall subsequently traded, Alfonzo Dennard). The overall result favors Tennessee Titans over Minnesota Vikings.
Detroit turned a fifth- and seventh-round package into linebacker Tahir Whitehead and Travis Lewis, while Minnesota received Trevor Guyton plus a future fourth-rounder. Whitehead became the decisive piece, growing into a long-term Detroit starter and productive linebacker. Minnesota later used the future fourth as part of its 2013 move for Cordarrelle Patterson, which prevents this from being a lopsided loss, but Detroit realized the cleaner direct return.
Minnesota moved back into the first round for Harrison Smith, who became a long-term defensive leader and one of the best safeties in franchise history. Baltimore received Courtney Upshaw and Gino Gradkowski, two real contributors, including a starter on a championship defense. The Vikings won, but the Ravens' former D grade ignored meaningful return value.
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.
Minnesota acquired Donovan McNabb from Washington in 2011 for a 2012 sixth-round pick and a conditional 2013 sixth that was not ultimately conveyed. McNabb started only six games before rookie Christian Ponder replaced him, and Minnesota released him during the season. Washington used the conveyed pick on Alfred Morris, who rushed for 1,613 yards as a rookie and became a multi-year starter. The Commanders received vastly more 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.
Minnesota reunited Randy Moss with Brett Favre in a win-now move, sending New England a 2011 third-round pick while receiving Moss and a 2012 seventh-rounder. The reunion lasted only four games: Moss caught 13 passes for 174 yards and two touchdowns before the Vikings waived him. New England used pick No. 74 on Ryan Mallett and avoided losing Moss for nothing after the season. The Patriots clearly won despite modest production from Mallett.
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.
Minnesota sent Sage Rosenfels and Darius Reynaud to New York for a 2011 fifth-round pick plus a conditional 2012 choice that was not exercised. The Vikings later traded the fifth-rounder to Cleveland for two sixth-rounders, producing DeMarcus Love and Mistral Raymond; Raymond made 10 starts in Minnesota. Rosenfels served as Eli Manning’s backup and Reynaud handled returns briefly, so Minnesota’s draft return wins narrowly.
Miami and Minnesota swapped Benny Sapp for Greg Camarillo just before the 2010 season. Sapp played all 16 games for the Dolphins that year, recording 35 tackles, 10 passes defended and two interceptions. Camarillo gave Minnesota two seasons of receiving depth, catching 29 passes for 361 yards. Neither player became a long-term answer, and the useful short-term returns on both sides support an even grade.
Minnesota traded picks No. 62 and No. 93 to Houston for No. 51 and selected Toby Gerhart. Gerhart became a useful four-year backup behind Adrian Peterson, but Houston turned the acquired choices into a broader chain: No. 62 helped the Texans move up for Ben Tate, while No. 93 was traded for picks used on Darryl Sharpton and Sherrick McManis. Houston's deeper return wins narrowly.
Detroit moved into the first round for Jahvid Best, while Minnesota moved down and received the picks used on Chris Cook, Everson Griffen, and Mickey Shuler. Best flashed major talent before concussions ended his career. Griffen became a four-time Pro Bowler and one of the Vikings' leading pass rushers, giving Minnesota the stronger long-term outcome.
Minnesota Vikings
Minnesota moved up eight spots in the fifth round for linebacker Jasper Brinkley, sending Washington picks 158 and 221. Brinkley became a useful Vikings defender and eventual starting middle linebacker, appearing across six seasons in Minnesota. Washington selected Cody Glenn and Eddie Williams with the return, but neither produced comparable NFL value, leaving the Vikings with the clear advantage from a modest draft-day move.
Minnesota Vikings acquired Sage Rosenfels from Houston Texans for 2009 4th round pick (122nd overall, Anthony Hill). The overall result favors Houston Texans over Minnesota Vikings.
Minnesota Vikings acquired an undisclosed 2008 draft pick from Washington Commanders for Erasmus James. The available record does not show enough separation to call a clear long-term winner.
Minnesota Vikings acquired 2008 5th round pick (137th overall, John David Booty) from Green Bay Packers for 2008 5th round pick (150th overall, Breno Giacomini) and 2008 7th round pick (209th overall, Matt Flynn). The overall result favors Green Bay Packers over Minnesota Vikings.
Minnesota traded picks No. 47 and No. 117 to Philadelphia for Nos. 43 and 152, selecting safety Tyrell Johnson and defensive lineman Letroy Guion. Philadelphia drafted Trevor Laws and Quintin Demps. All four players reached the NFL, but Minnesota received the greater sustained starting value: Johnson started 27 games for the Vikings and Guion 31, while Laws and Demps were primarily rotational contributors during their Eagles tenures.
Minnesota paid a premium draft package for Jared Allen and received six seasons of elite edge production, including a near-record 22-sack campaign. Kansas City obtained substantial rebuilding capital and did not leave empty-handed, but the Vikings acquired the defining player and a franchise-level pass rusher during a competitive window.
Minnesota traded wide receiver Troy Williamson to Jacksonville for the 193rd pick in the 2008 draft and selected Jaymar Johnson. Williamson caught only eight passes for 64 yards and one touchdown across two Jaguars seasons. Johnson made the Vikings as a reserve after a practice-squad year but recorded only one NFL reception. Both teams took inexpensive chances on disappointing assets, and neither created meaningful long-term value.
Minnesota acquired veteran quarterback Kelly Holcomb from Philadelphia for a 2009 sixth-round pick, correcting older records that described the compensation as a 2007 selection. Holcomb made three starts for the Vikings in 2007 but was only a short-term bridge. Philadelphia later included pick No. 195 in the package used to move up for Jeremy Maclin, preserving more downstream value.
Minnesota sent the No. 106 and No. 182 picks to Tampa Bay for No. 102 and selected Brian Robison. Robison became a decade-long defensive-line contributor and finished with 60 sacks for the Vikings. Tampa Bay selected Tanard Jackson and Adam Hayward, two legitimate NFL players, making this a clear Minnesota win rather than a Buccaneers disaster.
Minnesota Vikings received 2007 6th round pick (176th overall, Rufus Alexander), 2007 7th round pick (233rd overall, Chandler Williams) and 2008 3rd round pick (73rd overall subsequently traded, Jamaal Charles). Denver Broncos received 2007 4th round pick (121st overall, Marcus Thomas). The final review favors Minnesota Vikings because that return produced stronger practical football value.
Minnesota moved up three spots in the 2007 second round and selected wide receiver Sidney Rice at No. 44, sending Atlanta Nos. 41 and 121. Rice developed into Brett Favre's top deep threat during the Vikings' 2009 NFC Championship run, posting 1,312 yards and eight touchdowns that season. Atlanta used No. 41 on cornerback Chris Houston, whose uneven three-year Falcons tenure left Minnesota with the stronger payoff.
Minnesota Vikings acquired 2008 7th round pick from Los Angeles Rams for Adam Goldberg. The overall result favors Los Angeles Rams over Minnesota Vikings.
Minnesota acquired quarterback Brooks Bollinger from the Jets for defensive tackle C.J. Mosley and a 2008 seventh-round pick. Bollinger provided emergency quarterback depth but made only a limited impact during two Vikings seasons. New York received a young defensive lineman who contributed in its rotation plus an extra draft asset, giving the Jets a modest but clear advantage.
Minnesota traded undrafted rookie Hank Baskett to Philadelphia for veteran Billy McMullen, reuniting McMullen with former Eagles coordinator Brad Childress. McMullen gave the Vikings one modest season, while Baskett became a useful Eagles role receiver for several years and topped 1,000 receiving yards for Philadelphia across his tenure. The Eagles clearly created more lasting value from the receiver swap.
Minnesota sent picks 115 and 185 to Philadelphia for guard Artis Hicks and pick 127, which became defensive end Ray Edwards. The Eagles immediately moved the two incoming selections to Green Bay for pick 109, used on Jason Avant. Both organizations extracted real value, but Minnesota received two useful players directly, including the best defensive player in the chain, while Philadelphia's downstream conversion keeps this from being a lopsided result.
Minnesota traded two third-round selections, Nos. 83 and 95, to Pittsburgh for No. 64 and drafted quarterback Tarvaris Jackson. Jackson never became a long-term franchise starter, but he started 20 games for the Vikings, helped them reach the 2008 playoffs and remained in the NFL for a decade. Pittsburgh selected safety Anthony Smith and receiver Willie Reid; neither became a lasting Steelers starter, leaving Minnesota with the better return.
Miami acquired Daunte Culpepper from Minnesota for the 51st pick in the 2006 draft while Culpepper was still recovering from a devastating knee injury. He started only four games for the Dolphins, throwing two touchdowns and three interceptions before the experiment ended. Minnesota used No. 51 on Ryan Cook, who became a versatile offensive lineman and made 40 career starts, giving the Vikings useful value while Miami absorbed one of the era's most costly quarterback misses.
Los Angeles Chargers received undisclosed 2006 draft pick. Minnesota Vikings received Tonio Fonoti. The final review favors Los Angeles Chargers because that return produced stronger practical football value.
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.
Minnesota Vikings acquired 2005 4th round pick (112th overall, Ciatrick Fason) from Washington Commanders for 2005 4th round pick (120th overall, Manuel White) and 2005 5th round pick (154th overall, Robert McCune). The overall result favors Washington Redskins/Commanders over Minnesota Vikings.
New York Jets received 2005 7th round pick (230th overall subsequently traded, Matt Cassel). Minnesota Vikings received Sam Cowart. The final review favors New York Jets because that return produced stronger practical football value.
Minnesota traded Randy Moss to Oakland for Napoleon Harris, the first-round pick used on Troy Williamson, and a seventh-round pick. The Vikings failed to convert the package into lasting value. Oakland acquired the only elite player, but Moss's two seasons there were disappointing, so the Raiders won without earning an A-level outcome.
Minnesota Vikings acquired 2004 1st round pick (20th overall, Kenechi Udeze) and 2004 4th round pick (119th overall, Mewelde Moore) from Miami Dolphins for 2004 1st round pick (19th overall, Vernon Carey). The overall result favors Vikings over Minnesota Vikings.
Minnesota Vikings acquired 2004 3rd round pick (88th overall, Darrion Scott) and 2004 5th round pick (155th overall, Rod Davis) from Baltimore Ravens for 2004 3rd round pick (82nd overall, Devard Darling). Minnesota Vikings received the stronger recorded football value, matching the Minnesota Vikings Win verdict.
Minnesota moved up two spots in the 2004 second round for linebacker Dontarrious Thomas, sending New Orleans picks 50 and 151 for No. 48. Thomas became a useful multi-year Viking, but the Saints selected Devery Henderson at 50 and later used pick 151 in another trade that helped add 2005 second-round capital. Henderson’s long tenure and championship-era production give New Orleans the stronger return.
New Orleans acquired quarterback Todd Bouman from Minnesota in March 2003 for a sixth-round pick. Minnesota used the 190th overall selection on linebacker Mike Nattiel, while Bouman served as veteran quarterback depth for the Saints. Neither side landed a long-term centerpiece, but the Vikings turned a reserve passer into a draft choice that became a roster contributor, giving Minnesota the modest edge in the deal.
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 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.
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.
Minnesota Vikings acquired 2001 3rd round pick (69th overall, Eric Kelly) from New England Patriots for 2001 3rd round pick (86th overall, Brock Williams) and 2001 4th round pick (119th overall, Jabari Holloway). The overall result favors New England Patriots over Minnesota Vikings.
Minnesota Vikings
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.
Minnesota Vikings received 1999 6th round pick (185th overall, Talance Sawyer). Baltimore Ravens received Everett Lindsay. The final review favors Minnesota Vikings because that return produced stronger practical football value.
Minnesota moved up from No. 59 to No. 44 in the 1999 draft to select tight end/fullback Jim Kleinsasser, sending Pittsburgh the 59th, 73rd and 163rd selections. Kleinsasser became a durable 13-year Viking and appeared in 181 games, but Pittsburgh used No. 73 on linebacker Joey Porter, whose peak as an All-Pro pass rusher gives the Steelers the stronger return.
Minnesota traded Brad Johnson to Washington for the 11th and 73rd picks in the 1999 draft. The Vikings used No. 11 on Daunte Culpepper, who became a three-time Pro Bowl quarterback and threw for more than 24,000 career yards. Washington received a capable veteran who helped the 1999 team reach the playoffs, but Minnesota landed a younger franchise quarterback plus another premium asset.
Minnesota sent New England a 1999 third-round pick for cornerback Jimmy Hitchcock before the 1998 season. Hitchcock then started all 16 games for the 15-1 Vikings, intercepted seven passes and returned three for touchdowns. New England used the eventual No. 91 pick on Tony George, who played 31 NFL games with one start. Minnesota received far more immediate impact from the exchange.
Minnesota Vikings acquired 1996 4th round pick (97th overall, Hunter Goodwin) from Arizona/St. Louis Cardinals for 1996 4th round pick (112th overall, Aaron Graham) and 1996 5th round pick (137th overall, James Dexter). Arizona received the broader pick package, giving the Cardinals the slight value edge over Minnesota's move up for Hunter Goodwin.
Minnesota Vikings acquired 1995 6th round pick (189th overall, John Solomon) and 1996 5th round pick (137th overall subsequently traded, James Dexter) from New York Giants for Vencie Glenn and 1996 6th round pick (182nd overall, Scott Galyon). The overall result favors New York Giants over Minnesota Vikings.
Minnesota moved up ten spots in the fourth round of the 1995 draft for quarterback Chad May, sending Denver picks 121 and 196. May never appeared in an NFL regular-season game. Denver used No. 196 on Terrell Davis, who became a league MVP, Super Bowl MVP, two-time champion and Hall of Fame running back. The Broncos also received the 121st pick. Few draft trades have produced a wider gap between the player targeted and the player surrendered.
New York Giants acquired Vencie Glenn and 1996 6th round pick (182nd overall, Scott Galyon) from Minnesota Vikings for 1995 6th round pick (189th overall, John Solomon) and 1996 5th round pick (137th overall subsequently traded, James Dexter). The available record does not show enough separation to call a clear long-term winner.
Atlanta Falcons and Minnesota Vikings completed this exchange on 1994-04-24. Minnesota sent Chris Doleman and the 45th pick to Atlanta for the 40th pick and Atlanta's 1995 first-rounder. Minnesota's return was respectable: Alexander became a multi-year starter and Palmer contributed as a receiver and returner. 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.
Minnesota Vikings acquired 1994 2nd round pick (55th overall, Fernando Smith) and 1994 4th round pick (125th overall, Mike Wells) from Las Vegas Raiders for 1994 2nd round pick (52nd overall, James Folston). The overall result favors Vikings over Minnesota Vikings.
Minnesota acquired Warren Moon for fourth- and third-round picks and received two Pro Bowl seasons from the Hall of Fame quarterback. Moon immediately raised the passing game's ceiling and helped the Vikings reach the playoffs. Houston gained modest draft value while beginning a transition, but Minnesota received the defining performance.
Minnesota acquired tight end Adrian Cooper from Pittsburgh for third- and sixth-round picks in 1994. Cooper contributed for one season, but Pittsburgh used the third-rounder on Jason Gildon, who became a three-time Pro Bowler, first-team All-Pro and one of the most prolific pass rushers in Steelers history. That long-term defensive return gives Pittsburgh a decisive edge.
Kansas City Chiefs and Minnesota Vikings completed this exchange on 1993-08-30. Word immediately became part of Minnesota's backfield, playing 13 games with eight starts and rushing for 458 yards and two touchdowns. The Vikings did not acquire a long-term star, but they received exactly the kind of emergency production they needed after Allen's injury. Following the acquired picks only through moves actually made by the receiving clubs, the overall result is Minnesota Vikings Win.
Minnesota Vikings and Denver Broncos completed this exchange on 1993-08-23. Zimmerman immediately started for Denver and remained a cornerstone through the club's rise to consecutive Super Bowl championships, earning further Pro Bowl and All-Pro recognition. Minnesota's return was excellent and would win many trades: Washington and Thomas gave the Vikings years of starting secondary play. Following the acquired picks only through moves actually made by the receiving clubs, the overall result is Denver Broncos Win.
Washington acquired Rich Gannon from Minnesota in August 1993 for conditional draft compensation that ultimately included the 1994 fifth-round pick used on Shelly Hammonds. Gannon started only four games for Washington and missed the following season with a shoulder injury. Minnesota's pick produced little, so Washington still won the immediate exchange, although Gannon's later MVP years came elsewhere and should not inflate this return.
Minnesota acquired running back Keith Henderson from San Francisco on September 16, 1992, for a 1993 eighth-round pick. Henderson's NFL career effectively ended that season, limiting the Vikings' return. The 49ers used pick No. 219 on quarterback Elvis Grbac, who became a useful backup behind Steve Young and made starts for San Francisco. That direct quarterback depth gives the 49ers a clear win.
Washington received 1993 sixth round pick (#160-Frank Wycheck) from Minnesota Vikings for George Hinkle and Joe Johnson (Pernell). The recorded outcome favors Minnesota Vikings.
Minnesota sent former Defensive Player of the Year Keith Millard to Seattle and received the 39th pick in 1992 plus a 1993 third-rounder. The Vikings used those selections on Robert Harris and John Gerak. Millard appeared in only two games for Seattle, while Minnesota converted the return into two players who supplied multiple seasons of roster value.
Minnesota acquired Tampa Bay's 1992 ninth-round pick for defensive back Jimmy Williams and used No. 227 on quarterback Brad Johnson. Williams gave the Buccaneers useful short-term defensive work, but Johnson became a significant Vikings quarterback and later remained a valuable NFL asset. Minnesota's direct years of starting quarterback play from such a low-cost selection make this a decisive Vikings win.
Minnesota Vikings acquired 1991 sixth round pick (#163-Todd Scott); 1991 seventh round pick (#180-Tripp Welborne) from Las Vegas Raiders for 1991 sixth round pick (#146-Nolan Harrison). The available record does not show enough separation to call a clear long-term winner.
Minnesota Vikings
The Herschel Walker trade became the NFL's most famous franchise-altering deal. Minnesota acquired the star running back, but Dallas turned the return into the foundation of a dynasty. The Vikings chased immediate contention. The Cowboys collected the assets that helped reshape their future, making this the benchmark for every blockbuster trade that followed. The deal remains the gold standard for a franchise-altering trade win.
Oakland/Las Vegas Raiders received 1990 eleventh round pick (#298-Roman Matusz) from Minnesota Vikings for 1989 twelfth round pick (#335-Everett Ross). The recorded outcome favors Oakland/Las Vegas Raiders.
Minnesota exchanged the 24th pick in the 1989 draft for linebacker Mike Merriweather after the three-time Pro Bowler had sat out the entire 1988 season in Pittsburgh. The gamble worked: Merriweather immediately returned to the field, started every game he played during four seasons with the Vikings, and supplied far more sustained value than the late first-round pick Minnesota surrendered.
Minnesota Vikings acquired 1988 eleventh round pick (#296-Norman Floyd) from New England/Boston Patriots for 1989 ninth round pick (#247-Curtis Wilson). The final grade stays even because neither side created a clear long-term value gap from the recorded return.
Minnesota traded the No. 45 pick in the 1988 draft to Denver for picks No. 54, No. 108 and No. 164. The Vikings selected Brad Edwards, Todd Kalis and Derrick White, with Kalis developing into a long-term Minnesota offensive lineman. Denver used No. 45 on tackle Gerald Perry, who also became a contributor, but Minnesota's three-player return created the broader franchise value.
Minnesota acquired veteran guard Greg Koch from Miami on October 20, 1987, for sixth- and tenth-round selections in the next two drafts. Koch immediately started six games for a Vikings team that reached the NFC Championship Game. Miami used the picks on George Cooper and Greg Ross, neither of whom produced a regular-season NFL career. Minnesota received timely line help at a very small cost and won the exchange.
Minnesota Vikings acquired Chris Foote; undisclosed consideration from New York Giants for 1988 conditional pick (possibly #323-Brendan McCormack); undisclosed consideration. The available record does not show enough separation to call a clear long-term winner.
Minnesota acquired New England's rights to Rich Gannon shortly after the 1987 draft and ultimately sent fourth- and eleventh-round choices in 1988. Gannon spent six seasons with the Vikings and became a multi-year starter, giving Minnesota useful quarterback value long before his later MVP peak elsewhere. That production outweighs the modest return New England realized from the two selections.
Miami moved down two spots in the first round of the 1987 draft, sending No. 14 to Minnesota for No. 16 and a fifth-round choice. The Dolphins turned those picks into defensive end John Bosa and receiver Kitrick Taylor. Bosa supplied 7 sacks in 31 NFL games, while Taylor had a modest pro career, leaving Miami with useful but limited value from the extra capital.
Minnesota acquired veteran safety Steve Freeman from Buffalo on March 11, 1987 for past considerations whose details were not identified in the surviving transaction record. Freeman appeared in 12 games for the Vikings that season and recorded 12 combined tackles, providing short-term veteran depth. Because Buffalo's consideration is not quantified, the modest known return supports a cautious Even Trade rather than a forced winner.
Minnesota acquired veteran safety John Harris from Seattle on September 2, 1986 for a 1987 seventh-round pick that became No. 184, Roland Barbay. Harris immediately became a Vikings starter and intercepted nine passes over his three Minnesota seasons while making 37 starts. Converting a late-round choice into that much secondary experience and production gave Minnesota the stronger side of the trade.
Minnesota traded wide receiver Mike Jones to New Orleans on September 2, 1986 for running back Wayne Wilson. Wilson had been productive earlier in his career, but his Minnesota stay produced only eight carries for 14 yards in seven games. The Vikings gained veteran depth, yet the return was brief and modest, leaving Minnesota with little direct football value from the exchange.
San Diego moved from No. 14 to No. 8 in the 1986 draft and selected Leslie O'Neal, while also receiving No. 66. O'Neal became the defining asset: 132.5 career sacks and Defensive Rookie of the Year honors. Minnesota took Gerald Robinson at No. 14 and obtained No. 44, later used in the trade for Gary Zimmerman's rights, giving the Vikings meaningful value despite losing the direct comparison.
New York Giants received 1986 second round pick (#44-Mark Collins) and undisclosed consideration from Minnesota Vikings for rights to Gary Zimmerman and undisclosed consideration. The recorded outcome favors Minnesota Vikings.
Minnesota acquired Miami's NFL rights to Anthony Carter in August 1985, sending linebacker Robin Sendlein and a 1986 second-round pick that later became Kevin Murphy after further movement. Carter immediately became a premier Vikings receiver and stayed through 1993, producing 7,635 receiving yards for Minnesota. That sustained star-level return makes this a decisive Vikings victory.
Minnesota acquired Chuck Muncie from San Diego on July 19, 1985 for one conditional 1986 sixth-round pick tied to Muncie remaining with the Vikings through the season. Muncie retired before playing a regular-season game for Minnesota, so the condition was not met and the pick was not exercised. Neither team ultimately received a realized football asset from the transaction.
Minnesota traded the second pick in the 1985 draft to Atlanta for selections No. 4 and No. 60. The Falcons used No. 2 on elite guard Bill Fralic, while the Vikings selected Chris Doleman at No. 4 and Tim Meamber at No. 60. Fralic became an outstanding lineman, but Doleman's Hall of Fame pass-rushing career gives Minnesota the slight edge in a trade that benefited both teams.
Minnesota Vikings received 1985 second round pick (#30-Issiac Holt) from Houston Oilers/Tennessee Titans for Vikings agreed to not draft Ray Childress with the 1985 #2 overall pick or to trade the pick to a team that would draft Childress with that pick. The recorded outcome favors Minnesota Vikings.
Minnesota acquired Houston’s No. 2 overall pick on April 9, 1985 for the Vikings’ No. 3 and No. 30 selections. The Vikings later moved No. 2 to Atlanta and came away with No. 4 Chris Doleman plus No. 60 Tim Meamber. That chain gave Minnesota a Hall of Fame pass rusher, making the acquired No. 2 choice enormously valuable even though Minnesota did not make the selection itself.
Minnesota sent veteran linebacker Brad Van Pelt to the Raiders on October 9, 1984 and received a 1985 sixth-round pick plus a 1986 second-round pick. Van Pelt gave Los Angeles two useful seasons, but Minnesota drafted Tim Newton with the sixth and later used the second-round asset in the Gary Zimmerman rights deal, creating the stronger long-term return.
Minnesota Vikings received 1985 fourth round pick (#106-Kyle Morrell) from Los Angeles Rams for Steve Dils. The recorded outcome favors Minnesota Vikings.
Los Angeles/San Diego Chargers received John Turner from Minnesota Vikings for 1985 third round pick (#66-Tim Long) (Billy Shields contingency conversion). The recorded outcome favors Minnesota Vikings.
Minnesota acquired Hall of Fame kicker Jan Stenerud from Green Bay on July 17, 1984 for a 1985 seventh-round pick. Stenerud immediately made 20 of 23 field-goal attempts in 1984 and handled the Vikings’ kicking job for two seasons. Green Bay used the seventh-round selection on Eric Wilson, who did not create comparable NFL value. Minnesota received the more useful realized return.
Minnesota Vikings acquired Brad Van Pelt; undisclosed consideration from New York Giants for Tony Galbreath; undisclosed consideration. The available record does not show enough separation to call a clear long-term winner.
Minnesota Vikings received Jerry Baker from Denver Broncos for undisclosed draft pick. The recorded outcome does not show enough separation to identify a clear winner.
Minnesota Vikings received 1984 fifth round pick (#140-Allen Rice), 1984 seventh round pick (#196-Lloyd Lewis), and 1984 eleventh round pick (#308-Lawrence Thompson) from Oakland/Las Vegas Raiders for 1984 fifth round pick (#127-Andy Parker). The recorded outcome does not show enough separation to identify a clear winner.
Minnesota traded Hall of Fame tackle Ron Yary to the Rams late in the 1982 preseason for a 1983 tenth-round pick. The name makes the deal look larger than the actual Rams return: Yary appeared in only eight games for Los Angeles and did not start. Minnesota used No. 255 on defensive back Melvin Brown, who did not produce meaningful NFL value. The Rams win, but only narrowly and at a low grade.
Minnesota traded its 1983 second-round pick to Philadelphia for defensive tackle Charlie Johnson in August 1982. Johnson became an immediate Vikings starter, making 38 starts across three seasons and recording six sacks in the portion of his career with modern sack data. Philadelphia used No. 46 on linebacker Jody Schulz, who played 44 games for the Eagles but had a much smaller defensive role. Minnesota received the stronger team-specific value.
Los Angeles/San Diego Chargers received Jeff Siemon from Minnesota Vikings for 1983 sixth round pick or undisclosed pick (details not identified). The recorded outcome does not show enough separation to identify a clear winner.
Minnesota acquired Tony Galbreath from New Orleans on August 31, 1981 for the 1982 third-round pick that became Eugene Goodlow. Galbreath gave the Vikings three useful seasons, totaling 788 rushing yards and 645 receiving yards while starting 11 games. Goodlow later became a productive Saints receiver with 1,677 yards and 10 touchdowns. Both teams turned the exchange into legitimate multi-year production.
Minnesota traded the 18th pick in the 1981 draft to Baltimore for two second-rounders and a fifth-rounder, selecting Mardye McDole, Jarvis Redwine, and Wendell Ray. The quantity did not translate into comparable NFL value. Baltimore used No. 18 on Donnell Thompson, who became an 11-year Colt, started 143 games, and provided the durable return that decides the trade.
Miami traded Hall of Fame center Jim Langer to Minnesota on September 24, 1980 for 1981 and 1982 draft picks that became Fulton Walker and Bob Nelson. Walker developed into an excellent Dolphins return specialist and later scored a 98-yard kickoff-return touchdown in Super Bowl XVII. Nelson did not stick in Miami, but Walker's value gives the Dolphins a respectable return despite surrendering a legendary veteran.
Minnesota acquired offensive lineman Nick Bebout from Seattle on September 1, 1980 for a 1981 ninth-round pick, correctly identified as No. 236, which Seattle used on Jim Whatley. Bebout appeared in only one game for the Vikings before being released later that month, while Whatley did not develop into a meaningful NFL contributor. With almost no durable return on either side, the corrected transaction belongs in the Even category with low C-range grades.
The June 1980 Steve Riley entry reflects the resolution of an earlier Vikings-Saints transaction after Riley failed New Orleans' physical and remained with Minnesota. The Saints ultimately received 1981 third- and fifth-round selections, Nos. 71 and 128, while Minnesota retained Riley, who continued as a regular offensive tackle for several seasons. Both sides obtained real value, but the two future selections give New Orleans the stronger return and preserve a narrow Saints win.
Minnesota agreed to send tackle Steve Riley to New Orleans on April 18, 1980 for third- and fifth-round picks used on Brent Boyd and Paul Jones. Riley later failed the Saints' physical, and the transaction was unwound with Minnesota sending 1981 third- and fifth-round selections to New Orleans while retaining Riley. Boyd became a useful Vikings lineman, and Riley continued starting in Minnesota, giving the Vikings the stronger overall chain.
Minnesota sent veteran running back Chuck Foreman to New England in April 1980 for a conditional 1981 third-round pick. The condition produced No. 74, which the Vikings used on tackle Tim Irwin. Irwin became a 14-year NFL lineman and longtime Minnesota starter, giving the Vikings exceptional lasting value from a player whose Patriots tenure was near the end of his career.
Minnesota moved up nine spots in the second round of the 1980 draft to select defensive back Willie Teal, sending San Francisco picks No. 39 and 65. Teal became a productive Vikings starter and intercepted 15 passes in his NFL career. The 49ers used No. 39 on Keena Turner, an 11-year cornerstone and four-time Super Bowl champion, making San Francisco’s return clearly superior.
Minnesota Vikings
Minnesota acquired defensive lineman Steve Niehaus. His Vikings tenure was brief: he appeared in three games in 1979 and made no starts. That limited the direct value Minnesota received from the deal. The longer view produces a C grade for Minnesota Vikings. Seattle receives a B and Minnesota a C.
Minnesota Vikings received Jerry Latin from Los Angeles Rams for undisclosed draft pick (round and selection not identified). Because the available record does not fully identify the consideration, the existing Even Trade verdict remains the most defensible treatment.
Minnesota Vikings received draft pick or future considerations (details not identified) from New England Patriots for Neil Clabo. Because the available record does not fully identify the consideration, the existing Even Trade verdict remains the most defensible treatment.
Minnesota Vikings acquired Frank Myers from Indianapolis Colts for 1979 eighth round pick (#207-Nesby Glasgow). The available record does not show enough separation to call a clear long-term winner.
San Diego acquired veteran guard Ed White for Rickey Young and received an exceptional long-term starter for the Air Coryell era. White remained a fixture on the Chargers’ offensive line for eight seasons and earned Pro Bowl recognition. The Chargers get the slight edge, but Minnesota’s return was far stronger than a losing-side grade normally suggests.
Minnesota received Bob Tucker and undisclosed consideration for a fifth-round pick used on Jim Krahl plus undisclosed consideration. Tucker became a multi-year starter and supplied the only substantial realized return, giving the Vikings the advantage.
Seattle sent Minnesota the 1978 eighth-round pick used on Mike Wood and received safety Autry Beamon plus linebacker Amos Martin. Beamon immediately became the prize, appearing in 45 Seahawks games with 39 starts and 11 interceptions from 1977 through 1979. Wood gave Minnesota limited direct value, so Seattle's three-year defensive return clearly wins the exchange.
Minnesota acquired safety Phil Wise from the Jets for two future selections, a 1978 eighth-round pick and a 1979 tenth-round pick. Wise played 30 games for the Vikings and started all 16 games in 1978. The Jets used the picks on Roy Eppes and Ed McGlasson; Eppes never played in the NFL and McGlasson appeared in only seven Jets games. Minnesota received the stronger return.
Minnesota acquired veteran safety Bill Bradley from Philadelphia for the 1978 seventh-round pick used on Greg Marshall. Bradley did not become a lasting Vikings contributor and finished 1977 with St. Louis, appearing in four games. Marshall, meanwhile, was drafted No. 186 by Philadelphia but played only two NFL games, both for Baltimore. Neither acquiring club realized meaningful direct value.
Minnesota acquired defensive back Joe Blahak from New England for cash. Blahak appeared in 12 games for the Vikings in 1977, creating a small but documented Minnesota advantage.
Minnesota acquired running back Sammy Johnson from San Francisco for wide receiver Jim Lash during the 1976 season. Johnson stayed with the Vikings longer than Lash remained with the 49ers, but his offensive production was modest. Minnesota gained useful depth without finding a major difference-maker, leaving the exchange close to balanced.
Minnesota acquired Ahmad Rashad from Seattle for a 1977 fourth-round pick and found an ideal long-term receiving partner for Fran Tarkenton and the Vikings offense. Rashad spent seven seasons in Minnesota, caught 400 passes for 5,489 yards and earned four consecutive Pro Bowl selections, making the modest acquisition cost an extraordinary bargain.
Minnesota acquired defensive backs Windlan Hall and Nate Allen from San Francisco for offensive lineman Steve Lawson and a 1978 sixth-round choice. Allen immediately started 11 games and intercepted three passes for the Vikings in 1976. That useful secondary return gave Minnesota real value without producing a decisive advantage.
Cincinnati sent Minnesota the rights to Orlando Nelson for a 1977 seventh-round choice. The Bengals used the pick at No. 194 on tight end Jim Corbett, who went on to appear in 44 NFL games and catch 25 passes. That was modest production, but it was still a concrete return from a low-cost transaction and gives Cincinnati the edge.
Minnesota Vikings received Doug Dumler from New England Patriots for 1976 eighth round pick (#235-Stu Betts) and 1977 sixth round pick (#166) [later traded to Detroit Lions for Marlin Briscoe]. The recorded outcome favors New England Patriots.
New Orleans Saints received Bob Stein from Minnesota Vikings for 1977 draft pick (selection not identified) and 1977 undisclosed pick. The recorded outcome does not show enough separation to identify a clear winner.
Atlanta acquired veteran running back Oscar Reed from Minnesota for a 1976 fifth-round choice. Reed played only seven games for the Falcons, rushing 14 times for 40 yards. Minnesota used the pick on defensive back Steve Wagner but released him before the 1976 season; his later 61-game NFL career came with Green Bay and Philadelphia. Neither club realized lasting value.
Minnesota Vikings received Dave Hazel from Indianapolis/Baltimore Colts for 1976 eighth round pick (selection not identified). The recorded outcome does not show enough separation to identify a clear winner.
Minnesota acquired offensive lineman Andy Maurer and received useful immediate line help. New Orleans received the 1975 third-round pick used on defensive end Elois Grooms, who played 99 games for the Saints and recorded 42.5 sacks for the franchise. Maurer made the Vikings' side respectable, but Grooms became a far more durable and productive asset in New Orleans. The third-round pick produced the best player value in the exchange.
Detroit acquired Charlie West from Minnesota on September 10, 1974, for a 1975 third-round selection that ultimately became No. 63. West became a regular Lions starter through 1977. Minnesota later traded the No. 63 choice to New Orleans for Andy Maurer, so Elois Grooms' selection belongs to the Saints' later use of the pick rather than directly to the Vikings.
Minnesota acquired linebacker Ron Porter from Philadelphia for the 1974 fifth-round choice that became pick No. 128. Porter appeared in 13 games for the Vikings in 1973 but did not become a long-term starter. Philadelphia moved the pick onward before Monroe Eley was selected, leaving neither club with enough direct, lasting value to claim a meaningful win.
Minnesota sent Clint Jones and Carl Gersbach to San Diego for 1974 second- and third-round selections. The Vikings used those picks on John Holland and Steve Craig, giving Minnesota two meaningful draft assets for veterans whose Chargers impact was limited. Neither drafted player became a star, but the two-pick return still gives the Vikings a clear, moderate advantage.
Minnesota Vikings received Ken Best / Keith Best from Kansas City Chiefs for draft pick (selection not identified). The recorded outcome does not show enough separation to identify a clear winner.
Minnesota Vikings received 1974 fifth round pick (#128-Monroe Eley) from Los Angeles Rams for Charles Stukes / Charlie Stukes. The recorded outcome does not show enough separation to identify a clear winner.
Denver acquired wide receiver Gene Washington from Minnesota for Rod Sherman and the 1974 fifth-round pick used on Jim Ferguson. Washington played all 14 games for Denver in 1973 and scored three receiving touchdowns. Sherman did not play a regular-season game for Minnesota, and Ferguson never appeared in the NFL, giving the Broncos the better direct return.
Minnesota acquired guard Steve Lawson plus Cincinnati's 1975 fourth-round pick, while the Bengals received Minnesota's 1974 fourth- and 1975 third-round choices. Lawson became a multi-year Vikings lineman, but Cincinnati converted its picks into Richard Williams and linebacker Bo Harris. Both sides gained usable value, with the Bengals' two-pick return giving Cincinnati the narrow overall edge.
Los Angeles Rams received Greg Slough from Minnesota Vikings for draft pick (selection not identified). The recorded outcome favors Los Angeles Rams.
Minnesota Vikings received Greg Slough from Oakland/Las Vegas Raiders for draft pick (selection not identified). The recorded outcome does not show enough separation to identify a clear winner.
Minnesota Vikings received Charles Stukes / Charlie Stukes from Indianapolis/Baltimore Colts for 1974 fifth round pick (#129-Doug Nettles). The recorded outcome does not show enough separation to identify a clear winner.
New Orleans Saints received Bob Brown (Earl) from Minnesota Vikings for 1973 sixth round pick (#139-Doug Kingsriter) and 1974 fourth round pick (#86-Mike Townsend). The recorded outcome favors New Orleans Saints.
Minnesota Vikings received Sam Walton from Houston Oilers/Tennessee Titans for 1973 draft pick (selection not identified). The recorded outcome does not show enough separation to identify a clear winner.
Minnesota acquired punter Mike Eischeid from Kansas City on May 25, 1972 for a 1973 fourth-round choice. Eischeid handled the Vikings’ punting for three full seasons, including their 1973 and 1974 playoff runs. Kansas City used pick No. 89 on John Lohmeyer, who played five Chiefs seasons and served three years as a special-teams captain. Both teams received durable, useful value, supporting an even result.
Minnesota sent quarterback Gary Cuozzo to St. Louis in 1972 for John Gilliam plus 1973 second- and fourth-round choices. Gilliam immediately produced four strong Vikings seasons, the second-rounder became Jackie Wallace, and Minnesota later used the fourth-round asset to obtain punter Mike Eischeid. Cuozzo struggled in his lone Cardinals season. The volume and quality of Minnesota’s return make this a decisive Vikings win.
Minnesota sent linebacker Bill Cody to Philadelphia on March 4, 1972 for the Eagles’ 1973 tenth-round choice. Cody appeared in 11 games for Philadelphia that season. Minnesota used pick No. 236 on Tulane defensive back and punter Randy Lee, whose draft record shows no NFL regular-season production. The Eagles therefore receive a narrow edge from a modest exchange that produced limited value overall.
Minnesota reacquired Fran Tarkenton from the Giants for Norm Snead, Bob Grim, Vince Clements, a 1972 first-round pick, and a 1973 second-round pick that became Brad Van Pelt. New York received a real package, including a future five-time Pro Bowler. But Tarkenton stabilized Minnesota's offense and became the quarterback of the Vikings' Super Bowl-window years. That timing controlled the verdict.
Minnesota acquired tight end Bob Brown and cornerback Nate Wright from St. Louis for Mike McGill, Dale Hackbart and a future fourth-round choice. Wright became the decisive asset: he developed into a durable starter for Minnesota’s championship-era defenses, while Brown supplied short-term depth. The Cardinals received only modest playing value from McGill and Hackbart, leaving Minnesota with the stronger realized return.
Minnesota sent quarterback Bill Cappleman to Philadelphia for a 1973 fourth-round pick that became No. 80 overall and Mike Wells. The Eagles did not receive meaningful regular-season production from Cappleman, while Wells likewise failed to develop into a significant Vikings contributor. Minnesota obtained a useful draft chance, but the realized on-field return remained minimal on both sides, making an even C/C result more appropriate than strong grades.
Minnesota acquired defensive lineman Doug Sutherland from New Orleans for running back Bill Harris in August 1971. The transaction involved one Harris, not two duplicate player entries. Sutherland went on to play 138 regular-season games for Minnesota, start 90 and appear in three Super Bowls. Harris played only one game for New Orleans and gained one rushing yard, producing an overwhelming Vikings advantage.
Arizona Cardinals received Jim Hargrove from Minnesota Vikings for Mike LaHood. The recorded outcome does not show enough separation to identify a clear winner.
Los Angeles/San Diego Chargers received Bill Sabatino from Minnesota Vikings for draft pick (selection not identified). The recorded outcome does not show enough separation to identify a clear winner.
Minnesota acquired receiver Al Denson from Denver for defensive back John Charles and a 1972 fourth-round pick that became No. 102 and linebacker Tom Graham. Denson's Vikings stay was brief, while Graham developed into a multi-season Denver starter after arriving through the exchanged pick. With Charles also included in the package, the Broncos turned one veteran into substantially more lasting value and win the deal.
On 1971-03-26, Minnesota Vikings and New Orleans Saints completed a deal that sent Bill Cody to Minnesota Vikings and undisclosed conditional future draft choice to New Orleans Saints. Cody did not become a meaningful Vikings regular-season contributor before moving on. Because the Saints' conditional return cannot be tied confidently to a productive selection, neither side produced enough verified value for a win. That realized value supports a Even Trade verdict, with Minnesota Vikings graded C and New Orleans Saints graded C.
Minnesota Vikings received 1972 third round pick (#59-Bart Buetow) from Green Bay Packers for rights to Zeke Bratkowski. The recorded outcome favors Minnesota Vikings.
Minnesota acquired veteran quarterback Norm Snead from Philadelphia for tackle Steve Smith and three draft choices: a 1971 second, 1971 sixth and 1972 third. Snead started only two games for the Vikings before becoming part of the package that brought Fran Tarkenton back to Minnesota. Philadelphia received several years of Smith plus multiple selections, giving the Eagles the stronger direct return despite Minnesota later recycling Snead productively.
Minnesota Vikings received Ted Provost from Los Angeles Rams for 1972 fifth round pick (#128-Greg Kucera). The recorded outcome does not show enough separation to identify a clear winner.
Minnesota acquired quarterback Kent Nix from Pittsburgh on September 2, 1970 for the 1971 fifth-round pick that became Fred Brister at No. 128. Nix did not appear in a regular-season game for the Vikings and was released before joining Chicago. Brister was selected by Pittsburgh but never appeared in an NFL regular-season game. Since neither incoming asset produced on-field value for the acquiring club, the trade finishes even.
Minnesota acquired veteran cornerback Dick Westmoreland from Miami in May 1970 for guard Bookie Bolin. Westmoreland had been a productive Dolphins defender, but Minnesota released him before the regular season. Bolin’s NFL career had effectively ended after the 1969 season, so Miami also received no on-field return. With neither incoming player producing regular-season value for his new club, the exchange finishes essentially even.
Minnesota Vikings
St. Louis acquired veteran King Hill from Minnesota for cash on September 10, 1969. Hill was not needed as a starting quarterback, but he appeared in all 14 Cardinals games and became the club’s primary punter, recording 73 punts for 2,746 yards and a 37.6-yard average. For a cash-only acquisition, that immediate special-teams role supplied useful value and gives the Cardinals a modest edge.
Minnesota Vikings received cash from Indianapolis/Baltimore Colts for Jim Maylan. The recorded outcome does not show enough separation to identify a clear winner.
Minnesota acquired quarterback John Huarte and kicker Rich Duncan from Philadelphia on September 3, 1969, for a future draft choice whose exact selection is not identified in the surviving transaction record used here. Contemporary reporting confirms the two-player package for a pick. Huarte and Duncan provided immediate depth to a Vikings team headed toward Super Bowl IV, giving Minnesota a modest practical edge despite limited long-term production.
Arizona Cardinals received draft pick (selection not identified) from Minnesota Vikings for Chuck Logan. The recorded outcome does not show enough separation to identify a clear winner.
Atlanta acquired rookie defensive back Tom McCauley from Minnesota for rookie guard Jon Sandstrom on August 27, 1969. McCauley made the Falcons and played 32 games over three seasons, starting 16, intercepting two passes, and returning a punt for a touchdown in 1970. Sandstrom did not play an NFL regular-season game for Minnesota and later continued his career in Canada. Atlanta received the only meaningful NFL production.
Atlanta sent running back Billy Harris to Minnesota for an unidentified draft choice. Harris appeared in 13 games for the Vikings in 1969 but had only six carries for 13 yards and two receptions for 13 yards, with no touchdowns. Because the exact selection Atlanta received has not been identified, the Falcons’ eventual draft return cannot be measured confidently. The known results support a neutral grade.
Minnesota acquired wide receiver Ken Hebert from Pittsburgh for rookie running back Corny Davis on August 6, 1969. Hebert had been a Steelers third-round pick the year before, but the Vikings released him later that month and he never played a regular-season game for Minnesota. Davis likewise did not become a regular-season contributor for Pittsburgh. With neither incoming player producing game value for his new club, the swap finishes even.
Minnesota Vikings received Don Martin (a) from Los Angeles Rams for draft pick (not exercised?). The recorded outcome does not show enough separation to identify a clear winner.
Minnesota acquired tight end Tony Jeter from Pittsburgh on July 20, 1969, for the 1970 sixth-round selection that became Clarence Kegler. Contemporary reporting and Vikings draft history both identify the future pick, while the draft history pins it to No. 155 overall. Jeter provided only limited Vikings impact, and Kegler did not create a major Steelers payoff, leaving the exchange close to neutral.
Minnesota Vikings received Jim Dillard from Indianapolis/Baltimore Colts for 1970 sixth round pick (selection not identified). The recorded outcome does not show enough separation to identify a clear winner.
Minnesota Vikings received Kent Kramer from Los Angeles Rams for 1970 fourth round pick (#103-Paul Laaveg). The recorded outcome favors Los Angeles Rams.
Atlanta acquired linebacker Don Hansen from Minnesota for a draft choice on April 14, 1969. Hansen became a long-term Falcons starter, appearing in 95 games with 94 starts for Atlanta from 1969 through 1975 and recording 10 interceptions during that run. The exact draft selection sent to Minnesota has not been identified, which limits certainty about the Vikings’ return, but Hansen’s seven seasons of starting value clearly favor Atlanta.
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.
Atlanta Falcons received undisclosed consideration from Minnesota Vikings for 1969 fifth round pick (selection not identified). The recorded outcome does not show enough separation to identify a clear winner.
Philadelphia Eagles received 1969 third round pick (#69-Bill Bradley) from Minnesota Vikings for Phil King. The recorded outcome favors Philadelphia Eagles.
Minnesota acquired veteran quarterback-punter King Hill from Philadelphia for a 1969 third-round pick. The Eagles used No. 69 on Bill Bradley, who became a three-time Pro Bowler, two-time first-team All-Pro and the first player in NFL history to lead the league in interceptions in consecutive seasons. Hill's Vikings stay was brief, making Philadelphia's return dramatically more valuable.
Atlanta Falcons received Bob Berry from Minnesota Vikings for cash. The recorded outcome favors Atlanta Falcons.
Pittsburgh Steelers received cash from Minnesota Vikings for Wally Hilgenberg. The recorded outcome favors Minnesota Vikings.
Minnesota sold rookie tight end Mike Donohoe to Atlanta on September 3, 1968, after drafting him in the ninth round that spring. Donohoe immediately made the Falcons' roster, played all 14 games as a rookie and remained with Atlanta for three seasons. The cash return gave Minnesota something for a player it did not keep, but Atlanta obtained several years of useful depth and wins the exchange.
Detroit Lions received draft pick (selection not identified) from Minnesota Vikings for John Henderson (William). The recorded outcome does not show enough separation to identify a clear winner.
Atlanta Falcons received 1969 draft pick (selection not identified) from Minnesota Vikings for Bucky Pope. The recorded outcome does not show enough separation to identify a clear winner.
Minnesota traded punter Bobby Walden to Pittsburgh for a 1969 fifth-round pick that became Mike O'Shea. Walden immediately handled the Steelers' punting job, made the Pro Bowl in 1969 and remained in Pittsburgh through 1977, including the franchise's first two Super Bowl championship seasons. O'Shea was released by Minnesota before playing an NFL game. Pittsburgh turned a fifth-rounder into a decade-long specialist and wins decisively.
Atlanta Falcons received John Pentecost and Jim Overman from Minnesota Vikings for draft pick (selection not identified). The recorded outcome favors Atlanta Falcons.
Arizona Cardinals received Brady Keys from Minnesota Vikings for future player consideration (identity not specified in source record). The recorded outcome does not show enough separation to identify a clear winner.
Minnesota acquired safety Paul Krause from Washington for Marlin McKeever and a seventh-round pick, one of the defining trades in Vikings history. Krause played 12 seasons in Minnesota, started on all four Vikings Super Bowl teams and retired as the NFL's career interceptions leader with 81, a record he still holds. Washington received legitimate assets, but nothing close to the Hall of Fame value Minnesota captured.
New Orleans Saints received Archie Sutton from Minnesota Vikings for Tom Hall (Francis). The recorded outcome does not show enough separation to identify a clear winner.
Minnesota acquired Detroit's 1968 17th-round choice, No. 445 Bill Hull, while the Lions received Minnesota's 1969 16th-rounder, No. 407 John Stahl. Team draft histories and the draft-pick transaction records align on the exchange. Neither selection produced an NFL contributor, so the trade amounted to a swap of very late lottery tickets with no meaningful separation in eventual value.
Atlanta Falcons received Ron VanderKelen from Minnesota Vikings for 1968 seventh round pick (probably #167-Oscar Reed) and 1969 draft pick (possibly #106-Jim Barnes). The recorded outcome does not show enough separation to identify a clear winner.
Minnesota acquired quarterback Gary Cuozzo from New Orleans for the Vikings' first-round picks in 1968 and 1969. Those selections became Kevin Hardy at No. 7 and John Shinners at No. 17. Neither became a star for the Saints, but two first-round assets still outweighed Cuozzo's uneven Minnesota tenure, giving New Orleans the better return without making the trade a franchise-changing victory.
Atlanta sent Billy Martin to Minnesota on January 24, 1968, for defensive lineman Jerry Shay. Martin gave the Vikings one season, appearing in all 14 games with 10 catches, 101 receiving yards, one touchdown, and regular punting work. Shay became an immediate Atlanta starter and opened 28 games across 1968 and 1969, giving the Falcons the better long-term return.
Atlanta Falcons received undisclosed consideration from Minnesota Vikings for 1968 seventh round pick (selection not identified) and 1969 fifth round pick (selection not identified). The recorded outcome does not show enough separation to identify a clear winner.
Pittsburgh Steelers received 1968 third round pick (#61-Jon Henderson) and draft pick (selection not identified) from Minnesota Vikings for Brady Keys. The recorded outcome favors Pittsburgh Steelers.
New York Giants received Jim Colvin / Rocky Colvin and undisclosed consideration from Minnesota Vikings for draft pick (not exercised) and undisclosed consideration. The recorded outcome does not show enough separation to identify a clear winner.
San Francisco 49ers received draft pick (selection not identified) from Minnesota Vikings for John Pentecost. The recorded outcome does not show enough separation to identify a clear winner.
Dallas Cowboys received undisclosed high draft pick (selection not identified) from Minnesota Vikings for Jim Colvin / Rocky Colvin. The recorded outcome does not show enough separation to identify a clear winner.
Washington received 1968 fifth round pick (#117-Mike Bragg) from Minnesota Vikings for rights to Bob Breitenstein. The recorded outcome does not show enough separation to identify a clear winner.
Dallas Cowboys received Lance Rentzel from Minnesota Vikings for 1968 third round pick (#76-Mike McGill). Rentzel became a major Dallas deep threat, topping 950 receiving yards in 1968 and 1969 and catching 12 touchdowns in 1969. Across the complete player and draft outcomes, the exchange supports the Dallas Cowboys Win verdict while still crediting the other club for the useful value it realized.
Minnesota sent Tommy Mason, Hal Bedsole and its 1967 second-round pick to Los Angeles for Marlin McKeever and the Rams' first-round choice. The Vikings used No. 15 on Alan Page, who became an NFL MVP, Hall of Famer and centerpiece of the Purple People Eaters. McKeever also started for Minnesota before helping bring Paul Krause in another trade, creating extraordinary compounded value.
The Giants acquired Fran Tarkenton and received five seasons of star quarterback play. Minnesota collected a massive pick package that produced Ron Yary, Ed White, Bob Grim, and other value, then later reacquired Tarkenton. New York received the best immediate player, but the Vikings converted the return into more lasting franchise value.
Minnesota Vikings received linebacker Dave Tobey from Pittsburgh Steelers for the 1967 eighth round pick that became No. 192 John Foruria. Tobey played 16 games with two starts for Minnesota across 1966 and 1967, while Foruria played nine games with four starts for Pittsburgh across 1967 and 1968. Both clubs obtained modest roster value, and neither return separated enough to justify a clear winner.
Washington received Bill Briggs from Minnesota Vikings for draft pick (possibly 1967#197-John Beasley). The recorded outcome favors Washington.
Pittsburgh Steelers received 1967 sixth round pick (#140-Mike Haggerty) from Minnesota Vikings for Phil King. The recorded outcome does not show enough separation to identify a clear winner.
New York Giants received Jim Prestel, Larry Vargo / Larry Varge and undisclosed consideration from Minnesota Vikings for Bill Briggs, draft pick (possibly 1967 #135-Don Bandy) and undisclosed consideration. The recorded outcome favors New York Giants.
New York Giants received Bill Swain and undisclosed consideration from Minnesota Vikings for 1966 sixth round pick (#83-Wilbur Aylor) and undisclosed consideration. The recorded outcome does not show enough separation to identify a clear winner.
Minnesota acquired veteran halfback Billy Ray Barnes from Philadelphia for the 1966 20th-round selection that became No. 298 Gerald Circo. Barnes played 16 games with four starts for the Vikings across 1965 and 1966, totaling 199 scrimmage yards and one touchdown. Circo never appeared in an NFL regular-season game, so Minnesota gained the only tangible field value and earns the edge.
New York Giants received Frank McClendon and undisclosed consideration from Minnesota Vikings for "middle round" draft pick (selection not identified) and undisclosed consideration. The recorded outcome does not show enough separation to identify a clear winner.
Minnesota acquired veteran defensive back Gary Lowe from Detroit for its 1966 10th-round selection, which the Lions used on No. 148 Bruce Yates. Minnesota's official draft history confirms that choice was sent to Detroit for Lowe. Lowe's NFL playing record ends with Detroit in 1964, and Yates never appeared in an NFL regular-season game, leaving both clubs without measurable post-trade field production and supporting an even result.
New York Giants received Dave O'Brien and undisclosed consideration from Minnesota Vikings for Bob Taylor (a) and undisclosed consideration. The recorded outcome does not show enough separation to identify a clear winner.
Minnesota acquired Chicago's 1966 fifth-round choice for guard Palmer Pyle and used No. 76 on defensive back Bob Hall. The Vikings' official draft history confirms the pick came from Chicago for Pyle. Hall never appeared in an NFL regular-season game, while Pyle's documented pro career after Minnesota continued with Oakland rather than Chicago. With neither acquired asset producing regular-season value for its new club, the exchange grades even.
Minnesota Vikings received rights to Larry Kramer from Indianapolis/Baltimore Colts for John Campbell and 1966 eighth round pick (#120-Jerry Allen). The recorded outcome does not show enough separation to identify a clear winner.
Minnesota Vikings received Jim Phillips / Red Phillips (b) and Gary Larsen from Los Angeles Rams for rights to Jack Snow. The recorded outcome favors Los Angeles Rams.
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.
Minnesota acquired Mike Bundra and Larry Vargo from Detroit on September 5, 1964, for its 1965 seventh-round and 1966 sixth-round choices. Bundra lasted only four Vikings games, but Vargo played 27 games with 17 starts over two Minnesota seasons and supplied steady defensive-backfield value. The Vikings received the more tangible NFL return from the two-player package.
Detroit Lions received 1965 fifth round pick (#64-Ed Flanagan) and 1964 draft pick (selection not identified) from Minnesota Vikings for Tom Hall (Francis), Bruce Zellmer and Tom Hall (Francis)l. The recorded outcome favors Minnesota Vikings.
Minnesota Vikings received Marv Marinovich from Los Angeles Rams for cash. The recorded outcome does not show enough separation to identify a clear winner.
Detroit Lions received cash from Minnesota Vikings for Tom Hall (Francis). The recorded outcome does not show enough separation to identify a clear winner.
Philadelphia acquired Don Hultz, Ray Poage, Chuck Lamson and Terry Kosens from Minnesota on May 29, 1964, for Ted Dean and the rights to Bob Berry. Poage started 26 games over two Eagles seasons and Hultz became a long-term Philadelphia defender. Dean played only two games for Minnesota, while Berry's early Vikings role was limited, making Philadelphia the clear winner.
Minnesota Vikings received Palmer Pyle from Indianapolis/Baltimore Colts for Steve Stonebreaker. The recorded outcome does not show enough separation to identify a clear winner.
San Francisco acquired tackle Roy Williams from Minnesota on October 30, 1963, for a 1965 eighth-round draft choice that became No. 100 John Hankinson. Williams appeared in seven games for the 49ers that season, while Hankinson never played an NFL regular-season game for Minnesota. The return was modest on both sides, but San Francisco received the only realized NFL playing value.
Minnesota acquired former No. 5 overall pick Bob Ferguson from Pittsburgh in October 1963 for its 1965 third-round selection. Ferguson's Vikings stay amounted to only two games and one rushing yard. Pittsburgh later used the No. 36 pick as part of the package that brought Bill Saul and Marv Woodson from Baltimore, giving the Steelers the more useful and flexible return.
Minnesota Vikings received Bill Jobko from Los Angeles Rams for draft pick (selection not identified). The recorded outcome does not show enough separation to identify a clear winner.
Arizona Cardinals received draft pick (not exercised?) from Minnesota Vikings for George Hultz and Billy Wilson (b). The recorded outcome favors Minnesota Vikings.
Detroit drafted Karl Kassulke in the 11th round in 1963 but waived him during August roster cuts before he played a regular-season game for the Lions. Minnesota then signed him, and he spent his entire 10-year NFL career with the Vikings. The evidence does not support the existing cash-trade description, so this row is corrected to a waiver-and-signing sequence rather than a bilateral trade.
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.
Minnesota Vikings received Tom Wilson from Los Angeles Rams for 1964 tenth round pick (#131-Ron Smith). The recorded outcome does not show enough separation to identify a clear winner.
New York Giants received Hugh McElhenny and undisclosed consideration from Minnesota Vikings for 1964 fourth round pick (#53-Tom Keating), 1965 second round pick (#15-Archie Sutton) and undisclosed consideration. The recorded outcome favors Minnesota Vikings.
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 acquired Bill Brown from Chicago for a 1964 fourth-round pick that became linebacker Mike Reilly. Brown developed into one of the foundational players of the early Vikings, spending 13 seasons in Minnesota, making four Pro Bowls, rushing for 5,757 yards, and entering the team's Ring of Honor. Reilly had a respectable six-year NFL career, but his value never approached Brown's franchise impact.
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.
Arizona Cardinals received "high" draft pick (not exercised) from Minnesota Vikings for Dale Memmelaar. The recorded outcome does not show enough separation to identify a clear winner.
Pittsburgh Steelers received Ed Culpepper from Minnesota Vikings for "high" draft pick (selection not identified). The recorded outcome does not show enough separation to identify a clear winner.
New York Giants received Dick Pesonen, 1963 draft pick (#87-Dave Hoppmann) and undisclosed consideration from Minnesota Vikings for Cliff Livingston and undisclosed consideration. The recorded outcome does not show enough separation to identify a clear winner.
Philadelphia Eagles received 1962 seventh round pick (#86-Jim Perkins) from Minnesota Vikings for Jerry Reichow. The recorded outcome does not show enough separation to identify a clear winner.
Washington received undisclosed draft pick (selection not identified) and undisclosed draft pick (undisclosed) from Minnesota Vikings for Jerry Reichow. The recorded outcome does not show enough separation to identify a clear winner.
Cleveland Browns received draft picks (undisclosed) from Minnesota Vikings for Jim Marshall (Lawrence) and Billy Gault. The recorded outcome favors Cleveland Browns.
New York Giants received Charlie Janerette / Charley Janerette / Chuck Janerette and undisclosed consideration from Minnesota Vikings for Ed Mazurek and undisclosed consideration. The recorded outcome does not show enough separation to identify a clear winner.
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.
New York Giants received 1963 seventh round pick (#87-Dave Hoppmann) and undisclosed consideration from Minnesota Vikings for Jim Leo (a) and undisclosed consideration. The recorded outcome does not show enough separation to identify a clear winner.
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.
New York Giants received Dave Whitsell, Zeke Smith, 1962 fifth round pick (#58-Gene Bolin / Bookie Bolin), 1962 draft pick (selection not identified) and undisclosed consideration from Minnesota Vikings for Mel Triplett, Bob Schnelker, Bob Schmidt and undisclosed consideration. The recorded outcome does not show enough separation to identify a clear winner.
Minnesota Vikings received Will Sherman (a) from Los Angeles Rams for draft pick (selection not identified). 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.
New York Giants received 1962 first round pick (#2) [later traded to Los Angeles Rams for Del Shofner and 1962 first round pick (#13-Jerry Hillebrand)] and undisclosed consideration from Minnesota Vikings for George Shaw and undisclosed consideration. The recorded outcome favors New York Giants.