Pittsburgh Steelers
Trade grades, verdicts, asset movement, and historical context for Pittsburgh Steelers franchise trades.
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Pittsburgh Steelers
Dallas acquired cornerback Joey Porter Jr. from Pittsburgh for a 2028 second-round pick and a 2027 sixth-round pick on September 30, 2026. The Cowboys add a starting-caliber outside corner to an injury-hit secondary, but they also inherit the contract question that helped drive the standoff in Pittsburgh. The Steelers turn a player who had not appeared in the first three games into a premium future pick plus extra Day 3 capital, giving Pittsburgh the stronger current-read value.
Green Bay acquired running back Kaleb Johnson from Pittsburgh for a 2028 sixth-round pick on August 30, 2026, pending a physical. Johnson was the 83rd pick in the 2025 draft but had a limited rookie season, while Green Bay suddenly needed more backfield insurance. The Packers get a narrow current-read edge because they bought recent third-round pedigree and multiple years of team control for a future sixth.
Dallas acquired offensive tackle Broderick Jones and a 2027 fourth-round pick from Pittsburgh on August 29, 2026. The Steelers received Dallas' 2027 third- and sixth-round selections. Jones gives Dallas a former first-round tackle with starting experience, while Pittsburgh moved a player who had slipped down its depth chart and improved its position in the future draft.
Pittsburgh sent Kansas City picks No. 161 and No. 249 in the 2026 draft and received No. 169 plus No. 210. The Steelers used those incoming selections on Riley Nowakowski and Gabriel Rubio. Pittsburgh moved down eight spots in the fifth round to add a sixth-round choice, a reasonable two-for-two reshaping of late capital. With no regular-season results yet, the prior Steelers-win label is too early and an Even Trade fits better.
Pittsburgh moved from No. 53 to No. 47 in the 2026 second round and selected receiver Germie Bernard, also receiving pick No. 249. Indianapolis received Nos. 53, 135 and 237, using them on CJ Allen, Bryce Boettcher and Seth McGowan. The Steelers paid two later selections to secure their preferred receiver, while the Colts added volume without leaving the second round; that balance supports an Even Trade and C grades.
Indianapolis traded Michael Pittman Jr. and the No. 230 pick to Pittsburgh for No. 214. The Colts used No. 214 on Ohio State edge defender Caden Curry, who made the regular-season roster and appeared in each of Indianapolis' first three games.
Pittsburgh acquired Michael Pittman Jr. and the No. 230 selection for the No. 214 pick, moving back only sixteen draft slots to add a proven starting receiver. Indianapolis gained a modest upgrade in draft position and moved on from a veteran entering a new roster phase. The low acquisition cost gives Pittsburgh the early edge before Pittman has played a regular-season game for the Steelers.
Pittsburgh acquired veteran safety Kyle Dugger and a 2026 seventh-round pick from New England in October 2025 for a 2026 sixth-round pick. Dugger arrived with 81 career games, 69 starts, nine interceptions and extensive starting experience. The late-round pick swap narrowed the acquisition cost, making this a veteran-for-draft-position transaction rather than a pure player sale.
Pittsburgh acquired Jalen Ramsey, Jonnu Smith and a 2027 seventh-round pick from Miami for Minkah Fitzpatrick and a 2027 fifth. Ramsey immediately became a full-time defensive starter, while Smith’s Pittsburgh stay lasted only one season. Miami received 14 starts from Fitzpatrick before moving him again in 2026, leaving the still-unresolved 2027 pick swap as an important part of the final value.
Dallas acquired George Pickens and a 2027 sixth-round pick from Pittsburgh for a 2026 third-rounder and a 2027 fifth. Pickens immediately delivered 93 catches, 1,429 yards and nine touchdowns in 2025, earning Pro Bowl and second-team All-Pro recognition. Pittsburgh used the third-round choice, No. 76, on quarterback Drew Allar, leaving its long-term return dependent on a rookie passer and a future pick.
Kansas City moved from No. 164 to No. 156 in the 2025 fifth round and selected linebacker Jeffrey Bassa, giving Pittsburgh No. 164 and No. 226. Bassa played all 17 games as a rookie and recorded 15 combined tackles with a forced fumble. That is a useful first season, but Pittsburgh received two contributors and more defensive production from Yahya Black, so the early returns favor the Steelers.
Pittsburgh acquired D.K. Metcalf and pick No. 185 from Seattle for picks No. 52 and No. 223 in the 2025 draft. Seattle's earlier row listed No. 52 twice; the clean return is one second-rounder and one seventh-rounder. Metcalf then produced 850 yards and six touchdowns in 15 games for Pittsburgh, giving the Steelers substantial immediate production alongside the sixth-round selection.
Pittsburgh acquired Mike Williams from the Jets for a 2025 fifth-round pick, hoping a veteran deep threat could strengthen a playoff-bound offense. Williams caught nine passes for 132 yards and one touchdown in nine regular-season games, then added one 37-yard playoff catch. New York used the pick on linebacker Francisco Mauigoa, who started eight games as a rookie. The continuing rookie-contract value now gives the Jets the stronger return.
Pittsburgh acquired veteran edge rusher Preston Smith from Green Bay for a 2025 seventh-round pick. Smith recorded 13 tackles and two sacks in eight regular-season games while working behind T.J. Watt, Alex Highsmith and Nick Herbig, then was released in February 2025. That useful but brief depth contribution gives the Steelers only a narrow advantage.
Pittsburgh acquired Justin Fields for a conditional 2025 sixth-round pick that remained a sixth and became No. 202 overall. Fields gave the Steelers a useful one-year bridge, going 4-2 in six starts and finishing 2024 with 1,106 passing yards, 289 rushing yards and 10 total touchdowns. Chicago later used the No. 202 pick to acquire guard Jonah Jackson from the Rams. Jackson started all 17 games for the 2025 Bears and remained a starter entering 2026, giving Chicago the stronger realized downstream return to date.
Pittsburgh sent Kenny Pickett and pick No. 120 to Philadelphia for No. 98 and two 2025 seventh-rounders. The Steelers used No. 98 on Payton Wilson, who has become a productive linebacker with 181 career tackles and two interceptions through 2025. Pickett served as Jalen Hurts’ backup on a Super Bowl champion and later brought Philadelphia Dorian Thompson-Robinson plus a fifth-round pick. Pittsburgh still leads, but the Eagles’ return deserves more credit.
Pittsburgh sent Diontae Johnson and pick No. 240 to Carolina for Donte Jackson and No. 178, which became Logan Lee. Jackson gave the Steelers immediate starting value and five interceptions in 2024, while Johnson caught 30 passes for 357 yards and three touchdowns in seven Panthers games before Carolina traded him again. The short Carolina stay and Jackson’s defensive production move this from an even trade to a Pittsburgh win.
Houston Texans received Kendrick Green in the exchange with Pittsburgh Steelers. Kendrick Green gave Houston 21 games and four starts, providing real but modest offensive-line value after the trade. Against Pittsburgh Steelers' return of 2025 6th round pick (202nd overall subsequently traded, Gavin Bartholomew), that outcome supports a C+ grade. The transaction is judged as Pittsburgh Steelers Win, with the mark based on the football value that actually followed from the deal.
Los Angeles acquired Kevin Dotson plus Pittsburgh's 2024 fifth- and 2025 sixth-round picks for the Rams' 2024 fourth- and 2025 fifth-round choices. Dotson immediately became a starting guard, then re-signed on a three-year deal and started 45 regular-season games for Los Angeles from 2023 through 2025. Pittsburgh gained better draft positions, but the Rams found a high-level long-term starter at a manageable trade price.
Pittsburgh moved down from No. 80 to No. 93 and added pick No. 132, selecting Darnell Washington and Nick Herbig. Washington became a regular tight end, while Herbig produced 16 sacks and nine forced fumbles through his first three seasons. Carolina used No. 80 on DJ Johnson, whose defensive impact was far smaller. Turning one third-round slot into two contributors makes Pittsburgh the clear winner.
Pittsburgh sent picks 17 and 120 to New England for No. 14, using the move up on tackle Broderick Jones. Jones has started 38 games through three seasons but missed the final six games of 2025 with injury. New England stayed in the first round and drafted Christian Gonzalez, a 2024 second-team All-Pro and 2025 Pro Bowler. The fourth-round asset was later moved, and Gonzalez’s elite cornerback play now gives New England a clear win.
Pittsburgh acquired Allen Robinson and the 251st pick in 2023 from the Rams for No. 234. Robinson started all 17 games and caught 34 passes for 280 yards in his lone Steelers season, while No. 251 became Spencer Anderson, who developed into a useful lineman with 42 games and 11 starts through 2025. That combined return gives Pittsburgh the narrow hindsight edge.
Pittsburgh traded Chase Claypool to Chicago for the Bears' 2023 second-round pick, which finished No. 32 overall and became Joey Porter Jr. Claypool played only 10 games for Chicago, catching 18 passes for 191 yards and one touchdown before the Bears traded him to Miami. Porter has started 41 games through three seasons with 31 passes defensed and three interceptions. The trade became a franchise-level win for Pittsburgh.
Pittsburgh acquired cornerback William Jackson III and a conditional 2025 seventh-round choice from Washington while sending back a conditional 2025 sixth-round choice. Jackson never appeared in a game for the Steelers because of a back injury and was released in March 2023. The playing-time conditions were not met, so neither conditional draft choice changed hands. Pittsburgh therefore received essentially no realized on-field value.
Denver traded linebacker Malik Reed and a 2023 seventh-round pick to Pittsburgh for a 2023 sixth-round selection. The Steelers used the seventh on Cory Trice, while Denver's incoming sixth later moved through another deal and became tied to A.T. Perry. Reed spent one season in Pittsburgh and did not become a long-term starter there. Denver's ability to turn a departing depth defender into the higher draft asset gives the Broncos a slight edge.
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.
Kansas City Chiefs received Melvin Ingram from Pittsburgh Steelers. Kansas City received Melvin Ingram and used him as a veteran pass rusher during a playoff run. The Chiefs gained useful short-term help at a position of need. That outcome supports a C+ grade for Kansas City Chiefs. The final verdict is Pittsburgh Steelers Win, based on the football value the club actually realized from the assets it controlled after the exchange.
Pittsburgh acquired cornerback Ahkello Witherspoon from Seattle for a 2023 fifth-round pick. Witherspoon supplied meaningful defensive snaps and interceptions during his Steelers tenure, giving Pittsburgh useful present value at a contained cost. Seattle later used the selection on Mike Morris, but his early production did not match what Pittsburgh received. The Steelers therefore hold a slight edge in an otherwise modest trade.
Jacksonville Jaguars Jacksonville received the 2022 sixth-round pick at No. 198 and later used it as part of additional draft movement. The pick preserved some value, but the direct return was less substantial than Pittsburgh's season of starting linebacker production. The supported hindsight grade is C. That mark weighs only value tied directly to this transaction and keeps the result proportional to the deal's cost. Against Pittsburgh Steelers, the final verdict is Pittsburgh Steelers Win.
Miami moved pick No. 156 in the 2021 draft to Pittsburgh and received the Steelers' 2022 fourth-round pick, No. 125, which the Dolphins used on wide receiver Erik Ezukanma. The trade gave Miami a higher-value future selection, but Ezukanma did not produce enough on-field value to create a large advantage. The draft-capital gain still leaves Miami slightly ahead in a modest exchange.
New York sent Avery Williamson and a 2022 seventh-round pick to Pittsburgh for a 2022 fifth-rounder. The Jets later moved that fifth-round selection again, so the return was primarily extra draft flexibility during a rebuilding season rather than a player who directly became part of the roster. Moving a veteran on an expiring deal made sense, but the eventual value was modest.
Pittsburgh sent Baltimore a 2021 fifth-round pick for defensive lineman Chris Wormley and a 2021 seventh-rounder. Wormley became a useful Steelers rotational lineman and produced a career-best seven sacks in 2021, while Pittsburgh used the seventh-round selection on punter Pressley Harvin III. Baltimore moved the fifth-round asset again, but its downstream return did not match the multi-season service Pittsburgh received from both incoming pieces.
Pittsburgh Steelers
Seattle traded tight end Nick Vannett to Pittsburgh on September 25, 2019 for a 2020 fifth-round pick. Vannett supplied the Steelers with 13 games, six starts, 13 receptions and 128 yards that season, then left after the year. Seattle later used the acquired No. 162 selection in the trade for cornerback Quinton Dunbar, preserving additional transaction value from a departing depth player.
Pittsburgh traded a 2020 first-rounder and smaller draft pieces for 22-year-old Minkah Fitzpatrick, receiving a 2020 fourth-rounder and 2021 seventh-rounder in return. Fitzpatrick immediately became the centerpiece of the secondary, earning first-team All-Pro honors and repeatedly delivering game-changing takeaways. The Steelers paid premium capital, but they acquired a proven young defensive star rather than merely hoping to draft one with the pick.
Jacksonville Jaguars acquired Joshua Dobbs from Pittsburgh in 2019 for a 2020 fifth-round pick. Dobbs did not appear in a regular-season game for Jacksonville before returning to the Steelers the following year, so the Jaguars gained almost no direct on-field value. Giving up useful fifth-round capital for a backup quarterback who never played leaves Jacksonville with a D+.
Pittsburgh sent Jerald Hawkins and a 2021 seventh-round pick to Tampa Bay for a 2021 sixth-round pick. The selections became Quincy Roche at No. 216 for Pittsburgh and Chris Wilcox at No. 251 for Tampa Bay. None of the principal returns produced enough sustained value to create meaningful separation, leaving the deal close to even.
Pittsburgh traded up from No. 20 to No. 10 for linebacker Devin Bush, sending Denver pick No. 52 and a 2020 third-rounder as part of the price. Denver selected Noah Fant at No. 20 and later turned the additional capital into more roster value, including center Lloyd Cushenberry. Bush flashed early but never regained his trajectory after a 2020 knee injury, giving Denver the stronger package.
Arizona Cardinals received Marcus Gilbert from Pittsburgh Steelers. Marcus Gilbert tore his ACL before the 2019 opener, never played a regular-season game for Arizona, and later opted out of the 2020 season. The F grade reflects the direct value Arizona Cardinals realized from the transaction, with the final Pittsburgh Steelers Win call based on actual service and clearly traceable draft outcomes rather than projected value.
Pittsburgh salvaged meaningful value from a relationship with Antonio Brown that had become untenable, receiving 2019 third- and fifth-round picks from Oakland. The third-rounder became Diontae Johnson and the fifth became Zach Gentry, while Brown never played a regular-season snap for the Raiders. The Steelers did not receive peak-market value for an elite receiver, but converting a collapsing situation into two useful players became a decisive win.
The Raiders received Pittsburgh's 2019 fifth-round pick and converted that asset into A.J. McCarron in a separate trade days later. McCarron appeared in only two Raiders games and completed one of three passes. Because the acquired fifth-rounder was itself moved onward, Oakland's direct realized value from this exchange remained limited despite preserving short-term quarterback depth.
Pittsburgh Steelers received 2018 3rd round pick (76th overall, Mason Rudolph) in the 2018-04-27 exchange with Seattle Seahawks. Mason Rudolph supplied useful backup and spot-starting quarterback value, making Pittsburgh's side respectable rather than empty. The direct return and the football value it produced drive the hindsight judgment. Against the assets Pittsburgh Steelers surrendered, the result supports Seattle Seahawks Win and a C+ grade for Pittsburgh Steelers.
Oakland sent Pittsburgh the 79th pick in the 2018 draft for wide receiver Martavis Bryant. Bryant's Raiders tenure was turbulent and brief: he was released before Week 1, re-signed, then finished 2018 with 19 catches for 266 yards and no touchdowns in eight games. The third-round cost was too high for that return, giving Pittsburgh a clear advantage.
New York acquired Ross Cockrell for a 2018 seventh-round pick and immediately received starting-caliber cornerback play. Cockrell appeared in all 16 games, started nine, intercepted three passes, and broke up 11 in 2017. Pittsburgh later packaged the No. 220 pick with No. 79 to move up to No. 76, where it drafted Mason Rudolph. The pick had real trade-up utility, but Rudolph's entire career cannot be credited solely to that seventh-rounder, leaving the Giants with the clearer direct return.
Pittsburgh sent Sammie Coates and a 2019 seventh-round pick to Cleveland on September 2, 2017 for Cleveland's 2018 sixth-round pick, the same selection Pittsburgh had previously sent away in the Justin Gilbert deal. Coates produced only 70 receiving yards for Cleveland in 2017, while the exchanged draft choices were later moved again before other clubs used them.
Pittsburgh Steelers received Dashaun Phillips in the exchange with Washington. Its C grade reflects the practical value of that return relative to the package surrendered and the hindsight result. The grade remains tied to documented value for the acquiring club, without assigning credit for unresolved or hypothetical downstream consideration.
Cleveland Browns received 2018 6th round pick (202nd overall subsequently traded, Jack Cichy) from Pittsburgh Steelers, giving up Justin Gilbert. Gilbert provided very limited value in Pittsburgh, while Cleveland kept the future pick. The return supports a B grade because the value directly tied to this deal fits that mark. The final verdict is Cleveland Browns Win.
New York Giants received Brad Wing in the 2015-09-04 exchange with Pittsburgh Steelers. Wing handled New York's punting job for three seasons and 48 games, giving the Giants stable specialist value. That gives New York Giants the stronger overall return. The transaction still produced a concrete basis for the hindsight grade.
Jacksonville traded veteran kicker Josh Scobee to Pittsburgh on August 31, 2015 for a 2016 sixth-round pick, later No. 201 and used on Brandon Allen. Scobee's Pittsburgh tenure lasted only four games before the Steelers released him after costly misses. Jacksonville did not receive Allen's later production with other clubs as direct value, but converting a departing kicker into a draft choice still produced the better result.
Philadelphia traded cornerback Brandon Boykin to Pittsburgh on August 1, 2015 for a conditional 2016 pick that ultimately became fifth-round No. 164. The Eagles used that selection on Halapoulivaati Vaitai, who developed into a multi-year offensive-line contributor and eventual Super Bowl starter. Boykin spent only one season in Pittsburgh, so Philadelphia converted a short-term defensive back into substantially greater lasting value.
Arizona Cardinals received a conditional 2014 pick (not conveyed) from Pittsburgh Steelers, sending Levi Brown the other way. Neither side realized meaningful value, supporting an even low grade. That outcome supports a C- grade for Arizona Cardinals, and the overall verdict is Even Trade. The grade stays proportional to the size of the exchange and the direct value created for the original club.
Philadelphia Eagles received Adrian Robinson in the exchange with Pittsburgh Steelers. Its C grade reflects the practical value of that return relative to the package surrendered and the hindsight result. The grade remains tied to documented value for the acquiring club, without assigning credit for unresolved or hypothetical downstream consideration.
Pittsburgh traded a future 2014 third-round pick to Cleveland to move into the 2013 fourth round for safety Shamarko Thomas at No. 111. Thomas spent four seasons with the Steelers but started only twice. Cleveland later used the No. 83 choice as part of its move up for Johnny Manziel, leaving neither side with a durable win from the original exchange.
Pittsburgh sent a fifth-round pick to Arizona and received cornerback Bryant McFadden plus the sixth-round selection used on Antonio Brown. McFadden returned as a starter, while Brown became a four-time first-team All-Pro and one of the most productive receivers of his era. Arizona selected John Skelton, who provided some quarterback starts but could not balance the return.
Pittsburgh Steelers received Byron Leftwich. Pittsburgh reacquired Byron Leftwich as experienced quarterback depth. He served a useful reserve role, but the move was not designed to produce a long-term starting return. Compared with Tampa Bay Buccaneers's return, the result supports a C+ grade and fits the Even Trade verdict.
The Jets acquired Santonio Holmes for the 155th pick and received two productive seasons plus major 2010 playoff contributions. Pittsburgh then flipped that same pick to Arizona for cornerback Bryant McFadden and pick No. 195, which became Antonio Brown. Holmes was a worthwhile bargain for New York, but Brown developed into a four-time first-team All-Pro and one of the era's dominant receivers. The downstream value makes Pittsburgh the long-term winner.
Pittsburgh Steelers
Denver traded two third-round picks to Pittsburgh for No. 64 and No. 132, then selected tight end Richard Quinn and guard Seth Olsen. Quinn caught one pass in three Broncos seasons and Olsen never became a Denver starter. Pittsburgh used No. 84 on Mike Wallace, who produced two 1,000-yard seasons and a Pro Bowl nod for the Steelers, making the value gap enormous even before considering Kraig Urbik.
Pittsburgh traded center Sean Mahan to Tampa Bay on September 2, 2008 for the Buccaneers' 2009 seventh-round pick, No. 226. Tampa Bay used Mahan as interior-line depth for 21 regular-season games and four starts across 2008 and 2009. Pittsburgh used No. 226 on center A.Q. Shipley, but Shipley was waived before the 2009 regular season and never appeared in a regular-season game for the Steelers.
New York moved up seven spots in the fourth round on April 27, 2008, sending Pittsburgh picks No. 130 and No. 194 for No. 123. The Giants selected BYU linebacker Bryan Kehl. He played 31 regular-season games with three starts for New York from 2008 through the 2010 opener, recording 43 combined tackles, one sack, one interception and one pass defended before the Giants waived him. The trade-up produced useful depth and special-teams work, but no lasting starting role.
Pittsburgh moved down seven spots in the fourth round of the 2008 draft, sending No. 123 to the Giants and receiving Nos. 130 and 194. Pittsburgh used those selections on tackle Tony Hills and safety Ryan Mundy, while New York drafted linebacker Bryan Kehl. None became a franchise-level player, leaving the exchange close to even in hindsight.
Pittsburgh acquired return specialist Allen Rossum from Atlanta in 2007 for a conditional 2008 seventh-round pick that became No. 232 Keith Zinger. Rossum immediately led the Steelers with 885 kickoff-return yards and scored a 98-yard return touchdown before leaving after the season. Atlanta gained a late selection, but Pittsburgh received the more useful immediate return.
Pittsburgh traded picks No. 119 and No. 192 to Green Bay for No. 112 and selected punter Daniel Sepulveda. Green Bay used No. 119 on Allen Barbre and No. 192 on linebacker Desmond Bishop. Sepulveda contributed when healthy, while Bishop developed into a championship-era starter, giving the Packers the stronger long-term football return.
New England Patriots agreed to send rookie running back Patrick Cobbs to Pittsburgh for a conditional 2007 fifth-round choice. Cobbs was waived by the Steelers roughly a week later, and the condition was not satisfied, so New England received no conveyed pick. With no lasting player or draft return produced by the agreement, the Patriots receive a D in an even low-value 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.
New York moved down from No. 25 to No. 32 in the 2006 first round and added third- and fourth-round selections, turning the package into Mathias Kiwanuka, Gerris Wilkinson and Guy Whimper. Kiwanuka became the centerpiece, spending nine seasons with the Giants, playing 120 games and recording 38.5 sacks while contributing to both Super Bowl championship eras.
Pittsburgh moved from No. 32 to No. 25 in the 2006 first round and selected Santonio Holmes, sending the Giants No. 32 plus picks 96 and 129. Holmes became a productive Steelers receiver and the MVP of Super Bowl XLIII. New York still converted the return into Mathias Kiwanuka, Gerris Wilkinson and Guy Whimper, giving the Giants useful depth and a long-term defensive contributor.
Carolina acquired offensive lineman Todd Fordham from Pittsburgh in 2004 for the 2005 seventh-round pick that became No. 228 Shaun Nua. Fordham appeared in 47 regular-season games for Carolina from 2004 through 2006 and made eight starts, while Nua produced little NFL playing value. The Panthers gained the stronger practical return, though the low acquisition cost keeps the margin modest.
Pittsburgh traded up from No. 44 to No. 38 in the 2004 second round for cornerback Ricardo Colclough, sending Indianapolis the 44th and 107th picks. The Colts used No. 44 on Bob Sanders, who became a first-team All-Pro and the 2007 AP Defensive Player of the Year, while Kendyll Pope added depth from the fourth-round pick. Colclough never became a comparable starter, making Indianapolis the overwhelming winner.
Pittsburgh moved from No. 27 to No. 16 in the 2003 draft to select Troy Polamalu, surrendering its first-, third- and sixth-round picks to Kansas City. Polamalu became a Hall of Fame safety, Defensive Player of the Year and central figure on two Super Bowl champions. Trading multiple selections for one player carries obvious risk, but Pittsburgh identified a generational fit and received far more value than the price suggests.
Los Angeles Rams received Troy Edwards from Pittsburgh Steelers. The Rams received Troy Edwards and obtained a modest receiving contribution during the 2002 season. He gave St. Louis immediate regular-season value after the exchange. That outcome supports a C+ grade for Los Angeles Rams. The final verdict is Los Angeles Rams Win, based on the football value the club actually realized from the assets it controlled after the exchange.
Pittsburgh moved from No. 50 to No. 39 in the 2001 second round and selected linebacker Kendrell Bell. Bell played 90 NFL games and recorded 20.5 sacks, giving the Steelers an immediate productive defensive starter. New England received Nos. 50 and 112 and later used both selections in additional trades, preserving useful flexibility from the move down.
Pittsburgh moved down from No. 16 to No. 19, added two later picks, and selected Casey Hampton. Hampton became a five-time Pro Bowler and the anchor of two Super Bowl-winning defenses. The Jets selected Santana Moss, who became a productive receiver and later returned trade value, but Pittsburgh acquired the more important player while adding extra capital.
Pittsburgh Steelers
Washington traded tackle Shar Pourdanesh to Pittsburgh in August 1999 for a conditional 2000 seventh-round pick that would transfer if he made the Steelers' roster. The condition was satisfied, and the pick became No. 216, Delbert Cowsette. Pittsburgh obtained immediate tackle depth at a low price, while Washington recovered a late selection. The useful short-term fit gives Pittsburgh a slight edge.
Oakland sent a 2000 third-round pick to Pittsburgh for two 1999 fifth-rounders, Nos. 146 and 163. The Raiders used No. 146 on linebacker Eric Barton, who played 160 NFL games and recorded 20 sacks. Pittsburgh later used the acquired third-rounder on Hank Poteat, a 110-game defensive back and returner. Both sides found NFL players, but Barton became the more impactful long-term starter.
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.
Pittsburgh acquired wide receiver Alex Van Dyke from the Jets on March 25, 1999 for a sixth-round choice, No. 183, later used on Marc Megna. Van Dyke gave the Steelers an experienced receiving option, while New York converted a player it was ready to move into late draft capital. Neither return became a long-term difference-maker, but Pittsburgh received the slightly more direct roster value.
Pittsburgh sent linebacker Steve Conley to Indianapolis on August 30, 1998 and received the Colts' 1999 fifth-round pick. The selection became No. 136, Jerame Tuman. Indianapolis obtained immediate linebacker depth, while Pittsburgh turned Conley into a draft asset that produced a long-term tight end for the Steelers. That lasting return gives Pittsburgh the better side of an otherwise modest transaction.
Arizona Cardinals received J.B. Brown in the exchange with Pittsburgh Steelers. J.B. Brown played 15 games with six starts for Arizona during the Cardinals' 1998 playoff season. He supplied useful immediate secondary depth at a low acquisition cost. The B- grade reflects the direct value Arizona Cardinals realized from the deal, while the Pittsburgh Steelers Win call weighs actual regular-season service and clearly connected draft value rather than name recognition alone.
San Diego Chargers received Erric Pegram in the 1998-07-02 exchange with Pittsburgh Steelers. Erric Pegram had only a brief Chargers stint, so San Diego did not receive enough sustained production to create a meaningful advantage. The direct package is the basis for the hindsight grade, with later movement of an acquired selection treated separately. That supports Even Trade.
Pittsburgh sent the 137th pick in the 1998 draft to Atlanta for three seventh-round selections. The Steelers used No. 137 on defensive back Jason Simmons, who played 121 career games. Atlanta selected offensive tackle Ephraim Salaam at No. 199, and Salaam became a 13-year player with 163 games and 129 starts. Pittsburgh found a useful professional, but Atlanta found the best player while also receiving two additional picks.
Pittsburgh traded three selections to the Jets to move from No. 56 to No. 41 in the 1998 draft, using the higher pick on defensive lineman Jeremy Staat. Staat played only 31 NFL games and started twice. New York used the return on Dorian Boose, Kevin Williams and Eric Bateman. None became a star, but the Jets received more playable depth and three chances for a player who did not justify Pittsburgh’s move-up cost.
Carolina Panthers Carolina acquired Israel Raybon, who played nine games with one start before being waived. The Panthers received some immediate depth, but the contribution was brief. The supported hindsight grade is D+. That mark weighs only value tied directly to this transaction and keeps the result proportional to the deal's cost. Against Pittsburgh Steelers, the final verdict is Pittsburgh Steelers Win.
Baltimore Ravens Baltimore acquired Bernard Dafney, but he appeared in only one game before his Ravens tenure ended. That minimal return leaves Baltimore well behind the value Pittsburgh preserved in the acquired draft asset. The supported hindsight grade is D. That mark weighs only value tied directly to this transaction and keeps the result proportional to the deal's cost. Against Pittsburgh Steelers, the final verdict is Pittsburgh Steelers Win.
Kansas City acquired Brentson Buckner from Pittsburgh for a 1997 seventh-round choice, but the move produced no regular-season value for the Chiefs. Buckner was released on August 24 and claimed by Cincinnati on August 25, where he played 14 games that season. The Chiefs surrendered draft capital for a player they did not carry into the season.
Pittsburgh sent the 1996 sixth-round pick at No. 192 to San Diego for the Chargers’ 1997 fifth-round choice at No. 146. San Diego selected Bryan Stoltenberg, who appeared in nine games without a start for the Chargers. Pittsburgh later included the fifth-rounder in a separate package that returned a 1998 third-round choice, giving the Steelers the better asset progression.
Pittsburgh acquired Jerome Bettis and a third-round pick for a package led by Ernie Conwell and future fourth-round value. Bettis became a Hall of Fame runner, the identity of the Steelers offense, and a central figure in a championship era. The Rams received useful value, but Pittsburgh acquired the player who defined the deal.
Kansas City Chiefs received 1996 7th round pick (211th overall, Ben Lynch) from Pittsburgh Steelers. Kansas City received the 1996 seventh-round choice later used on Ben Lynch. That selection did not create a comparable regular-season return for the Chiefs. That outcome supports a D grade for Kansas City Chiefs. The final verdict is Pittsburgh Steelers Win, based on the football value the club actually realized from the assets it controlled after the exchange.
Carolina acquired Barry Foster hoping the former Pittsburgh standout could stabilize its backfield, but the move never produced regular-season value. Foster was released before the 1995 season began and never appeared in a Panthers game. That left Carolina with no direct return from the player it acquired, making the future sixth-round selection surrendered to Pittsburgh more costly in hindsight.
New England received Leroy Thompson, who delivered one productive all-purpose season for the Patriots. That immediate contribution gave New England useful value, though the return was not so large or durable that it clearly separated the Patriots from Pittsburgh. The B- grade reflects that realized football value and the complete supported package, while the overall verdict is Even Trade.
Chicago Bears received Jeff Graham in the 1994-04-29 exchange with Pittsburgh Steelers. Pittsburgh sent Jeff Graham to Chicago for the future fifth-round choice used on Lee Flowers. Graham immediately became a major Bears receiving piece, including a 1,301-yard season in 1995, while Flowers developed into a long-tenured Steelers defensive back and starter. The documented result supports a B- grade for Chicago Bears. The overall verdict is Even Trade, based on realized value rather than hypothetical upside.
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.
Pittsburgh traded running back Tim Worley to Chicago on October 19, 1993, for conditional draft compensation. The realized 1994 choice became No. 140, safety Myron Bell, while the later 1995 condition was not exercised. Worley gave Chicago 437 rushing yards in ten 1993 games, but Bell's six Pittsburgh seasons and 80 appearances ultimately created more durable value.
Pittsburgh moved from No. 49 to No. 44 in the 1993 second round, sending Indianapolis No. 49 and No. 107. The Steelers selected linebacker Chad Brown, who became a first-team All-Pro and Pro Bowler in Pittsburgh. Indianapolis landed running back Roosevelt Potts and linebacker Devon McDonald, both useful players. The Colts received real value, but Brown's peak and impact make Pittsburgh the clear winner.
Dallas acquired safety Thomas Everett from Pittsburgh in September 1992 for the 1993 fifth-round pick that became No. 140 Marc Woodard. Everett became a key Cowboys starter, earned a 1993 Pro Bowl selection and won two Super Bowls with Dallas, while Woodard never played a regular-season game for Pittsburgh. The realized value makes this a decisive Cowboys win.
Pittsburgh Steelers received 1993 seventh round pick (#185-Jeff Zgonina) from Washington Commanders, sending Huey Richardson the other way. Pittsburgh won this trade decisively in hindsight. That outcome supports a B+ grade for Pittsburgh Steelers, and the overall verdict is Pittsburgh Steelers Win. The grade stays proportional to the size of the exchange and the direct value created for the original club.
Pittsburgh sent the 151st pick to San Francisco in the 1992 draft and received three later choices: Nos. 188, 203 and 215. The Steelers selected Scottie Graham, Darren Perry and Nate Williams, while the 49ers used No. 151 on Damien Russell. Perry became a long-term Pittsburgh starter, making the Steelers clear winners. The corrected package includes the previously omitted No. 215 selection.
Pittsburgh moved from No. 100 to No. 88 in the 1991 draft and selected defensive back Sammy Walker. Walker played only 18 games for the Steelers with four starts. New England received picks No. 100 and No. 127, then used subsequent trades involving those selections to create additional assets, including the pick that became five-time Pro Bowl tight end Ben Coates.
Washington Commanders received Tim Johnson. Washington acquired defensive lineman Tim Johnson. He spent six seasons with the club, started 67 games, and recorded 20.5 sacks, creating a durable defensive return from the transaction. Both clubs received contributors, but Johnson's six seasons and 67 starts produced substantially more value for Washington than Cooper produced for Pittsburgh. That outcome supports an A- grade for Washington Commanders.
Dallas moved from No. 21 to No. 17 in the 1990 draft and selected Emmitt Smith, who became the NFL's all-time leading rusher, league MVP and a central offensive figure on three Super Bowl championship teams. Pittsburgh used the return on tight end Eric Green and defensive lineman Craig Veasey. Green became a two-time Pro Bowler, giving the Steelers meaningful value despite Smith's extraordinary Dallas career.
Pittsburgh Steelers
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.
The May 25, 1988 entry reflects the reversal of Indianapolis' earlier deal for Ken Woodard. The Colts had agreed to send Pittsburgh a conditional 1989 twelfth-round pick, but Woodard failed his physical and the transaction was negated. Woodard returned to the Steelers and the conditional pick was never exercised, leaving neither franchise with meaningful lasting value from the aborted exchange.
San Diego acquired Mark Malone while searching for a veteran successor to Dan Fouts. Malone started eight games in 1988 and threw for 1,580 yards, six touchdowns and 13 interceptions before the Chargers moved on the following year. The price was only an eighth-rounder and an untriggered condition, so the downside was limited, but the acquisition did not solve the quarterback problem.
Kansas City sent quarterback Todd Blackledge to Pittsburgh for the 96th pick in the 1988 draft, ending a disappointing tenure for the former No. 7 overall selection. The Chiefs used the pick on J.R. Ambrose, who did not become a significant NFL player, but they still recovered draft capital for a quarterback whose starting opportunity had largely disappeared. That gives Kansas City only a narrow edge.
Pittsburgh traded safety Rick Woods to Tampa Bay on September 1, 1987 for the Buccaneers' 1988 tenth-round selection. The pick became No. 252, John Jackson. Tampa Bay received immediate secondary depth, while Pittsburgh converted Woods into a later selection that produced a long-term offensive lineman. That durable return gives the Steelers a clear advantage from a modest-cost transaction.
Denver Broncos received 1988 tenth round pick (#268-Channing Williams) in the 1987-08-27 exchange involving Pittsburgh Steelers. Denver used the acquired tenth-round pick on Channing Williams, but Williams never appeared in an NFL regular-season game for the Broncos. That realized return supports a D grade for Denver Broncos. The overall verdict is Pittsburgh Steelers Win, with the grade based on direct value created from this transaction.
Pittsburgh Steelers received 1987 sixth round pick (#141-Tim Johnson) from Tampa Bay Buccaneers. The acquired sixth-round choice became Tim Johnson, who started 26 games in 1988 and 1989 and recorded 8.5 sacks across those two seasons. That realized return supports a B grade for Pittsburgh Steelers. The final verdict is Pittsburgh Steelers Win, based on the regular-season service and draft value each club actually received after the exchange.
Pittsburgh acquired veteran tackle Steve August from Seattle on October 9, 1984 for a 1985 fifth-round pick, No. 128 overall. August played only five games with one start for the Steelers before his career ended. Seattle used the pick on Arnold Brown, who also produced little NFL value. Neither side converted the transaction into a meaningful long-term contribution.
Pittsburgh sent Greg Hawthorne to New England and received the 1985 ninth-round pick used on Andre Harris. Neither side produced a major long-term payoff, but the Steelers retained a controlled draft asset and realized the slightly better overall return. That small advantage supports a C+ grade for Pittsburgh rather than treating a low-impact exchange as a decisive win.
Pittsburgh Steelers received 1985 fifth round pick (#136-Cam Jacobs), while Washington Commanders received Rick Donnalley. Washington acquired offensive lineman Rick Donnalley, who played 28 games with 20 starts for Washington in 1984 and 1985. Pittsburgh received the 1985 fifth-round pick used on linebacker Cam Jacobs, but Jacobs did not provide regular-season service to the Steelers. That outcome supports a C grade for Pittsburgh Steelers, a B for Washington Commanders, and a Washington Commanders Win verdict.
Pittsburgh Steelers received Ray Snell, while Tampa Bay Buccaneers received Steve Courson. Tampa Bay acquired guard Steve Courson, who played all 30 games across the 1984 and 1985 seasons for the Buccaneers. Pittsburgh received Ray Snell, who appeared in 18 games with six starts before leaving the club, giving Tampa Bay the stronger realized veteran return. That outcome supports a C+ grade for Pittsburgh Steelers, a B for Tampa Bay Buccaneers, and a Tampa Bay Buccaneers Win verdict.
Miami traded quarterback David Woodley to Pittsburgh on February 21, 1984 for a 1984 third-round pick, No. 79 overall. Woodley started 13 games across 1984 and 1985 for the Steelers and provided useful quarterback depth. Miami later used No. 79 as part of its move up for Jackie Shipp. Both clubs turned the transaction into meaningful, though not franchise-defining, value.
Pittsburgh traded cornerback Anthony Washington to Washington on August 17, 1983 for Washington's 1984 fourth-round pick, No. 111 overall. Pittsburgh used that selection on guard Terry Long, who played 105 games and started 89 over eight Steelers seasons. Washington received two full seasons from Anthony Washington, including five starts and five interceptions.
Pittsburgh Steelers received 1985 draft pick (undisclosed) from Washington Redskins/Commanders, while Washington Redskins/Commanders received Bo Metcalf in the 1983-08-09 deal. Bo Metcalf did not produce on-field value for Washington, while Pittsburgh received a future 1985 draft choice, so hindsight favors the Steelers despite the pick's undisclosed identity. The final grades are B- for Pittsburgh Steelers and D+ for Washington Redskins/Commanders, producing a verdict of Pittsburgh Steelers Win.
Indianapolis acquired linebacker Zack Valentine from Pittsburgh on August 31, 1982 for a conditional 1983 twelfth-round pick. Pittsburgh's own historical trade record states that the condition was not met, so no selection was exercised. The Colts therefore obtained Valentine without ultimately surrendering draft capital, while the Steelers created only a contingent chance of receiving a late pick.
Denver acquired veteran cornerback J.T. Thomas from Pittsburgh in August 1982. Thomas appeared in nine games for the Broncos, made one start, and recorded one interception, providing some short-term defensive depth without becoming a major long-term piece. The C grade reflects that limited contribution and matches Pittsburgh's similarly modest outcome from the draft choice it received.
New Orleans acquired linebacker Dennis Winston from Pittsburgh during the 1982 draft for the sixth-round pick used on Craig Bingham. Winston became an immediate Saints starter, making 42 starts in 43 games from 1982 through early 1985 and intercepting seven passes during that span. Bingham appeared in 29 games for Pittsburgh from 1982 through 1984 with one start. The Saints received substantially more impact from the exchange.
Pittsburgh traded veteran defensive lineman Steve Furness to Tampa Bay on August 18, 1981 for an undisclosed future draft choice. Contemporary UPI transaction reports and Steelers history confirm the move. Tampa Bay released Furness before the regular season, and no exercised downstream Pittsburgh selection is identified in the reviewed record, leaving the deal with no realized regular-season return on either side.
Pittsburgh sent quarterback Mike Kruczek to Washington and received two future draft choices: the 1982 seventh-round pick used on Edmund Nelson and the 1983 fifth-round pick used on Gregg Garrity. The delayed compensation eventually gave the Steelers more durable roster value than the player they moved. That two-pick return supports a B- grade for Pittsburgh.
Pittsburgh traded defensive end Willie Fry to San Francisco during the 1980 draft for the 49ers' twelfth-round pick, No. 306, which the Steelers used on Texas defensive back Charles Vaclavik. Fry failed San Francisco's physical and was returned to Pittsburgh, while the 49ers received Pittsburgh's 1981 twelfth-round pick as compensation. Neither resulting draftee produced an NFL regular-season game.
Pittsburgh Steelers received 1980 twelfth round pick (#306-Charles Vaclavik) in the 1980-04-30 exchange with San Francisco 49ers, giving up Willie Fry. Pittsburgh initially received San Francisco's 1980 twelfth-round pick, later used at No. 306 on Charles Vaclavik. That return supports a C grade for Pittsburgh Steelers. The final verdict is Even Trade, based on the football value tied directly to the assets in this deal.
Pittsburgh Steelers
Pittsburgh received San Francisco's 1980 tenth-round pick and used No. 250 on Woodrow Wilson. The selection did not produce comparable regular-season value for the Steelers. Tony Dungy, meanwhile, played 15 games and started seven for San Francisco before becoming part of another trade, leaving Pittsburgh with the weaker return and a D+.
Pittsburgh reacquired running back Alvin Maxson from Chicago on September 5, 1978 for unspecified past considerations. The transaction was a waiver-workaround arrangement: Chicago had signed Maxson days earlier and sent him back to Pittsburgh before he ever traveled to join the Bears.
San Diego Chargers received Glen Edwards in the 1978-08-22 exchange with Pittsburgh Steelers, giving up 1979 sixth round pick (#157-Bill Murrell). San Diego acquired veteran safety Glen Edwards, who joined the Chargers immediately after the August 1978 trade. That return supports a B- grade for San Diego Chargers. The final verdict is Los Angeles/San Diego Chargers Win, based on the football value tied directly to the assets in this deal.
New England Patriots acquired Dave Pureifory from Pittsburgh in August 1978 and surrendered the 1979 sixth-round selection that became Dwayne Woodruff. Pureifory did not provide meaningful Patriots regular-season value after the move, while the pick became a major long-term Steelers contributor. That enormous realized gap leaves New England with an F despite the seemingly modest original price.
Philadelphia Eagles received Rick Engles. Rick Engles appeared in six games for Philadelphia after the trade. The contribution was modest, but it was still the only direct regular-season value generated by either side of the exchange. Compared with Pittsburgh Steelers' return, the result supports a C grade and fits the Philadelphia Eagles Win verdict.
Detroit Lions received Jimmy Allen, while Pittsburgh Steelers received a 1979 fourth-round pick that became No. 86 Russell Davis. Allen became a 58-game starter with 24 interceptions for Detroit, far outpacing the value Pittsburgh received from fourth-round pick Russell Davis. The hindsight grades are A- for Detroit Lions and C- for Pittsburgh Steelers, producing a Detroit Lions Win verdict.
Pittsburgh Steelers received 1978 tenth round pick (#276-Tom Jurich) and 1978 eleventh round pick (#279-Nat Terry) from Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the 1978-05-03 exchange. Tampa Bay released Ernie Holmes before the 1978 regular season, while Nat Terry appeared in six Steelers games and returned punts; Tom Jurich never played for Pittsburgh. Measured by what Pittsburgh Steelers actually realized after the deal, the return supports a C+ grade and represents the stronger realized return. The overall judgment is Pittsburgh Steelers Win.
Pittsburgh acquired Dave Pureifory from Green Bay for a 1978 fifth-round pick that became No. 128 Willie Wilder. Pureifory never played for Pittsburgh but was later flipped for a sixth-round pick; Wilder never became a Green Bay regular. In hindsight, the grades are C for Green Bay Packers and C+ for Pittsburgh Steelers, producing a Pittsburgh Steelers Win verdict. The modest scoring reflects the limited scale of the transaction.
The Giants acquired center Jim Clack and wide receiver Ernie Pough from Pittsburgh on April 17, 1978 for tackle John Hicks. Clack immediately became New York's starting center and started 48 consecutive games over the next three seasons.
Buffalo Bills and Pittsburgh Steelers completed this exchange on 1977-09-20. Buffalo Bills received Ron Schock, while Pittsburgh Steelers received Brian Spencer. The historical sources agree on the core package and transaction identity. In hindsight, With the package and date well established, the result comes down to realized production. The returns were modest and reasonably comparable, supporting matching grades. The final grades are C for Buffalo Bills and C for Pittsburgh Steelers, producing a Even Trade verdict.
Arizona Cardinals received Marv Kellum, while Pittsburgh Steelers received 1978 eighth round pick (#208-Rick Moser). Pittsburgh traded linebacker Marv Kellum to St. That return earns a C+ grade for Arizona Cardinals, and the overall verdict is Pittsburgh Steelers Win. The grade stays proportional to the direct value each club realized from this exchange.
New York acquired veteran tackle Gordon Gravelle from Pittsburgh for a future second-round pick that became No. 35 Bob Kohrs in 1980. Gravelle started every game for the Giants in both 1977 and 1978, giving New York 30 immediate starts across those two seasons. Kohrs became a useful NFL linebacker, but the Giants received the stronger direct return.
Buffalo acquired wide receiver Bob Gaddis from Pittsburgh on September 6, 1976 for its 1977 tenth-round pick, No. 253. Gaddis appeared in two games for the Bills and contributed one six-yard punt return and one 16-yard kickoff return.
Pittsburgh received Seattle's 1977 twelfth-round pick, No. 310, which became Jimmy Stephens. The package does not include Ron Coder on the Steelers' side; Coder moved from Pittsburgh to Seattle. With only a very late draft choice coming back and no comparable long-term payoff from that selection, Pittsburgh's realized return was limited, supporting a D+ grade in this small transaction.
Kansas City Chiefs received Tommy Reamon in the exchange with Pittsburgh Steelers. Tommy Reamon gave Kansas City useful but short-lived production after the trade. Against the other side's return of 1977 fifth round pick (#121-Cliff Stoudt), that outcome supports a C+ grade. The transaction is ultimately judged as Pittsburgh Steelers Win, with the grade reflecting realized football value rather than the name or nominal value of the asset on the trade date.
Green Bay Packers received Bob Barber in the exchange with Pittsburgh Steelers. Bob Barber supplied Green Bay useful defensive seasons, so the Packers did receive meaningful value. Against the other side's return of 1977 fourth round pick (#93-Ted Petersen), that outcome supports a B grade. The transaction is ultimately judged as Pittsburgh Steelers Win, with the grade reflecting realized football value rather than the name or nominal value of the asset on the trade date.
Pittsburgh traded running back Charlie Davis to St. Louis for a 1976 sixth-round pick that became defensive lineman Gary Dunn. Dunn spent 12 seasons with the Steelers, played 146 games and made 105 starts, an exceptional return from pick No. 159. The Cardinals also received real value from Davis, who started 12 games in 1975 and remained with the club for multiple seasons. Pittsburgh wins, but St. Louis deserves meaningful credit.
Pittsburgh sent veteran receiver Ron Shanklin to Chicago for a 1976 second-round choice and a 1977 fourth-round choice. The Steelers used those selections on tackle Ray Pinney and running back Laverne Smith. Pinney became the prize, playing 125 games with 82 starts and starting in a Super Bowl victory, giving Pittsburgh a decisive long-term return.
Detroit Lions: Detroit received McMakin, but his Lions tenure was brief and did not create lasting value from the trade. The D+ grade reflects only value tied directly to this transaction, including production or draft value the club itself controlled. Against Pittsburgh Steelers, that supported return leads to the final verdict of Pittsburgh Steelers Win.
Pittsburgh sent running back Steve Davis to the Jets in 1975 for a future third-round choice that became No. 60 overall in the 1977 draft, defensive lineman Tom Beasley. Davis gave New York two productive seasons, including 418 rushing yards in 1976, but Beasley became a long-term Steelers contributor. Pittsburgh’s longer return earns the edge.
Baltimore acquired the NFL rights to tackle Ed George from Pittsburgh for 1976 second- and fourth-round selections. George gave the Colts 12 games and two starts in 1975, so Baltimore received real short-term help. Pittsburgh used the premium pick on quarterback Mike Kruczek, who went 6-0 as a rookie starter, making the Steelers’ return stronger overall.
New England Patriots received Craig Hanneman from Pittsburgh Steelers. Craig Hanneman appeared in 20 Patriots games across 1974 and 1975, giving New England useful defensive-line depth over two seasons. That realized return supports a B- grade for New England Patriots. The final verdict is New England Patriots Win, based on the regular-season service and draft value each club actually received after the exchange.
Green Bay acquired veteran guard Bruce Van Dyke. Pittsburgh received the 1976 third-round selection that became Ron Coder at No. 70, preserving meaningful draft value from a veteran the Steelers were willing to move. Van Dyke gave Green Bay an experienced lineman, so the Packers received real utility. Pittsburgh's ability to recover a third-round choice while maintaining its championship core gives the Steelers the stronger long-term side.
Kansas City Chiefs received Tom Keating in the exchange with Pittsburgh Steelers. Tom Keating immediately gave Kansas City substantial defensive-line playing time across the next two seasons. Against the other side's return of 1975 15th round pick (#371-Jim Thatcher), that outcome supports a B grade. The transaction is ultimately judged as Kansas City Chiefs Win, with the grade reflecting realized football value rather than the name or nominal value of the asset on the trade date.
New England Patriots received George Webster from Pittsburgh Steelers. George Webster started 25 Patriots games across 1974 and 1975 and remained with the club in 1976, providing substantial veteran linebacker value. That realized return supports a B+ grade for New England Patriots. The final verdict is New England Patriots Win, based on the regular-season service and draft value each club actually received after the exchange.
Kansas City acquired Barry Pearson and received three seasons of useful receiving production. Pearson played 36 Chiefs games from 1974 through 1976, started 18, and across 1974 and 1975 totaled 63 catches, 995 yards, and four touchdowns. For the cost of an eighth-round pick, that level of direct offensive service represents a strong return and clearly drives the verdict.
New York acquired rookie running back Doug Kotar from Pittsburgh on July 24, 1974 in a straight player-for-player trade for quarterback Leo Gasienica. Kotar became a seven-season Giants contributor, appearing in 90 games with 61 starts and producing 3,380 rushing yards, 1,022 receiving yards and 21 total offensive touchdowns.
Denver Broncos received John Rowser in the 1974-01-30 exchange with Pittsburgh Steelers. John Rowser became a three-season Denver starter and intercepted nine passes for the Broncos, giving Denver clear direct defensive value. The direct package is the basis for the hindsight grade, with later movement of an acquired selection treated separately. That supports Denver Broncos Win.
New England Patriots received Brian Stenger in the exchange with Pittsburgh Steelers. Brian Stenger appeared in ten Patriots games with two starts, giving New England a modest but tangible return. Against the other side's return of 1974 tenth round pick (#243-Jim Kregel), that outcome supports a C+ grade. The transaction is ultimately judged as New England Patriots Win, with the grade reflecting realized football value rather than the name or nominal value of the asset on the trade date.
Oakland acquired Warren Bankston, who became a six-season Raiders contributor and a Super Bowl champion. That sustained role gave the Raiders meaningful value from the veteran addition and supports a B- grade. The full package shows Pittsburgh received two draft choices rather than one, making the overall exchange much more balanced than a one-pick reading would suggest.
Pittsburgh traded safety Ralph Anderson to New England on Sept. 3, 1973 for the fourth-round pick that became No. 82 in the 1974 draft. The Steelers used it on John Stallworth, a future Hall of Fame receiver who caught 537 passes for 8,723 yards and helped win four Super Bowls. Anderson started 11 games for the Patriots in 1973, but his New England tenure lasted only that season.
Oakland sent veteran tackle Glen Ray Hines to Pittsburgh for 1974 third- and sixth-round picks. The Raiders used the third-rounder on Mark van Eeghen, who rushed for 5,907 yards in eight Oakland seasons and helped win two Super Bowls. Hines started all 14 games for Pittsburgh in 1973, so the Steelers received useful immediate value, but van Eeghen makes Oakland the decisive winner.
New England received Pittsburgh's 1974 tenth-round selection and ultimately also regained John Smith, who returned to the Patriots and became a long-term kicker for the franchise. That combination left New England with the stronger practical outcome from the 1973 move. The B grade reflects the retained compensation and Smith's later value, supporting a New England Patriots Win verdict.
New York Jets received Roger Bernhardt while Pittsburgh Steelers received Mike Haggard. New York received Roger Bernhardt in the 1973 exchange, but his later 1974 Jets season followed an intervening departure and a separate reacquisition. That later production should not be treated as uninterrupted value created by this original deal. That outcome supports a C- grade for New York Jets in this trade.
Oakland sent veteran defensive tackle Tom Keating to Pittsburgh on July 23, 1973, for the Steelers’ 1974 third-round pick, No. 75 overall. Pittsburgh got 12 games and four starts from Keating before he left after one season. Oakland used the pick on Mark van Eeghen, who became a two-time Super Bowl champion and one of the franchise’s most productive rushers.
Pittsburgh traded tight end Bob Adams to New England on May 16, 1973 for a conditional 1974 seventh- or eighth-round pick tied to Adams' playing time. The condition ultimately resolved to New England's seventh-round pick, No. 165, which Pittsburgh used on tackle Allen Sitterle. Adams gave the Patriots 25 regular-season games and 12 starts over 1973-74, while Sitterle never appeared in an NFL regular-season game.
Denver Broncos: Denver received Rick Sharp, who supplied one limited season and little lasting value for the Broncos. The D grade reflects only value tied directly to this transaction, including production or draft value the club itself controlled. Against Pittsburgh Steelers, that supported return leads to the final verdict of Pittsburgh Steelers Win.
Denver Broncos received Bobby Maples in the exchange with Pittsburgh Steelers. Bobby Maples gave Denver seven seasons of regular playing time after the trade, making the veteran acquisition a clear and durable football return. Against Pittsburgh Steelers' return of 1973 sixth round pick (#140-Ron Bell (a)), that result supports a A- grade. The transaction is judged as Denver Broncos Win, with the mark based on the football value that actually followed from the deal.
Pittsburgh acquired Ernie Holmes from New England for cash in August 1972 and turned a minor purchase into a core defensive contributor. Holmes played six seasons for the Steelers, became a regular starter on the Steel Curtain front and was part of the franchise’s first two Super Bowl championship teams. New England received only cash, making Pittsburgh the clear long-term winner.
New England Patriots received conditional 1973 sixth round pick (not conveyed), while Pittsburgh Steelers received Ron Gardin. New England sent Ron Gardin to Pittsburgh with a conditional 1973 sixth-round return attached. The condition depended on Gardin making Pittsburgh's roster and was not met, so the pick was never conveyed. The supported history provides enough detail to judge the exchange without overstating uncertain downstream information. New England Patriots earns a D grade, and the overall verdict is Even Trade.
New York Jets received Chuck Hinton. Chuck Hinton provided the clearer post-trade NFL contribution for New York, remaining an active defensive lineman after the exchange and giving the Jets useful veteran service. That result supports a B grade for New York Jets. The final verdict is New York Jets Win, based on the documented service, durability, and value each club actually obtained from this exchange.
Baltimore acquired linebacker Marty Schottenheimer from Pittsburgh on August 27, 1971 for a conditional 1972 tenth-round draft choice. The Colts' official trade history marks the choice with the notation for a transaction canceled by an unmet condition. Schottenheimer never appeared in a regular-season game for Baltimore, so the Colts received only preseason roster rights while retaining the conditional pick.
New England acquired Ara Person, but Person did not become a Patriots regular-season contributor and later appeared only briefly for another club. The direct return therefore created almost no lasting New England value. That outcome looks especially poor beside Jim Clack's long Steelers tenure, making the Patriots the clear losing side of this player-for-player exchange.
Pittsburgh traded guard Larry Gagner to New York on July 31, 1971 for two 1972 draft choices: the Giants' fourth-round pick, No. 80 Lorenzo Brinkley, and seventh-round pick, No. 159 Joe Colquitt. Neither Brinkley nor Colquitt appeared in an NFL regular-season game, so the Steelers realized no on-field production from either selection despite receiving two draft assets.
Pittsburgh received Houston's 1972 15th-round choice, No. 368, and used it on John Hulecki in exchange for Worthy McClure. Hulecki did not produce an NFL regular-season return for the Steelers. McClure likewise failed to establish meaningful NFL value for Houston, leaving Pittsburgh without enough realized benefit to separate itself from the other side.
New England Patriots received Mike Haggerty in the 1971-07-08 exchange with Pittsburgh Steelers. New England's official historical trade records records the July 8, 1971 acquisition of tackle Mike Haggerty from Pittsburgh for linebacker Marty Schottenheimer and the Patriots' 1972 fourteenth-round choice. Schottenheimer was subsequently moved by Pittsburgh to Baltimore for another 1972 selection, creating additional draft value, while Haggerty gave New England one season. The documented result supports a C grade for New England Patriots. The overall verdict is Pittsburgh Steelers Win, based on realized value rather than hypothetical upside.
San Diego Chargers and Pittsburgh Steelers exchanged J.R. Wilburn for Brad Hubbert. Hubbert had been productive for San Diego before the trade, totaling 1,270 rushing yards in his career, but his last NFL season was 1970. Because hindsight grading focuses on what each new club actually received, prior accomplishments do not create post-trade value. In hindsight, neither side created a meaningful advantage, so the exchange remains even after weighing actual post-trade service rather than the names or nominal asset types involved.
New Orleans reacquired running back Don McCall from Pittsburgh on December 10, 1970, for a 1971 fifth-round draft choice. McCall played the Saints' final two games, starting one and rushing for 63 yards with a touchdown. Multiple historical summaries compete for the exact No. 106 pick lineage, so Pittsburgh receives credit for the fifth-round asset without assigning Larry Brown exclusively to this deal.
Minnesota acquired quarterback Kent Nix from Pittsburgh on September 2, 1970 for a 1971 fifth-round selection. Nix never appeared in a regular-season game for the Vikings and was released before later joining Chicago. Pittsburgh used the acquired pick on Fred Brister at No. 128, but Brister also never appeared in an NFL regular-season game, leaving both returns effectively empty.
New Orleans acquired veteran running back Earl Gros from Pittsburgh on September 1, 1970, for 1971 fifth- and eighth-round draft choices. The eighth-rounder is traceable to No. 184, Larry Crowe, while historical summaries also associate Pittsburgh with the Saints' fifth-round slot. Gros barely contributed in New Orleans, making the draft-capital return far more valuable for Pittsburgh.
Miami Dolphins received Bob DeMarco in the exchange with Pittsburgh Steelers. The historical record shows how the player service and draft value developed after the deal, with the comparison favoring Pittsburgh Steelers. That result supports a B- for Miami Dolphins. The grade reflects the less valuable realized return and keeps the judgment proportional to the documented value produced by this transaction.
Pittsburgh sent star receiver Roy Jefferson to Baltimore for Willie Richardson and a 1971 fourth-round pick. Richardson never played a regular-season game for the Steelers and was soon moved again, but the fourth-rounder became Dwight White, a founding member of the Steel Curtain and four-time Super Bowl champion. Jefferson helped Baltimore win Super Bowl V, so the Colts received real championship value even though Pittsburgh won the longer arc.
Denver acquired Paul Martha and Sid Williams from Pittsburgh in June 1970, sending Walter Highsmith, Wallace Dickey and a 1971 draft choice whose specific selection cannot be identified from the surviving record. Martha immediately gave Denver meaningful secondary production, including six interceptions in 1970. That direct impact gives the Broncos a narrow edge despite the unresolved identity of the future pick.
Baltimore sent Preston Pearson and Ocie Austin to Pittsburgh for linebacker Ray May and the 1971 twelfth-round pick later used on Bob Wuensch. May gave the Colts veteran depth and the pick added another roster opportunity, but neither return matched Pearson's later value. Pearson became a starting back, returner and versatile offensive piece during Pittsburgh's rise into a championship club.
Pittsburgh acquired linebacker Henry Davis and running back John "Frenchy" Fuqua from New York for quarterback Dick Shiner on April 30, 1970. Davis became Pittsburgh's starting middle linebacker in 1972-73 and earned a Pro Bowl selection, while Fuqua immediately led the Steelers in rushing in 1970 and 1971 and remained part of the offense through the club's rise into contention.
Green Bay Packers received John Hilton, while Pittsburgh Steelers received John Rowser. John Hilton's stay in Green Bay was much shorter. The Packers received some value, but it did not approach the multi-season starting contribution Rowser delivered for Pittsburgh. In hindsight, that direct return supports a C grade for Green Bay Packers. The grade reflects realized football value from this exchange rather than reputation alone.
Los Angeles Chargers received Don Alley. Don Alley did not produce a comparable Chargers regular-season return after San Diego sent veteran linebacker Chuck Allen to Pittsburgh. That outcome supports a D grade because the return is measured by the direct football value Los Angeles Chargers actually received after the deal, compared with the asset sent the other way.
Pittsburgh Steelers
New Orleans acquired Mike Taylor and Marv Woodson from Pittsburgh in November 1969, with a future draft choice going to the Steelers. Woodson started five games for the Saints after the move, while Taylor appeared briefly. Historical draft summaries disagree about whether Pittsburgh's choice should be tied to the 1971 No. 106 slot, so the safest verdict gives New Orleans only a narrow edge.
John Campbell moved from Pittsburgh to Baltimore on November 1, 1969, with historical transaction listings showing cash going to the Steelers while noting the move may have operated through waivers. Campbell gave the Colts usable roster depth, whereas Pittsburgh's visible return ended with the cash consideration. Baltimore therefore earns a narrow win with appropriately cautious confidence.
New York acquired defensive tackle Frank Parker from Pittsburgh on September 16, 1969 for a 1970 fourth-round pick. Parker started all eight games he played for the Giants before his December release, giving New York a short but real stretch of defensive-line value.
New Orleans acquired Don Shy and Ken Kortas from Pittsburgh for running back Don McCall shortly before the 1969 season. Neither incoming player developed into a major long-term Saints piece, so the two-player quantity did not translate into much durable value. McCall, meanwhile, gave Pittsburgh identifiable rushing and return production during his season with the Steelers before later returning to New Orleans.
Washington purchased defensive back Bob Wade from Pittsburgh on August 28, 1969. Wade appeared in 13 games for Washington that season, while the Steelers received cash rather than a football asset that can be traced forward. The contribution was modest and short-lived, but Washington did receive usable depth for the purchase price, supporting a narrow Redskins win rather than a dramatic result.
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 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 acquired linebacker Wally Hilgenberg from Pittsburgh in September 1968 for cash. Hilgenberg spent 12 seasons with the Vikings, started 117 regular-season games and became a core member of four Super Bowl teams. The Steelers' side was cash rather than a player or draft asset, while Minnesota received a durable defensive contributor whose long tenure became the transaction's defining football value.
Green Bay received the 1969 sixth-round pick used on Ron Jones after sending defensive back Dick Capp to Pittsburgh. The selection did not create comparable Packers value, while Capp at least supplied Pittsburgh with a full season of roster availability. The pick preserved some future flexibility for Green Bay, but its realized football return was limited, supporting a D+ grade for the Packers.
Atlanta Falcons received cash in the exchange with Pittsburgh Steelers. Atlanta received cash for Snipes. That was a modest return, but it was tangible value from a player Pittsburgh would release only eleven days later. Against Pittsburgh Steelers' return of Ennis Snipes / Eugene Snipes? / Gene Snipes?, that result supports a C grade. The transaction is judged as Atlanta Falcons Win, with the mark based on the football value that actually followed from the deal.
Pittsburgh acquired linebacker Steve Jackson from Washington for cash on August 16, 1968. Jackson had played 25 games for Washington in 1966-67 and recorded no regular-season service for Pittsburgh after the move. In hindsight, the grades are D+ for Pittsburgh Steelers and C+ for Washington, producing a Washington Win verdict. The modest scoring reflects the limited scale of the transaction.
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.
Cleveland acquired quarterback Bill Nelsen and Jim Bradshaw from Pittsburgh for Dick Shiner, Frank Parker and future draft consideration strongly linked to 1969 second-round No. 42 Warren Bankston. Nelsen immediately became a successful Browns starter and earned a 1969 Pro Bowl selection, giving Cleveland the transaction's clearest impact despite Pittsburgh receiving multiple useful assets.
Baltimore moved Bob Wade to Pittsburgh with compensation conditioned on whether Wade made the Steelers roster. The surviving transaction record confirms the conditional 1969 draft consideration but does not securely identify a downstream selection that can be credited to the Colts. Without a documented pick outcome or a major player return, Baltimore's side remains modest and uncertain.
Pittsburgh acquired Bob Wade from Baltimore for Ed Brown, with a later condition adding a 1969 draft pick if Wade made the Steelers roster. Wade appeared in all 14 games and started 11 in 1968, so the condition was met, although the exact resulting selection remains unidentified. With useful but limited returns on both sides, the exchange stays an even C/C trade.
Pittsburgh acquired Wally Hilgenberg from Detroit for John Baker on January 28, 1968. Hilgenberg never played for Pittsburgh, while Baker appeared for Detroit in 1968, leaving Detroit with the only direct on-field return. In hindsight, the grades are B- for Detroit Lions and D+ for Pittsburgh Steelers, producing a Detroit Lions Win verdict. The modest scoring reflects the limited scale of the transaction.
Atlanta Falcons received 1968 sixth round pick (#147-Joe Wynns). Atlanta received the No. 147 choice used on Joe Wynns, who did not establish an NFL playing career. Pittsburgh's edge is modest because Compton was not a major long-term piece, but Atlanta's pick produced essentially no pro return. That outcome supports a D+ grade for Atlanta Falcons.
Minnesota acquired veteran defensive back Brady Keys from Pittsburgh for its 1968 third-round pick, No. 61. Keys provided the Vikings with short-term help, but his stay did not produce the same lasting value Pittsburgh received from the draft asset. The Steelers used the selection on Jon Henderson, who contributed across multiple NFL seasons after entering the league.
Green Bay Packers received 1968 fourth round pick (#92-Brendan McCarthy), while Pittsburgh Steelers received Dick Arndt. Pittsburgh received Dick Arndt and Green Bay received the 1968 fourth-round choice used at No. 92 on Brendan McCarthy. Arndt played 34 games for Pittsburgh, while McCarthy did not deliver regular-season value for Green Bay, creating a clear Steelers edge. Green Bay Packers earns a D+ grade, and the overall verdict is Pittsburgh Steelers Win.
Pittsburgh and Chicago swapped Charlie Bivins and Dan James on August 28, 1967. Neither veteran created meaningful long-term value for his new club. Bivins appeared in only two games for Pittsburgh before finishing the season with Buffalo, while James played two games for Chicago and then retired. With the package confirmed but both returns extremely short-lived, an even C/C result fits the outcome.
Detroit Lions received Roger Pillath in the 1967-08-23 exchange with Pittsburgh Steelers. Pillath has no recorded Detroit regular-season service after the exchange, leaving the Lions without a meaningful on-field return. Against Pittsburgh Steelers' return of Jerry Mazzanti, that outcome supports a D+ grade. The transaction is judged Pittsburgh Steelers Win, with the mark tied to the football value that actually followed from the deal.
Cleveland sent John Brown to Pittsburgh and received 1968 third- and tenth-round selections, used on Harry Olszewski and James Greer. Neither draft choice produced value comparable to Brown's Pittsburgh career. The Browns did recover two assets for the player, but the realized return remained limited while Brown became a regular starter for the Steelers.
Green Bay sent quarterback Kent Nix to Pittsburgh and received the 1968 fifth-round choice that became No. 120 Steve Duich. The draft return did not create value comparable to Nix's three seasons of quarterback service for the Steelers. Green Bay still recovered a real draft asset, which keeps the result from being lopsided, but the Packers realized the smaller football return.
New Orleans acquired guard Eli Strand from Pittsburgh for cash on July 21, 1967. Strand played all 14 games for the expansion Saints in 1967 and started eight, providing immediate value after leaving Pittsburgh. In hindsight, the grades are B for New Orleans Saints and C for Pittsburgh Steelers, producing a New Orleans Saints Win verdict. The modest scoring reflects the limited scale of the transaction.
Los Angeles acquired veteran defensive back Willie Daniel from Pittsburgh for a draft choice whose exact identity is disputed in historical records, most likely a 1968 third-rounder. Daniel immediately became a useful Rams defender, appearing in 38 regular-season games across three seasons and intercepting three passes. Pittsburgh gained draft capital, but the uncertain downstream identity limits the return that can be credited confidently.
Philadelphia acquired Gary Ballman from Pittsburgh and received several productive seasons from the veteran receiver. Ballman gave the Eagles legitimate value and remained a useful offensive piece after the trade. Pittsburgh, however, received Earl Gros, Bruce Van Dyke, and the 1967 third-round pick used on Rockne Freitas, creating a broader package with more long-term value.
Minnesota acquired linebacker Dave Tobey from Pittsburgh for the 1967 eighth-round selection that became No. 192 overall. Tobey appeared in 16 games with two starts for the Vikings across the 1966 and 1967 seasons. His contribution was modest but tangible, giving Minnesota two seasons of linebacker depth from a late-round draft choice.
Green Bay Packers received 1967 fifth round pick (#116-Dwight Hood) in the exchange with Pittsburgh Steelers. The historical record shows how the player service and draft value developed after the deal, with the comparison favoring Pittsburgh Steelers. That result supports a D for Green Bay Packers. The grade reflects the less valuable realized return and keeps the judgment proportional to the documented value produced by this transaction.
Los Angeles Rams received Bob Nichols, while Pittsburgh Steelers received Roger Pillath. Bob Nichols played for Los Angeles after the exchange, giving the Rams the more useful realized return from the deal. In hindsight, that direct return supports a C+ grade for Los Angeles Rams. The grade reflects realized football value from this exchange rather than reputation alone.
Minnesota acquired veteran back Phil King from Pittsburgh for its 1967 sixth-round pick. King gave the Vikings one season of depth, but the move did not create significant long-term value. Pittsburgh received the No. 140 selection and used it on Mike Haggerty, giving the Steelers a future roster opportunity in exchange for a veteran who was nearing the end of his NFL career.
Pittsburgh sent its 1967 first-round pick to Green Bay for defensive lineman Lloyd Voss and tight end Tony Jeter. The Packers used the ninth overall selection on center Bob Hyland, who played four seasons in Green Bay but never became a long-term fixture there. Voss developed into a multi-year starter for Pittsburgh, while Jeter contributed only briefly. Because Voss supplied the strongest sustained team-specific value, the Steelers win the exchange.
Atlanta Falcons received 1967 sixth round pick (#142-Virgil Carter) in the exchange with Pittsburgh Steelers. The historical record shows how the player service and draft value developed after the deal, with the comparison favoring Pittsburgh Steelers. That result supports a C for Atlanta Falcons. The grade reflects the less valuable realized return and keeps the judgment proportional to the documented value produced by this transaction.
On 1966-07-08, Los Angeles Rams received Myron Pottios, while Pittsburgh Steelers received draft pick (selection not identified). The hindsight verdict is Los Angeles/Cleveland/St. Louis Rams Win, with Los Angeles Rams graded B and Pittsburgh Steelers graded C+. The evaluation follows the documented consideration and the football value that can be traced from it, while keeping unverified downstream pick identities or conditional outcomes out of the final judgment.
Pittsburgh acquired rookie Steve Smith from San Francisco in 1966 for a future third-round choice. Smith appeared in only three games for the Steelers. San Francisco used Pittsburgh's 1967 third-round pick, No. 62, on linebacker Frank Nunley, who played 137 games with 91 starts for the 49ers.
Baltimore sent Jim Carter to Pittsburgh and received the 1967 twelfth-round choice that became No. 298 Preston Pearson. Pearson played three seasons for the Colts before continuing a long 176-game NFL career, giving Baltimore meaningful value from an extremely late selection. Carter did not provide Pittsburgh with a comparable lasting return, so the Colts converted modest draft compensation into the stronger outcome.
Pittsburgh acquired linebacker John Campbell from Baltimore on September 29, 1965, for veteran center Buzz Nutter. Campbell immediately started all 14 games for the Steelers and remained a substantial starter through 1968, while Nutter played 13 games with six starts in his final NFL season. The longevity gap gives Pittsburgh the stronger return from a straightforward veteran swap.
Pittsburgh acquired linebacker Rod Breedlove from Washington and received three seasons of useful service. Breedlove appeared in 39 games for the Steelers from 1965 through 1967, giving the defense dependable depth and meaningful playing time. Washington's seventh-round return did not create comparable regular-season value, so Pittsburgh turned a low-cost move into the stronger football outcome and merits a B grade.
Dallas Cowboys received 1966 twelfth round pick (#173-Les Shy). The locked Wave 209 research supports the B+ grade after comparing the direct production and draft value attributable to this transaction. The evaluation excludes unrelated later moves and unsupported assumptions. Against Pittsburgh Steelers, that documented return supports the final verdict of Dallas Cowboys Win.
Pittsburgh acquired rookie punter Frank Lambert from the New York Giants on September 1, 1965 for an undisclosed draft choice. Lambert immediately became Pittsburgh's punter and appeared in all 14 regular-season games in both 1965 and 1966. The exact Giants draft return is not identified in the reviewed public record, so no downstream selection is assigned.
Los Angeles received Frank Molden after sending Ken Henson and Bob Hohn to Pittsburgh. Molden's Rams tenure was brief and did not match the multi-season contribution Hohn later supplied for the Steelers. The C+ grade recognizes that Los Angeles did receive an NFL player in the exchange, but the realized return was clearly lighter than Pittsburgh's combined veteran value.
Pittsburgh acquired John Hilton and Pat Batten from Detroit on August 23, 1965 for the Steelers' 1966 fifth-round selection, No. 67. Hilton became the real prize, playing five seasons for Pittsburgh and producing 108 receptions for 1,494 yards and 10 touchdowns from 1965 through 1969. Batten was released before the regular season.
Los Angeles Rams received Joe Krupa in the exchange with Pittsburgh Steelers. Joe Krupa had been a regular Pittsburgh starter before the move, but his Rams tenure did not produce a durable return. Los Angeles added an experienced defensive tackle, yet the acquisition did not develop into a meaningful long-term win. In hindsight, that direct outcome supports a C grade for Los Angeles Rams. The judgment focuses on what this transaction itself produced rather than unrelated later moves.
Los Angeles acquired Ed Holler, but he never appeared in a Rams regular-season game. The player-for-player return therefore produced no on-field value for the Rams. The grade remains tied to documented value for the acquiring club, without assigning credit for unresolved or hypothetical downstream consideration.
Pittsburgh acquired Ken Kortas from the St. Louis Cardinals for quarterback Terry Nofsinger on February 16, 1965. Kortas remained with the Steelers through 1968 and became a regular defensive contributor, while Nofsinger produced a more limited Cardinals return. Four seasons of useful Pittsburgh service make the Steelers the clear winner in hindsight.
Baltimore acquired kicker-defensive end Lou Michaels and Pittsburgh's 1965 third-round pick for linebacker Bill Saul and defensive back Marv Woodson. Player transaction records place the completed trade on September 8, 1964, after Michaels missed Pittsburgh's final preseason game. Michaels became Baltimore's kicker for six seasons and the draft choice became Glenn Ressler, while Saul developed into a useful Steelers starter. The Colts received the stronger combined return.
Pittsburgh purchased Ray Mansfield from Philadelphia in September 1964 and turned a cash transaction into a 13-season starting-center run. Mansfield appeared in 182 consecutive regular-season games for the Steelers and started on the Super Bowl IX and X championship teams. Philadelphia received cash, but Pittsburgh captured exceptional long-term value and wins this deal decisively.
Chicago sent Chuck Logan to Pittsburgh and received the 1966 fourth-round pick that became No. 51 Randy Jackson. Jackson developed into an eight-year Bears offensive lineman, appearing in 105 games and starting 94. Logan gave Pittsburgh one season, one catch, and seven receiving yards. Turning a lightly productive player into a long-term starter makes this one of the clearest wins in the batch.
Pittsburgh received what contemporary reporting and transaction ledgers describe as a 1964 sixth-round draft choice. Because the transaction occurred on August 28, after the 1964 NFL draft, the wording is chronologically unusual, and the exact selection or rights mechanism has not been identified. No downstream player outcome can be assigned without inventing evidence that the surviving record does not supply.
Pittsburgh acquired Phil King from New York on August 24, 1964. Contemporary and team records identify the Giants' return as Pittsburgh's 1965 third-round choice, No. 31 overall, which New York used on fullback Chuck Mercein. King played only eight games for the Steelers, rushing 26 times for 71 yards and one touchdown while adding four catches for 32 yards and another score. He moved on after the season, making Pittsburgh's return brief.
Pittsburgh acquired defensive tackle Urban Henry from Green Bay on August 24, 1964 for a 1965 draft choice. Henry played 10 games with eight starts for the Steelers that season, producing two Approximate Value before his NFL career ended.
Detroit Lions received 1965 fourth round pick (#46-Tommy Myers) in the exchange with Pittsburgh Steelers. The historical record shows how the player service and draft value developed after the deal, with the comparison favoring Pittsburgh Steelers. That result supports a D for Detroit Lions. The grade reflects the less valuable realized return and keeps the judgment proportional to the documented value produced by this transaction.
Philadelphia received Red Mack and Glenn Glass. Mack contributed as a receiver, so the Eagles did receive useful value, but the combined Pittsburgh return of Peaks and Harrison was deeper and more productive, leaving Philadelphia behind without making the deal one-sided. The C+ grade reflects that realized football value and the complete supported package, while the overall verdict is Pittsburgh Steelers Win.
Dallas acquired Buddy Dial from Pittsburgh in the agreement announced December 18, 1963, sending the Steelers the rights to first-round pick Scott Appleton. Dial produced 713 receiving yards for the Cowboys, giving Dallas a tangible offensive return. Appleton never played for Pittsburgh, so the Cowboys clearly received more value even though the transaction was formally completed after Appleton's college season formally concluded.
Chicago sent Pittsburgh 1964 second- and fourth-round selections for the Steelers' 1965 first-round pick. Pittsburgh used its two choices on Jim Kelly and Ben McGee, with McGee becoming a two-time Pro Bowler and nine-season Steeler. Chicago's acquired first-rounder landed third overall and became Dick Butkus, whose Hall of Fame career gave the Bears the exchange's defining player.
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.
Chicago Bears received 1964 sixth round pick (#84-Jimmy Jones) in the exchange with Pittsburgh Steelers. The sixth-round choice became No. 84 Jimmy Jones, who developed into a multi-year NFL contributor with substantially more Chicago starts and games than Anderson produced in Pittsburgh. Against Pittsburgh Steelers' return of Art Anderson (a), that result supports a B+ grade. The transaction is judged as Chicago Bears Win, with the mark based on the football value that actually followed from the deal.
Chicago Bears received Tom Bettis. The locked Wave 209 research supports the B+ grade after comparing the direct production and draft value attributable to this transaction. The evaluation excludes unrelated later moves and unsupported assumptions. Against Pittsburgh Steelers, that documented return supports the final verdict of Chicago Bears Win.
Philadelphia sold John Baker to Pittsburgh for cash during the 1962 season. Baker then became a durable Steelers defender, appearing across five Pittsburgh seasons and producing meaningful pass-rush value. The Eagles received only the cash consideration, so the long post-trade service makes Pittsburgh the clear hindsight winner without turning a minor acquisition into an oversized grade.
Chicago Bears received 1963 sixth round pick (#80-John Johnson (Howard)) in the exchange with Pittsburgh Steelers. Chicago used the acquired sixth-rounder on John Johnson, who became a six-season Bears defensive lineman and supplied far more sustained value. Against Pittsburgh Steelers' return of Ken Kirk, that outcome supports a B+ grade. The transaction is judged as Chicago Bears Win, with the mark based on the football value that actually followed from the deal.
Los Angeles Rams received Mike Henry in the exchange with Pittsburgh Steelers. Mike Henry did not provide the Rams with a comparable stretch of football value after the trade. His playing return was short, leaving Los Angeles with limited direct benefit from the exchange. In hindsight, that direct outcome supports a D+ grade for Los Angeles Rams. The judgment focuses on what this transaction itself produced rather than unrelated later moves.
Los Angeles sent George Strugar to Pittsburgh and received the 1963 fifth-round choice that became No. 67 Don Chuy. Chuy gave the Rams six seasons, 74 games, and 20 starts, turning a mid-round selection into durable line value. Strugar appeared in only one game for Pittsburgh before moving on, so the Rams realized a much stronger and longer-lasting return.
Pittsburgh acquired former star receiver Harlon Hill from Chicago for fourth-round picks in 1963 and 1964. Hill's peak had already passed; he caught only seven passes for 101 yards in seven games for the Steelers before finishing the 1962 season in Detroit. Chicago received two future selections, and the 1964 pick later became part of another Bears-Steelers deal tied to the 1965 first-round selection used on Dick Butkus. The direct trade strongly favored Chicago.
Pittsburgh acquired linebacker Tom Bettis from Green Bay on July 17, 1962 for 1963 third- and seventh-round choices that became Dennis Claridge and Olin Hill. Bettis immediately appeared in 11 games for the Steelers before finishing his career with Chicago. Claridge eventually played only one regular-season game for Green Bay, while Hill never appeared in the NFL. Pittsburgh realized the greater direct return.
Minnesota sent Ed Culpepper to Pittsburgh and received what the surviving transaction trail describes only as a high draft choice. The exact selection and eventual player tied to that return cannot be established confidently, so Minnesota's downstream value remains unresolved. The player movement itself is supportable, but the unidentified pick prevents a complete accounting of what the Vikings ultimately received.
Chicago and Pittsburgh completed two linked April 4, 1962 transactions involving the same 1963 first-round selection. Pittsburgh first returned that No. 11 choice to Chicago for Rudy Bukich and a tenth-rounder, then reacquired it along with a 1964 second-round pick for quarterback Ed Brown. Both quarterbacks later started for their new clubs, but Chicago’s added second-round asset gives the Bears a narrow win.
Chicago Bears received Bobby Joe Green in the exchange with Pittsburgh Steelers. Bobby Joe Green spent twelve seasons with the Bears and served as their primary punter through a long tenure that included Chicago's 1963 championship season. Against Pittsburgh Steelers' return of 1963 tenth round pick (#137-Ed Hoerster), that result supports a A grade. The transaction is judged as Chicago Bears Win, with the mark based on the football value that actually followed from the deal.
Cleveland acquired Charley Scales and received four seasons of useful backfield and special-teams service. Scales worked behind Jim Brown and provided depth rather than star production, but the Browns gained a real multi-year contributor from the transaction. That direct club value gives Cleveland a slight advantage over Pittsburgh's fifth-round asset, which was later moved again in a separate transaction.
Pittsburgh Steelers received Ray Lemek from Washington, giving up John Nisby. Pittsburgh received Ray Lemek in a direct veteran-for-veteran exchange. The available record supports a legitimate roster move but not a pronounced long-term advantage, leaving the Steelers at C. That return supports a C grade for Pittsburgh Steelers. The final verdict is Even Trade.
The legacy record lists Baltimore Colts receiving 1962 high draft pick (selection not identified) and Pittsburgh Steelers receiving John Sample / Johnny Sample, but part of that date, identity, or downstream attribution remains disputed in the surviving historical record. Johnny Sample clearly played for Pittsburgh beginning in 1961, while the Colts historical ledger associates his move with the 1963 second-round choice used on Butch Wilson. Surviving sources conflict sharply on the transaction date and therefore on the timing of that compensation. This verdict preserves the real player and
Baltimore traded defensive back Johnny Sample to Pittsburgh for the future second-round choice that became No. 24 overall in 1963, Butch Wilson. Sample immediately started all 14 games for the Steelers in 1961 and intercepted eight passes, then started six more games in 1962. Wilson gave Baltimore five seasons of role-player service, but Pittsburgh received the more impactful peak return.
Pittsburgh acquired tackle Charlie Bradshaw from Los Angeles on September 12, 1961, for the Steelers’ 1962 third-round pick, No. 33 overall. Bradshaw became a six-year Pittsburgh fixture, appearing in 82 games with 80 starts and earning Pro Bowl recognition in 1963 and 1964. The Rams used the pick on tackle John Cornett, who did not produce comparable NFL value. Pittsburgh turned a third-rounder into a long-term starting tackle.
Pittsburgh acquired receiver Bob “Bobby” Coronado from Chicago on August 18, 1961, for the Bears’ eventual 1962 second-round choice, No. 20 overall. Coronado gave the Steelers five games, two starts, three catches and 32 receiving yards. Chicago used the pick on tackle Clyde Brock, but waived him before the 1962 season; he never played a regular-season game for the Bears. Pittsburgh wins a low-impact deal.
Indianapolis Colts received Jimmy Orr, Joe DeLucis, and Dick Campbell in the 1961-07-20 exchange with Pittsburgh Steelers. Jimmy Orr became a long-term Baltimore receiving contributor, while Joe DeLucis and Dick Campbell added package depth. The direct package, rather than later movement of any acquired asset, is the basis for the hindsight judgment. Against what Indianapolis Colts surrendered, the result supports Even Trade.
Los Angeles/St. Louis Rams received Frank Varrichione, while Pittsburgh Steelers received Lou Michaels. Pittsburgh received Lou Michaels, who became a productive defensive end and kicker for three seasons, while the Rams received tackle Frank Varrichione, who started 56 games for Los Angeles from 1961 through 1965 and made the 1962 Pro Bowl. Both clubs received substantial veteran value. That outcome supports a B+ grade for Los Angeles/St. Louis Rams, a B+ for Pittsburgh Steelers, and a Even Trade verdict.
Baltimore acquired defensive lineman Billy Ray Smith Sr. from Pittsburgh for defensive back Jackie Simpson on January 25, 1961. Smith became a long-term Colts mainstay, appearing in 124 regular-season games for Baltimore and starting 75, with a career that extended through the Super Bowl V championship season. Simpson gave Pittsburgh 21 games and five starts across two seasons. The longevity gap makes Baltimore the decisive winner.
Dallas acquired Dicky Moegle and received immediate starting value. Moegle started all 14 games for the Cowboys in 1961 and intercepted two passes, giving the young franchise a full season of useful defensive backfield work. His Dallas tenure was brief, but the contribution was substantial enough to match the short-term starting production Pittsburgh received from Bill Butler and Dick Klein.
Pittsburgh acquired rookie defensive back Fred Williamson from San Francisco in September 1960 for a future draft choice whose exact selection remains unresolved in surviving transaction records. Williamson appeared in 11 games and made five starts for the Steelers that season before leaving for the AFL in 1961. Pittsburgh received one useful season, while San Francisco's precise draft return cannot be tied confidently to a specific pick.
Chicago sent quarterback Rudy Bukich to Pittsburgh on August 31, 1960 for the Steelers' 1963 first-round selection, later No. 11 overall. Bukich gave Pittsburgh two seasons of quarterback depth and some starting work, while Chicago controlled a premium future asset. The Bears later reacquired Bukich in a separate 1962 transaction, but the 1960 exchange itself still favored Chicago's first-round return.
Baltimore converted aging veteran Bert Rechichar into Pittsburgh’s 1961 fifth-round selection and used No. 62 on Auburn’s Ed Dyas. The pick carried developmental upside, but Dyas never appeared in an NFL regular-season game. Rechichar’s Steelers tenure was also short—six games and three starts in 1960—so this was a low-value exchange overall. Pittsburgh’s limited on-field service is enough to give the Steelers the edge.
Pittsburgh Steelers received Will Renfro and 1961 fifth round pick (#59-Fred Mautino). Pittsburgh received Will Renfro and the 1961 fifth-round choice used on Fred Mautino. Renfro's Steelers stay was brief, and Mautino did not appear in an NFL regular-season game. The package gave Pittsburgh two possible paths to value, but neither developed into a durable return, leaving the Steelers with a limited result from the exchange. That result supports a C- grade for Pittsburgh Steelers.
Pittsburgh acquired fullback John Henry Johnson from Detroit in April 1960 for two draft selections that the Lions used on Dick Mills in 1961 and John Lomakoski in 1962. Johnson enjoyed the best stretch of his Hall of Fame career with the Steelers, becoming the franchise's first 1,000-yard rusher and making three Pro Bowls. Detroit's two picks produced little comparable impact.
San Francisco traded defensive back Dick Moegle to Pittsburgh in March 1960 for the Steelers' 1961 first-round pick. The selection landed sixth overall and became Jimmy Johnson, who spent his entire 16-year career with the 49ers, made five Pro Bowls, and entered the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Moegle gave Pittsburgh some immediate veteran value, but the long-term comparison is overwhelming.
Pittsburgh sent young quarterback Len Dawson and receiver Gern Nagler to Cleveland on New Year's Eve 1959 for defensive back Junior Wren and end Preston Carpenter. Dawson barely played for Cleveland before being released, while Nagler supplied two useful receiving seasons. Carpenter became a productive Steelers receiver and a 1962 Pro Bowler, giving Pittsburgh the better realized return despite Dawson's later Hall of Fame career elsewhere.
Cleveland sent Pittsburgh the rights to veteran end Darrel Brewster and a 1960 fifth-round choice that became Abner Haynes, receiving Pittsburgh’s 1960 second-rounder in return. The Browns used that pick on tackle Larry Stephens, who gave them two seasons before becoming part of the later Frank Ryan trade; Pittsburgh never captured Haynes’ AFL stardom.
Pittsburgh and the Cardinals exchanged Gern Nagler and Ken Hall around September 2, 1959, amid a quick sequence of late-summer player movement. Historical player records support the swap but do not reveal a durable value gap between the two returns. With neither side gaining a clearly superior long-term payoff, an Even Trade and matching C grades remain appropriate.
Washington acquired defensive back Richie McCabe from Pittsburgh on May 27, 1959 for fullback Billy Hicks. McCabe played 10 regular-season games with four starts for Washington that season and recorded one interception.
Pittsburgh acquired Bobby Layne early in the 1958 season for Earl Morrall, a 1959 second-round pick, and a 1960 fourth-round pick. Layne immediately helped turn an 0-2 start into a 7-4-1 finish and remained the Steelers' primary quarterback through 1962. The deal delivered the established champion and future Hall of Famer Buddy Parker wanted, giving Pittsburgh several winning seasons and a new level of credibility at quarterback.
Pittsburgh acquired Billy Ray Smith Sr. and rookie receiver Jimmy Orr immediately before the 1958 season. Orr exploded for 910 receiving yards and seven touchdowns as a rookie and spent three productive years with the Steelers. Los Angeles appears to have received the 1959 third-round choice used on Tom Franckhauser, with a possible additional 1960 third-rounder tied to Pervis Atkins.
Green Bay received the 1959 fifth-round choice at No. 55 and selected Andy Cvercko. Cvercko appeared in 12 games as a reserve before leaving, giving the Packers a real but similarly limited return. That outcome supports a C grade within the Pittsburgh Steelers Win verdict. The grade reflects realized football value rather than the size of the original package.
Cleveland Browns received Willie McClung, while Pittsburgh Steelers received Billy Reynolds. Pittsburgh acquired Billy Reynolds while Cleveland received Willie McClung. McClung became a useful Browns lineman across the 1958 and 1959 seasons, while Reynolds provided much less for Pittsburgh, making Cleveland the stronger side. Cleveland Browns earns a B grade, and the overall verdict is Cleveland Browns Win.
Los Angeles Rams received 1959 fourth round pick (#45-Bob Reifsnyder) in the 1958-07-16 exchange with Pittsburgh Steelers. Pittsburgh acquired veteran fullback Paul 'Tank' Younger from the Rams on July 16, 1958 for the 1959 fourth-round choice later used on Bob Reifsnyder. Contemporary reporting described an undisclosed draft choice, while later draft provenance resolves the exact selection. The documented result supports a B- grade for Los Angeles Rams. The overall verdict is Los Angeles/St. Louis Rams Win, based on realized value rather than hypothetical upside.
Pittsburgh acquired linebacker Ralph Felton from Washington in 1958, but the Steelers released him before the season was complete. Felton therefore provided only a short-lived return before Washington signed him back. The Steelers did not secure lasting value from the acquisition, while Washington regained Felton and also held the seventh-round pick received in the trade, supporting a D+ grade for Pittsburgh.
Pittsburgh’s conditional sixth-rounder conveyed because Bob Dougherty made the Steelers roster, and Los Angeles used No. 66 in 1960 on Don Ellersick. Dougherty gave Pittsburgh one season with 12 games and seven starts at linebacker. Ellersick gave the Rams one season too, but he played 12 games, started nine and intercepted two passes. The margins are narrow, yet the verified outcomes favor Los Angeles, B to B-, rather than Pittsburgh.
Pittsburgh acquired Billy Wells from Washington for a 1960 seventh-round pick probably used on Lenard Wilson. The exact downstream pick carries historical uncertainty, but Wells immediately played 11 games with nine starts for the Steelers in 1957. Pittsburgh therefore received meaningful short-term service, while Washington's probable draft return did not produce comparable documented value.
Pittsburgh acquired Sid Fournet and Dean Derby from the Rams in September 1957 for future draft consideration. The exact Rams pick chain is not fully settled, but Derby's Pittsburgh value is clear: he became an All-Pro and Pro Bowl defensive back and intercepted 21 passes across his NFL career. The Steelers captured the strongest realized player value and earn an A- to the Rams' C.
Chicago Bears received cash and draft pick (undisclosed overall/player) in the deal with Pittsburgh Steelers. Chicago received cash plus a draft choice whose exact downstream identity is not established in the surviving record. That still represented usable compensation, but there is not enough verified downstream value to outweigh Pittsburgh's known contribution. That outcome supports a C for Chicago Bears. The Pittsburgh Steelers Win verdict weighs documented games, starts, production and connected draft value.
Pittsburgh acquired quarterback Earl Morrall and guard Mike Sandusky from San Francisco on September 16, 1957, for linebacker Marv Matuszak and first-round picks in both 1958 and 1959. Morrall started 13 games during roughly a season and a half with the Steelers before being moved again. San Francisco therefore received the stronger direct package, even though its draft choices did not become enduring stars.
Pittsburgh acquired rookies Dave Liddick and Jack Kemp from Detroit on September 12, 1957 for a 1958 draft choice whose exact selection remains disputed in the surviving transaction record. Liddick played 10 games with three starts for Pittsburgh that season, while Kemp appeared in nine games. The precise player Detroit ultimately obtained from the pick is not resolved.
Washington acquired Don Owens from Pittsburgh for Dale Atkeson in September 1957. Owens immediately became a regular, starting ten games for Washington that season. Atkeson's Pittsburgh opportunity was derailed and did not produce comparable regular-season value. The exchange therefore favors Washington clearly, though the limited scale of the player swap keeps the grade below elite territory.
Baltimore traded running back Dick Young to Pittsburgh for a 1958 seventh-round selection and used the pick on defensive back Johnny Sample. Young played only the 1957 season for the Steelers. Sample became part of both Colts championship teams, scored on a 42-yard interception return in the 1959 title game, and later built an 11-year professional career with 41 interceptions.
Los Angeles Rams received undisclosed draft pick (possibly 1958 #44-Frank Woidzik) (possibly 1958 #55-Frank Ryan) from Pittsburgh Steelers, while Pittsburgh Steelers received 2 players in the 1957-09-04 deal. In hindsight, Los Angeles Rams's return did not separate far enough from the other side to justify a winner. The grades are C for Los Angeles Rams and C for Pittsburgh Steelers, producing a final verdict of Even Trade. The rating stays proportional to the stakes and to the value the acquired pieces ultimately delivered.
Baltimore sent Charlie Shepard to Pittsburgh in 1956 and received the Steelers’ 1957 16th-round pick, No. 185, which became Joe Cannavino. Shepard played all 12 games for Pittsburgh that season and contributed as a runner, receiver, and punter. Cannavino never played a regular-season game for the Colts, so the Steelers won a low-stakes exchange through immediate usable production.
Pittsburgh Steelers received Jack Scarbath. Pittsburgh acquired Jack Scarbath, but his 1956 Steelers production was limited: 12 completions on 41 attempts for 208 yards, two touchdowns, and five interceptions. That gave Pittsburgh short-term quarterback depth without creating sustained or high-level value. The return was measurable, but it did not develop into a major long-term advantage for the acquiring club.
Detroit Lions received Dick Modzelewski. Detroit acquired Dick Modzelewski but quickly moved him to the Giants for Ray Krouse. That downstream trade produced real Lions value: Krouse started all 12 games for Detroit in both 1956 and 1957. Detroit therefore converted the incoming player into two seasons of full-time starting defensive-line service.
Cleveland's 1955 swap of Marion Motley for Ed Modzelewski paid off quickly. Motley, already 36 and near the end of his career, lasted only seven games in Pittsburgh. Modzelewski led Cleveland with 619 rushing yards and contributed to a championship team. The difference in immediate realized value makes the Browns the clear winner, with a B+ against Pittsburgh's D+.
Pittsburgh Steelers received Dick Modzelewski. Pittsburgh received Dick Modzelewski, but his Steelers stay lasted only through the 1955 season before he was traded again. He provided legitimate short-term line value, yet Pittsburgh did not keep the player long enough to match the multi-season return Washington received from the outgoing package.
Pittsburgh acquired linebacker Stan Sheriff and defensive back Dewey McConnell from the Rams on September 10, 1954 for a future draft choice. Both newcomers played that season, with Sheriff starting seven games and McConnell four. Surviving draft-trade records only tentatively connect the Rams’ return to 1955 pick No. 18, so that selection should not be credited as a confirmed downstream asset.
Los Angeles Rams received 1955 draft pick (selection not identified). Los Angeles received a 1955 draft pick for George 'Spud' Murphy, but the exact selection has not been identified. The Rams therefore acquired a real draft asset whose downstream player outcome remains unresolved. That uncertainty must stay explicit rather than being converted into a guessed pick.
Pittsburgh sent John Henry Johnson to San Francisco in 1954 for halfback Ed Pullerton. The 49ers' own trade history confirms the straight player-for-player exchange. Johnson joined the famed Million Dollar Backfield, produced at a high level and eventually entered the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Pullerton did not deliver comparable Pittsburgh value, making San Francisco's advantage clear and allowing the confidence level to rise.
Pittsburgh acquired defensive tackle Tom Palmer from the Rams on September 20, 1953 for a conditional 1955 eighth-round pick. The condition depended on Palmer remaining on the Steelers roster through the sixth league game. Palmer played 11 games with five starts in 1953 and returned in 1954, so Pittsburgh received useful depth and starting snaps. The Steelers earn a narrow C+ to C win.
Chicago Bears received Jerry Shipkey. Chicago received Jerry Shipkey and got eight games of 1953 service. That was legitimate short-term roster value, but it did not match the immediate defensive impact Pittsburgh received from DeCarlo. Shipkey's Bears return was useful rather than transformative. The return was measurable, but it did not develop into a major long-term advantage for the acquiring club.
Los Angeles Rams received Gary Kerkorian. Los Angeles received Gary Kerkorian. The available post-trade research does not establish a substantial Rams regular-season contribution from him after the exchange. His broader football history should not be imported into this specific return unless it occurred for Los Angeles after the trade.
Los Angeles turned three fringe players into the 1954 fourth-round pick used on Lester McClelland, but McClelland never played an NFL game. Pittsburgh got the only realized production: Nick Bolkovac appeared in 17 Steelers games and scored 57 points, while Bill Hegarty played one Pittsburgh game and George Porter never reached an NFL regular-season game. That gives Pittsburgh the stronger hindsight return.
The Cardinals acquired Joe Geri and got one season of usable backfield and kicking value. Geri appeared in all 12 games in 1952, started once and scored 28 points. That was a legitimate short-term return, but it did not match the multi-season line play Pittsburgh received from Lou Ferry.
Pittsburgh Steelers received Bryant Douglas. Pittsburgh acquired Bryant Douglas from Washington. The available research does not show a major or durable Steelers regular-season outcome from Douglas after the trade. His value should therefore be treated as limited rather than inferred from appearances or roles he may have had with other clubs.
Chicago Bears received 1952 fifth round pick (#54-Jack Hoffman) in the exchange with Pittsburgh Steelers. Chicago's fifth-round choice became Jack Hoffman, who played 55 games with 54 starts for the Bears from 1952 through 1958. The supported hindsight grade is A-. That mark reflects realized value tied directly to this transaction, with the overall result recorded as Chicago Bears Win.
Pittsburgh acquired rookie end Tom Jelley from Chicago for the Steelers' 1952 eighth-round pick. Jelley appeared in five games without a start for Pittsburgh in 1951 and never played another NFL season.
Pittsburgh acquired halfback and defensive back Bob Hanlon from the Chicago Cardinals for a 1950 twelfth-round pick, No. 152, used on Bob Sharpe. Hanlon played all 12 games for the Steelers in 1949, started seven and intercepted three passes while also returning kicks. Sharpe did not create comparable documented NFL value. The return was modest, but Pittsburgh received the clearer immediate contribution from the documented transaction.
Chicago received Pittsburgh's 1950 fourth-round pick, No. 48 overall, and used it on Tom Novak. Novak never played an NFL regular-season game for the Bears. Pittsburgh, meanwhile, received 12 games and seven starts from Frank Minini in 1949. The Bears therefore converted the outgoing player into draft capital, but the selected player did not produce a regular-season return.
Philadelphia Eagles received Fred Hartman from Pittsburgh Steelers in the 1948-09-07 exchange. Hubert Shurtz appeared in 12 Pittsburgh games in 1948, and Fred Hartman also appeared in 12 Philadelphia games that season, with neither return creating lasting separation. Measured by what Philadelphia Eagles actually realized after the deal, the return supports a C grade and represents roughly even direct value. The overall judgment is Even Trade.
Chicago received Paul Stenn and turned the deal into four seasons of service. Stenn played 47 games and made 32 starts for the Bears from 1948 through 1951, giving Chicago durable value from a modest transaction. That sustained contribution clearly exceeded what Pittsburgh realized from Fred Hartman and the rights to Walt Pupa.
Chicago acquired the rights to Bobby Layne from Pittsburgh after the Steelers used the third overall choice in the 1948 draft on the Texas quarterback. The Bears gave up the rights to Ray Evans. Layne spent only one season in Chicago, but the Bears later moved him for two first-round choices, extending the value of the asset. Evans had one productive Pittsburgh season, so Chicago wins without making Pittsburgh's return worthless.
Detroit acquired reigning star Bill Dudley and tackle Jack Dugger from Pittsburgh. The Lions surrendered Bob Cifers, Paul White, the rights to Bob Chappuis, and their 1948 first-round choice, which became No. 3 overall Bobby Layne. Dudley and Dugger both contributed in Detroit, so the Lions received genuine immediate value, but the broad package they paid keeps their grade just below Pittsburgh's despite Pittsburgh's later handling of the Layne rights.
Arizona received Joe Coomer in the December 1946 exchange. The surviving professional record does not show the Cardinals extracting a substantial, durable advantage from Coomer, so the return is best treated as modest rather than inflated by uncertain later outcomes. That result supports a C- grade and fits an even overall verdict.
Cleveland Rams received Eberle Schultz in the 1945-08-01 exchange with Pittsburgh Steelers. Eberle Schultz became an important Cleveland Rams lineman during the 1945 championship season and continued to provide meaningful value. The direct package is the basis for the hindsight grade, with later movement of an acquired selection treated separately. That supports Los Angeles Rams Win.
Detroit Lions received cash. Detroit received cash rather than a player or draft choice, so there is no downstream football asset to evaluate beyond the sale itself. That result supports a C+ for Detroit Lions. The overall comparison is balanced because neither side created a clear enough edge to separate the grades. The grade reflects the realized player service and draft value tied directly to this transaction, without assigning extra credit for outcomes that cannot be traced confidently to the exchanged assets.
Chicago obtained Pittsburgh's 1941 first-round selection in exchange for quarterback Billy Patterson. The pick landed third overall and became Norm Standlee, who joined a powerful Bears roster and contributed during the club's championship period. Chicago turned one outgoing veteran into a premium selection and a high-level back, while Patterson did not create comparable long-term value in Pittsburgh. The draft-capital conversion makes this a clear Bears victory.
Green Bay Packers received Lou Midler. Green Bay received Lou Midler, who appeared in seven games for the Packers during the 1940 season. That result supports a C+ for Green Bay Packers. The overall comparison is balanced because neither side created a clear enough edge to separate the grades. The grade reflects the realized player service and draft value tied directly to this transaction, without assigning extra credit for outcomes that cannot be traced confidently to the exchanged assets.
The Rams received Hugh McCullough. His 1940 playing record is associated with the Cardinals rather than a meaningful Rams tenure, so Los Angeles did not receive a comparable on-field return to the season Condit delivered for Pittsburgh. The D+ grade reflects that realized football value and the complete supported package, while the overall verdict is Pittsburgh Steelers Win.
Brooklyn Dodgers received Joe Kuharich from Pittsburgh Steelers in the 1940-04-14 exchange. George Lenc did not play for Pittsburgh after the trade, while Joe Kuharich's later NFL action came with the Chicago Cardinals rather than Brooklyn, leaving both acquiring clubs empty-handed. Measured by what Brooklyn Dodgers actually realized after the deal, the return supports a D+ grade and represents roughly even direct value. The overall judgment is Even Trade.
Brooklyn Dodgers received Sam Francis. Brooklyn received Sam Francis. Francis gave the Dodgers a modest immediate return, but his post-trade value did not approach the production Pittsburgh received from Boyd Brumbaugh. Brooklyn obtained a recognized player rather than future draft uncertainty, yet the football payoff was smaller and shorter-lived than the Steelers' side of the exchange. That result supports a C grade for Brooklyn Dodgers.
Green Bay received cash for Bernie Scherer in July 1939. The amount is not preserved in the surviving record, so the Packers' return cannot be converted into a specific football outcome. Scherer gave Pittsburgh nine games and three starts in his final NFL season, making the transaction a reasonable low-value exchange rather than a clear long-term win for either side.
Chicago acquired the rights to Bill Patterson, who reported and provided meaningful backfield and passing work during the 1939 season. His Bears contribution was not a long-term centerpiece, but it gave Chicago immediate offensive utility from the exchange. Compared with Sam Francis' brief five-game Pittsburgh tenure before another move, Patterson's larger role gives the Bears a modest advantage.
Detroit agreed to acquire Bill Patterson from Pittsburgh on February 1, 1939, with Vern Huffman and Ace Gutowsky going to the Pirates. The exchange did not stand: a February 12 transaction entry records the deal as canceled, with Patterson returning to Pittsburgh and the rights to Dick Nardi added as compensation. The C grade reflects a deal that produced no lasting original exchange.
Chicago sent end Edgar 'Eggs' Manske to Pittsburgh in 1938 and received the Steelers' 1939 first-round choice. Pittsburgh finished with a pick that landed second overall, and the Bears used it on Sid Luckman. Luckman became a Hall of Fame quarterback and led Chicago to four NFL championships. Manske later returned to the Bears, making the first-round acquisition one of the most productive trades in franchise history.
Green Bay and Pittsburgh attempted a July 20, 1938 exchange sending Buckets Goldenberg and Swede Johnston to Pittsburgh for the rights to Pat McCarty and Lou Midler. The arrangement was conditional on the two incoming rights players reporting. Both instead took coaching jobs, so Goldenberg and Johnston were told to return to Green Bay and the deal was called off. No lasting football value changed hands.
Green Bay’s April 10, 1938 dealings with Pittsburgh brought Ed Brett and the rights to Ray King and Pat McCarty in exchange for Walt Bartanen, Charles “Buckets” Goldenberg and Chester “Swede” Johnston. The King-McCarty portion did not stick: the draftees did not report, and Goldenberg and Johnston reverted to Green Bay, sharply limiting the lasting value of the original package.
The Rams received Johnny Gilden, but he did not produce a comparable playing return for the club. That absence of meaningful realized value left Los Angeles behind Pittsburgh's multi-season contribution from Maras. That outcome supports a D+ grade within the Pittsburgh Steelers Win verdict. The grade reflects realized football value rather than the size of the original package.
Pittsburgh acquired the rights to Ted Doyle from the New York Giants on April 10, 1938, with New York receiving the rights to Hugh Wolfe. Doyle went on to spend most of his NFL career with Pittsburgh-related clubs, while Wolfe played for the Giants in 1938 and was part of their championship season. The existing C grade reflects modest value.
The Cardinals received cash for the rights to Ed 'Jeep' Brett in September 1936. The surviving record does not establish the payment amount or a downstream roster use for it. Brett, meanwhile, produced 18 games and 11 starts for Pittsburgh over two seasons, so the Cardinals' return is best treated as legitimate but unquantified compensation rather than a measurable football outcome.
Green Bay received cash for Ben Smith and Johnny Blood McNally in August 1934. The payment is verified but not quantified in the surviving record, so no specific football return can be attached to it. Pittsburgh, meanwhile, got 10 starts from Smith and additional service from Blood, leaving the Packers with the less measurable side of the transaction in hindsight.