San Francisco 49ers
Trade grades, verdicts, asset movement, and historical context for San Francisco 49ers franchise trades.
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San Francisco 49ers
San Francisco acquired interior offensive lineman Jarrett Patterson from Houston for a 2027 seventh-round pick on August 30, 2026. Patterson brought starting experience at center and guard at a moment when the 49ers were searching for interior depth. Houston recovered a late pick while reshaping its line, but San Francisco gets the current-read edge because a seventh is a small price for an experienced, versatile blocker.
San Francisco acquired linebacker Deion Jones from New Orleans for running back Zamir White in a late-August player-for-player exchange. The 49ers released Jones on August 30 before he made the initial 53-man roster, while New Orleans terminated White's contract the same day. No draft capital was reported in the swap, and neither acquiring club received regular-season roster value from the player it obtained.
Baltimore moved up to No. 133 for Matthew Hibner, giving up No. 154 and a 2027 sixth-round pick. Hibner made the Ravens' initial 53-man roster, which gives Baltimore a real developmental asset but not yet an established regular-season return. With the 2026 season only beginning, there is not enough completed NFL production to assign Baltimore a meaningful advantage.
San Francisco exchanged picks fifty-eight and 152 for Cleveland's selections seventy and 107 in the 2026 draft. The 49ers selected Romello Height and Gracen Halton, while Cleveland used its second-round choice on Emmanuel McNeil-Warren. The transaction exchanged draft position for a stronger later selection. With little NFL history established, an even preliminary assessment is more defensible than a career-based winner.
New England converted the acquired No. 198 pick into rookie quarterback Behren Morton at No. 234 plus a 2027 sixth-rounder, leaving that branch too early for a final grade. San Francisco got nine 2025 games, two starts and 1.5 sacks from Keion White, then another Week 1 start and fumble recovery in 2026. The conditional seventh reverted to New England. San Francisco keeps a narrow B- to C+ win.
San Francisco acquired Brian Robinson for a 2026 sixth-round pick and received immediate production in 2025. Robinson played all 17 games, carried 92 times for 400 yards and two touchdowns, then moved on to Atlanta for 2026. The 49ers received a useful one-season backfield return from a modest draft cost.
Kansas City sent wide receiver Skyy Moore and a 2027 seventh-round pick to San Francisco for a 2027 sixth-round pick. The future selections remain unresolved, but the 49ers already received a full season of special-teams production from Moore, including 907 kickoff-return yards and 291 punt-return yards before he moved on in 2026.
Minnesota acquired Jordan Mason and a 2025 sixth-round pick from San Francisco for a 2025 fifth-rounder and a 2026 sixth-rounder. Mason immediately supplied starting-caliber rushing production, while the 49ers turned the fifth-round slot into safety Marques Sigle and retained another future selection. Both teams found usable value, but Mason's 2025 workload gives Minnesota the modest edge.
San Francisco agreed on March 1, 2025 to send Deebo Samuel to Washington for a fifth-round pick, and both clubs list the completed transaction on March 12. Washington received 16 games, 12 starts and 802 scrimmage yards with six touchdowns in 2025. San Francisco's No. 147 pick, Jordan James, produced only limited rookie action.
Kansas City moved up one spot to No. 63 and added a sixth-round choice, turning the deal into Kingsley Suamataia and Kamal Hadden. San Francisco moved back to No. 64 for Renardo Green while also adding the No. 173 pick. Green became a full-time starter, while Suamataia developed into a starting guard. Both teams found meaningful value, leaving the exchange close to even.
San Francisco moved from No. 94 to No. 86 in the 2024 third round and selected guard Dominick Puni, sending Philadelphia No. 94 and No. 132. Puni started immediately and became a dependable 49ers lineman. Philadelphia used No. 94 on edge defender Jalyx Hunt, whose 2025 breakout included 6.5 sacks and three interceptions, giving both clubs strong young starters from the swap.
San Francisco 49ers received Chase Young. San Francisco received Chase Young, who immediately joined the pass rush during the club's run to Super Bowl LVIII. That result supports a B- for San Francisco 49ers. The overall comparison favors San Francisco 49ers, which produced the stronger realized return. 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.
San Francisco acquired Randy Gregory and Denver's 2024 seventh-round choice for the 49ers' 2024 sixth-round pick. Gregory supplied rotational pass-rush snaps during San Francisco's Super Bowl run, but the stint lasted only one season. Denver improved its draft position from the seventh to the sixth round while moving a player no longer central to its plans, giving the Broncos a small but durable value edge.
Dallas sent a 2024 fourth-round pick to San Francisco for Trey Lance, hoping the former No. 3 selection could develop behind Dak Prescott. Lance attempted only 41 regular-season passes for Dallas before leaving, while San Francisco used pick No. 124 on safety Malik Mustapha. Mustapha has started 22 games, recorded 148 tackles and intercepted two passes through two seasons. The 49ers converted a discarded quarterback into a starting defender and won decisively.
Minnesota traded pick No. 87 to San Francisco in the 2023 draft for Nos. 102, 164 and 222. The Vikings selected Mekhi Blackmon, Jaren Hall and DeWayne McBride, while the 49ers used No. 87 on safety Ji'Ayir Brown. Brown became the most durable starter in the deal, reaching 31 starts and five interceptions through 2025. San Francisco therefore produced the stronger concentrated return.
Carolina Panthers received 2025 conditional seventh round pick (not conveyed), while San Francisco 49ers received Zane Gonzalez and 2025 conditional seventh round pick (not conveyed). Carolina sent kicker Zane Gonzalez to San Francisco in a conditional swap of 2025 seventh-round selections. Neither conditional pick was conveyed, and Gonzalez was placed on injured reserve and later released by San Francisco without appearing in a regular-season game for the club. That outcome supports a C grade for Carolina Panthers, a C for San Francisco 49ers, and a Even Trade verdict.
Miami acquired running back Jeff Wilson from San Francisco at the 2022 deadline for a 2023 fifth-round pick. Wilson immediately gave the Dolphins familiar, dependable backfield depth and stayed with the club beyond the initial season. San Francisco used the pick on cornerback Darrell Luter Jr., adding a younger, cost-controlled defender. Both teams received useful depth, but the 49ers get a narrow edge for converting a surplus veteran into a multi-year draft asset.
San Francisco's trade for Christian McCaffrey became one of the clearest modern examples of a running back being worth the price. The 49ers paid a strong draft-pick package, but McCaffrey immediately became the engine of Kyle Shanahan's offense. Carolina received volume, yet San Francisco acquired the player who changed its ceiling. The deal worked because the player, coach, scheme, and roster timeline all matched.
Houston sent Charles Omenihu to San Francisco at the 2021 trade deadline for a 2023 sixth-round pick that became No. 207. The Texans secured future draft capital for a player they were willing to move, but they later traded that selection, so Anders Carlson was not Houston's direct return. Omenihu's useful 49ers production gives San Francisco the stronger hindsight result.
Denver acquired linebacker Jonas Griffith and a 2022 seventh-round pick from San Francisco for a 2022 sixth-rounder and a 2023 seventh-rounder. Griffith became a useful short-term starter, appearing in 22 games with 12 starts for the Broncos before injuries interrupted his momentum. San Francisco retained usable draft value, but Denver received the most immediate NFL contribution, producing a modest Broncos edge.
Las Vegas moved from No. 48 to No. 43 in 2021 for safety Tre'von Moehrig and also received a seventh-round pick. San Francisco took guard Aaron Banks at No. 48 and later moved the fourth-round selection. Moehrig started 64 games in four Raiders seasons with six interceptions, while Banks started 43 games for three strong 49ers offenses before leaving in free agency. Both teams found quality multi-year starters, making this an even trade.
San Francisco sent picks 117 and 121 to the Rams to move up to No. 88 for running back Trey Sermon. Sermon rushed for 167 yards as a rookie and was waived before his second season. Los Angeles used No. 117 on defensive tackle Bobby Brown III and later moved No. 121. Brown developed into a regular contributor and starter on the Rams' defensive line. The Rams received the only lasting player value and clearly won the deal.
San Francisco sent Miami the No. 12 pick in 2021, first-round picks in 2022 and 2023, and a 2022 third-rounder to move up to No. 3 for Trey Lance. Lance started only four games for the 49ers before they traded him to Dallas for a 2024 fourth. Miami immediately recycled No. 12 in another trade and retained enormous additional capital. The quarterback gamble failed, making the Dolphins the overwhelming winner.
San Francisco traded Kwon Alexander to New Orleans for Kiko Alonso and a conditional fifth-round pick that became Deommodore Lenoir in 2021. Alonso supplied no playing return, but Lenoir developed into a long-term member of the secondary and earned a major extension. That direct draft outcome gives the 49ers the stronger lasting value from the exchange.
New York Jets received the 2022 No. 207 pick, which New York traded to Houston for Shaq Lawson; Lawson played 14 games with seven starts for the Jets in 2021, recording 23 tackles, one sack and one interception. The return earns a C+, versus B for San Francisco 49ers, with a hindsight verdict of San Francisco 49ers Win. Concrete team-specific production and downstream results drive the grade.
Miami sent the 153rd pick in the 2020 draft to San Francisco for running back Matt Breida. Breida played one Dolphins season, rushing for 254 yards on 59 carries and adding 96 receiving yards. The 49ers used No. 153 on Colton McKivitz, who developed into their starting right tackle and later earned an extension through 2028. That longevity makes San Francisco the clear winner.
San Francisco moved Marquise Goodwin and pick No. 210 to Philadelphia for pick No. 190, then used No. 190 on tight end Charlie Woerner. Goodwin opted out of 2020 and his rights reverted to San Francisco in 2021, triggering an additional 2021 seventh-round pick to Philadelphia. Woerner gave the 49ers four seasons, 65 regular-season games and seven starts. Philadelphia got one regular-season game from No. 210 pick Prince Tega Wanogho, while the later seventh-round adjustment was bundled into subsequent pick trades. The realized franchise value favors San Francisco.
San Francisco acquired Trent Williams from Washington for a 2020 fifth-round pick and a 2021 third after the seven-time Pro Bowler had missed the entire 2019 season. Williams became even better with the 49ers, earning three straight first-team All-Pro selections from 2021 through 2023 and another All-Pro honor in 2025. Washington received Keith Ismael and Benjamin St-Juste, who supplied starting snaps but nowhere near Williams' value. San Francisco won decisively.
San Francisco moved from No. 31 to No. 25 and selected Brandon Aiyuk, while Minnesota used the return on Jeff Gladney, D.J. Wonnum and K.J. Osborn. The Vikings extracted multiple useful players, especially Wonnum and Osborn, but Aiyuk became an All-Pro receiver with consecutive 1,000-yard seasons and a major extension. His top-end impact gives the 49ers a narrow but meaningful win.
Tampa Bay traded up one spot from No. 14 to No. 13 in the 2020 draft, sending San Francisco pick 117 and receiving pick 245. The Buccaneers selected tackle Tristan Wirfs, who quickly became an elite offensive lineman and a foundational piece of their championship offense. San Francisco took Javon Kinlaw at 14 and later used the extra fourth-round capital in the move that produced Brandon Aiyuk, but Wirfs remains the defining value.
Indianapolis sent the 13th pick in the 2020 draft to San Francisco for DeForest Buckner and immediately signed him long term. Buckner became a first-team All-Pro in his first Colts season, added Pro Bowl selections and recorded 43 sacks for Indianapolis through 2025. San Francisco moved from No. 13 to No. 14 for Javon Kinlaw and gained another pick used in later movement. Kinlaw never approached Buckner's impact, making this a clear Colts win.
San Francisco 49ers
Denver sent Emmanuel Sanders and a 2020 fifth-round pick to San Francisco for third- and fourth-round selections. The Broncos used No. 95 on McTelvin Agim and later moved the fourth-rounder, but the resulting value never matched Sanders' immediate impact on a 49ers team that reached Super Bowl LIV. Denver gained useful rebuilding capital, yet San Francisco got the more consequential football return.
Denver Broncos received Dekoda Watson; 2019 6th round pick (212th overall subsequently traded, Dennis Daley) from San Francisco 49ers, giving up 2019 5th round pick (148th overall, Dre Greenlaw). Denver received Dekoda Watson and a late sixth-round choice. The return proved limited compared with the value San Francisco created from No. 148, so the Broncos receive an F on this specific exchange. That return supports a F grade for Denver Broncos. The final verdict is San Francisco 49ers Win.
Cincinnati Bengals received 2019 4th round pick (104th overall, Ryan Finley) in the 2019-04-27 exchange with San Francisco 49ers. Ryan Finley had only a brief run as a Bengals quarterback and did not create sustained value from the move up. The direct return and the football value it produced drive the hindsight judgment. Against the assets Cincinnati Bengals surrendered, the result supports San Francisco 49ers Win and a D+ grade for Cincinnati Bengals.
Kansas City traded franchise-tagged edge rusher Dee Ford to San Francisco for a 2020 second-round pick, avoiding a major long-term commitment after his career-best 2018 season. The Chiefs used pick No. 63 on linebacker Willie Gay Jr., who became a multi-year starter and contributed to championship defenses. Ford helped the 49ers reach Super Bowl LIV in his first season, but persistent injuries made his five-year contract far less valuable than expected.
San Francisco acquired tackle Shon Coleman from Cleveland for a 2019 seventh-round pick. Coleman was inactive for all 16 games in 2018, spent 2019 on injured reserve and never appeared in a 49ers regular-season game. Cleveland retained the No. 243 draft asset and later included it in the Josh Gordon trade with New England.
Detroit acquired linebacker Eli Harold before the 2018 season for a conditional 2020 seventh-round pick. Harold gave the Lions immediate veteran depth and a season of defensive snaps, so the move was not empty. The pick eventually became No. 217, however, and San Francisco used it on Jauan Jennings, whose long-term receiving and postseason value created a much larger return.
San Francisco sent tackle Trent Brown and 2018 fifth-round No. 143 to New England for 2018 third-round No. 95. The 49ers used No. 95 on Tarvarius Moore, while New England gained a starting left tackle for its Super Bowl LIII run and selected Ja'Whaun Bentley at No. 143. The Patriots received the stronger combined return.
San Francisco sent picks No. 59 and No. 74 to Washington for picks No. 44 and No. 142, then used them on Dante Pettis and D.J. Reed. Washington moved down and selected Derrius Guice and Geron Christian, but Guice's career was derailed before he could deliver meaningful value and Christian became a limited starter. San Francisco's Dante Pettis also failed to last, yet fifth-rounder D.J. Reed developed into a quality NFL corner after leaving the 49ers. San Francisco's side produced the stronger overall football value.
New England Patriots New England received the 2018 second-round pick at No. 43. The Patriots multiplied that asset through later draft-day movement, preserving meaningful value even though the original selection was not used directly on one player. The supported hindsight grade is B-. That mark weighs only value tied directly to this transaction and keeps the result proportional to the deal's cost. Against San Francisco 49ers, the final verdict is San Francisco 49ers Win.
New York Jets received Rashard Robinson; San Francisco 49ers received 2018 fifth-round pick No. 143. Robinson played 16 Jets games with two starts and no interceptions. San Francisco later used No. 143 with Trent Brown to acquire No. 95, which became Tarvarius Moore. The realized outcomes support San Francisco 49ers Win, with New York Jets graded C and San Francisco 49ers graded C+.
San Francisco acquired guard Laken Tomlinson from Detroit for a 2019 fifth-round pick and received five seasons of durable starting line play. Tomlinson started 80 regular-season games for the 49ers, helped the club reach Super Bowl LIV and earned a Pro Bowl selection in 2021. Detroit later used the acquired fifth-round asset in the trade for Damon Harrison, so the Lions generated real value, but Tomlinson's sustained tenure was stronger.
Denver Broncos received 2018 4th round pick (109th overall subsequently traded, Troy Apke) in the 2017-04-29 exchange, while San Francisco 49ers received Kapri Bibbs and 2017 5th round pick (177th overall, Trent Taylor). Denver received a 2018 fourth-round selection that settled at No. 109 and later became part of another trade chain. That future draft capital gave the Broncos flexibility and enough retained value to support a small edge.
San Francisco traded up with Indianapolis on April 29, 2017, sending picks No. 143 and No. 161 to the Colts for No. 121. The 49ers used No. 121 on running back Joe Williams, who spent his rookie season on injured reserve and never appeared in a San Francisco regular-season game. Indianapolis used the return on Marlon Mack and Anthony Walker Jr., both of whom became multi-year starters and productive contributors.
San Francisco sent picks No. 109 and No. 219 to Minnesota to move back into the 2017 third round for quarterback C.J. Beathard. Beathard made 12 starts and provided several seasons of backup value for the 49ers. Minnesota selected defensive tackle Jaleel Johnson and receiver Stacy Coley; Johnson became a four-year rotational lineman with 20 starts. Neither side found a star, but both received useful depth.
New Orleans sent pick No. 229 and a 2018 second-rounder to San Francisco for pick No. 67, then selected Alvin Kamara. Kamara became one of the defining players of the Saints' modern era, earning five straight Pro Bowls to begin his career and setting major franchise rushing marks. San Francisco found some value in Adrian Colbert and later draft maneuvering, but nothing close to Kamara's impact.
San Francisco moved from No. 34 to No. 31 and selected Reuben Foster. Foster flashed starter-level talent but his 49ers tenure ended after two seasons and did not become the durable linebacker cornerstone the move-up was designed to secure. The 49ers therefore received real short-term ability without enough longevity to justify the concentrated draft investment.
San Francisco moved down only one spot in the 2017 draft and collected Chicago’s third- and fourth-round picks plus a 2018 third-rounder. The 49ers still selected Solomon Thomas at No. 3, while later value from the package connected directly to Fred Warner. Thomas never met his draft billing, but gaining multiple selections for allowing Chicago to move from third to second gave San Francisco a substantial value advantage.
Kansas City sent Rod Streater to San Francisco in 2016 and ultimately received the 2019 seventh-round selection at No. 216, used on guard Nick Allegretti. Allegretti became an excellent late-round return, appearing in 74 games with 13 starts for Kansas City from 2019 through 2023 and contributing to three Super Bowl championship teams. The long-term line depth easily surpassed Streater's brief 49ers production.
Detroit Lions received Brandon Thomas in the 2016-08-29 exchange with San Francisco 49ers. Brandon Thomas did not deliver comparable regular-season value for Detroit after the straight player swap. The direct package is the basis for the hindsight grade, with later movement of an acquired selection treated separately. That supports San Francisco 49ers Win.
Kansas City acquired cornerback Kenneth Acker from San Francisco on August 27, 2016 for a future seventh-round pick. Acker appeared in nine games for the Chiefs in 2016 and all 16 in 2017, intercepting one pass in his second Kansas City season. He provided useful secondary depth, but the Chiefs received only two seasons before his tenure ended.
Kansas City gave San Francisco No. 28 and No. 249 for Nos. 37, 105 and 178. The 49ers used the first-rounder on Joshua Garnett, who never became a durable starter. The Chiefs selected Chris Jones at No. 37, landing a franchise-defining defensive tackle, perennial Pro Bowl player and championship cornerstone. Parker Ehinger and D.J. White were secondary returns; Jones alone makes this overwhelming.
Minnesota traded linebacker Gerald Hodges to San Francisco in October 2015 for center Nick Easton and a 2016 sixth-round pick, later used on Moritz Boehringer. Boehringer never became a regular-season factor, but Easton developed into a useful Vikings interior lineman and made 17 starts for Minnesota. Hodges gave the 49ers immediate linebacker snaps, yet the combined Easton-plus-pick return created the better long-term value for the Vikings.
Cleveland acquired three-time Pro Bowl punter Andy Lee from San Francisco for a future seventh-round choice that ultimately became No. 219 in 2017. Lee immediately gave the Browns a proven specialist for the 2015 season. San Francisco later moved the pick to Minnesota rather than selecting a player with it, so Stacy Coley should not be treated as a direct 49ers return. Cleveland received the clearer immediate value.
San Francisco moved down in the fifth round on May 2, 2015, sending pick No. 151 to Indianapolis for picks No. 165 and No. 244. The Colts used No. 151 on defensive tackle David Parry, who started all 32 games for Indianapolis across his first two seasons. The 49ers turned the return into punter Bradley Pinion and tackle Trent Brown, getting four seasons from Pinion plus 31 games and 28 starts from Brown before his later departure.
San Francisco sent 2015 seventh-round No. 246 to Dallas for the Cowboys' 2016 sixth-round pick, No. 178. Dallas used No. 246 on tight end Geoff Swaim, who developed into a multi-year NFL contributor, while San Francisco later moved No. 178 and did not realize comparable direct player value. Dallas owns the stronger hindsight return.
San Francisco moved from No. 15 to No. 17 in the 2015 first round and received No. 117 plus a 2016 fifth-rounder, later No. 142. The 49ers selected Arik Armstead, Blake Bell and Ronald Blair; San Diego took Melvin Gordon at No. 15. Both clubs found useful players, but San Francisco's extra capital and Armstead's longevity create the better package.
Buffalo traded veteran receiver Stevie Johnson to San Francisco for a conditional 2015 selection that became a fourth-round pick. Johnson caught 35 passes for 435 yards and three touchdowns in his lone 49ers season before his release. Buffalo later used the acquired draft asset within another transaction, creating flexibility without producing a major long-term Bills contributor from the original return.
Denver moved up from No. 63 to No. 56 in the 2014 second round, also receiving No. 242, while San Francisco collected Nos. 63 and 171 plus a 2015 fourth-rounder. Denver selected Cody Latimer and Corey Nelson. The 49ers quickly repackaged Nos. 63 and 171 to move to No. 57 for Carlos Hyde and later used the future fourth on Mike Davis. San Francisco created the stronger overall value.
Jacksonville traded picks No. 70 and No. 150 to San Francisco for No. 61 and selected Allen Robinson. Robinson became the Jaguars' leading receiver, produced a 1,400-yard, 14-touchdown season in 2015 and gave Jacksonville four years of starting-caliber play. San Francisco used the return on Marcus Martin and Aaron Lynch; Lynch flashed as a pass rusher, while Martin started early but did not become a long-term answer. Jacksonville landed the clear best player.
San Francisco moved from No. 63 to No. 57 in the 2014 second round, sending Miami picks No. 63 and 171. The 49ers selected running back Carlos Hyde, while the Dolphins selected receiver Jarvis Landry and linebacker Jordan Tripp. Hyde became a productive starter, so San Francisco received real value. Landry, however, became a three-time Pro Bowler in four Miami seasons and the franchise's primary receiver. Miami won a strong trade for both sides.
Cleveland received 2014 3rd round pick (94th overall, Terrance West), while San Francisco received 2014 4th round pick (106th overall, Bruce Ellington), 2014 6th round pick (180th overall, Kenneth Acker). The hindsight grades are C for Cleveland and C for San Francisco. The verdict is grounded in the actual starts, production, tenure and downstream draft results produced by those assets.
Jacksonville received the 205th pick in the 2014 draft and selected Luke Bowanko. Jacksonville received the 205th pick in the 2014 draft and used it on Luke Bowanko. Bowanko started fourteen games as a rookie and remained useful depth afterward, giving the Jaguars an immediate lineup return from a sixth-round selection. That combination of early starts and continued roster utility made the pick worthwhile. In hindsight, that result supports a B- grade for Jacksonville Jaguars in a deal ultimately judged as Jacksonville Jaguars Win.
Miami sent Jonathan Martin to San Francisco for a conditional 2015 seventh-round selection, ending a relationship that was no longer part of the Dolphins' plans. Martin appeared in 15 games with nine starts for the 49ers in 2014 before his San Francisco tenure ended. Miami recovered a future draft asset, but that return did not become a significant long-term Dolphins contributor.
New Orleans Saints received Parys Haralson; San Francisco 49ers received 2014 seventh-round pick No. 242. Haralson played 32 Saints games, started 20 and recorded 6.5 sacks. San Francisco later packaged No. 242 in a larger trade with Denver instead of drafting Corey Nelson. The realized outcomes support New Orleans Saints Win, with New Orleans Saints graded B- and San Francisco 49ers graded C.
Kansas City acquired wide receiver A.J. Jenkins from San Francisco on August 19, 2013 in a straight swap for Jonathan Baldwin. Jenkins appeared in all 16 games for the Chiefs in 2013 and caught eight passes for 130 yards, then added nine catches in 2014. His Kansas City production remained modest, but he gave the Chiefs considerably more game-day value than Baldwin produced for the 49ers.
San Francisco traded down six spots in the 2013 second round, sending No. 34 to Tennessee for No. 40, No. 216, and a 2014 third-round pick. Tennessee selected Justin Hunter, while the 49ers took Tank Carradine and later Chris Borland with the future third. Hunter had useful stretches, but San Francisco's extra assets and Borland's outstanding rookie season created slightly more value.
San Francisco acquired the 55th pick in the 2013 draft from Green Bay for picks 61 and 173. The 49ers selected tight end Vance McDonald, while the Packers selected running back Eddie Lacy at 61 and later moved the 173rd pick. McDonald built a useful career, but Lacy's immediate impact, including a 1,000-yard rookie season and major offensive role, gives Green Bay the stronger return.
San Francisco moved up from No. 31 to No. 18 for safety Eric Reid, who became an immediate starter and Pro Bowler, so the 49ers received substantial value. Dallas still won the exchange by turning the return into center Travis Frederick and receiver Terrance Williams. Frederick became a five-time Pro Bowler and first-team All-Pro, while Williams added years of starting-caliber production. Both sides succeeded, but Dallas gained more.
San Francisco acquired Colt McCoy and the 173rd selection in 2013 for picks 164 and 227. McCoy supplied quarterback depth, while the sixth-rounder helped the 49ers move up for Vance McDonald in a separate exchange. That contribution matters, but it does not make McDonald's entire career the product of the McCoy deal.
Kansas City sent two second-round picks to San Francisco for Alex Smith. Smith immediately stabilized a team coming off a two-win season, led four winning campaigns in five years, and created the bridge to Patrick Mahomes. The 49ers received meaningful draft capital, making this a good sale that was still surpassed by Smith's franchise-changing value.
San Francisco acquired Anquan Boldin from Baltimore for a sixth-round pick immediately after Boldin helped the Ravens win Super Bowl XLVII. He became the 49ers’ leading receiver in 2013 with 85 catches, 1,179 yards and seven touchdowns, then re-signed and remained productive for two more seasons. Baltimore’s pick No. 199 was moved in another draft trade. The enormous difference in direct team value makes this a decisive 49ers win.
Carolina acquired safety Colin Jones from San Francisco for a 2014 seventh-round pick. Jones became a long-running Panthers special-teams contributor and reserve defensive back, remaining with the organization for years and appearing in more than 100 games. San Francisco eventually used the acquired pick on defensive lineman Kaleb Ramsey, who did not create comparable NFL value. For a minimal price, Carolina secured unusual longevity and dependable depth.
Carolina moved up for defensive end Frank Alexander, sending San Francisco a 2012 sixth-rounder and a 2013 third-rounder. Alexander supplied limited production before suspensions and availability problems ended his Panthers tenure. San Francisco's future third became much more valuable downstream: the 49ers paired pick No. 74 with No. 31 in 2013 to move up for safety Eric Reid, a Pro Bowl rookie and multi-year starter.
Miami sent picks No. 103 and No. 196 plus a 2013 sixth-rounder to San Francisco for No. 97 and selected Lamar Miller. Miller became the Dolphins' primary runner, topping 1,000 rushing yards in 2014 and finishing four Miami seasons with substantial rushing and receiving production. The 49ers recycled much of the return into additional draft moves, but none of the resulting value matched Miller's sustained offensive impact in Miami.
San Francisco moved up eight spots in the 2012 fourth round, sending picks No. 125 and No. 196 to Detroit for No. 117. The 49ers selected Joe Looney, while Detroit used its picks on Ronnell Lewis and Jonte Green. Looney's substantially longer NFL career gave San Francisco the most valuable realized asset and a clear hindsight win.
Indianapolis moved up to No. 92 in the 2012 draft and selected T.Y. Hilton, sending San Francisco pick No. 97 plus a 2013 fifth-round selection. Hilton became a four-time Pro Bowler and finished his Colts tenure with 631 receptions, 9,691 receiving yards and 53 touchdowns. That decade of high-end production overwhelms the respectable value San Francisco later extracted from its two draft assets.
Cincinnati Bengals received Taylor Mays in the 2011-08-23 exchange involving San Francisco 49ers. Mays remained with Cincinnati from 2011 through 2014, appearing in 50 regular-season games with four starts while contributing as defensive depth and on special teams. That realized return supports a C+ grade for Cincinnati Bengals. The overall verdict is Cincinnati Bengals Win, with the grade based on direct value created from this transaction.
Green Bay Packers received 2011 6th round pick (174th overall; subsequently traded by Green Bay) and 2011 7th round pick (231st overall; subsequently traded by Green Bay) in the 2011-04-30 exchange with San Francisco 49ers. Green Bay moved both acquired selections again, so later players tied to those pick numbers belong to later transactions. The direct package, rather than later movement of any acquired asset, is the basis for the hindsight judgment. Against what Green Bay Packers surrendered, the result supports San Francisco 49ers Win.
San Francisco paid picks Nos. 45, 108 and 141 to move to No. 36 for Colin Kaepernick. The quarterback became the centerpiece of a Super Bowl run and another NFC Championship appearance, giving the 49ers rare second-round upside. Denver received Rahim Moore and Quinton Carter plus a fifth-round asset, producing useful defensive starters but not the same franchise-level peak.
Jacksonville Jaguars received 2011 3rd round pick (76th overall, Will Rackley) in the 2011-04-29 exchange with San Francisco 49ers. Will Rackley started games for Jacksonville but did not sustain a long, high-impact run with the club. The direct package, rather than later movement of any acquired asset, is the basis for the hindsight judgment. Against what Jacksonville Jaguars surrendered, the result supports San Francisco 49ers Win.
San Francisco traded pick No. 79 to San Diego for Nos. 91 and 173 plus a 2011 fourth-rounder. The 49ers selected NaVorro Bowman, Anthony Dixon and Kendall Hunter. Bowman became a three-time Pro Bowler and four-time first-team All-Pro, anchoring an elite defense. The Chargers selected Donald Butler, a useful multi-year starting linebacker, but even a solid return could not approach Bowman's impact.
San Francisco moved from No. 13 to No. 11 for tackle Anthony Davis, sending Denver an additional fourth-round pick. Davis became a 71-game starter and helped the 49ers reach Super Bowl XLVII, so San Francisco received real value. Denver's two incoming picks fueled a larger draft chain that produced Demaryius Thomas, Eric Decker and capital used in the Tim Tebow move, creating the stronger overall return.
Miami traded Ted Ginn to San Francisco for a fifth-round pick and selected cornerback Nolan Carroll. Carroll became a four-year Dolphins contributor, eventually starting regularly in the secondary before continuing a long NFL career. Ginn gave the 49ers speed and valuable return work, including two return touchdowns in 2011, but his offensive role remained limited. Carroll’s larger defensive workload gives Miami the edge.
Detroit received Shaun Hill; San Francisco received a 2011 seventh-round pick that became No. 231 Frank Kearse. Hill became a valuable emergency starter immediately, making 10 starts and throwing for 2,686 yards with 16 touchdowns in 2010. San Francisco later moved the seventh-rounder as part of a draft-day trade-up. The hindsight grades are B for Detroit Lions and C+ for San Francisco 49ers, producing a Detroit Lions Win verdict.
San Francisco 49ers
Carolina traded its 2010 first-round pick to San Francisco for picks 43 and 111 in 2009, selecting Everette Brown and Mike Goodson. Brown never became the pass rusher the Panthers envisioned, while Goodson contributed mainly as a reserve. The future first landed at No. 17, where San Francisco selected guard Mike Iupati, a four-time Pro Bowler and first-team All-Pro, making the 49ers the decisive winner.
San Francisco 49ers received Darrell Jackson from Seattle Seahawks in the 2007-04-29 trade. San Francisco acquired Darrell Jackson, who started 15 games in 2007 and caught 46 passes for 497 yards and three touchdowns. Seattle Seahawks's return was 2007 4th round pick (124th overall, Mansfield Wrotto). Seattle received pick No. 124 and used it on Mansfield Wrotto. Those realized outcomes, rather than the labels on the assets alone, drive the hindsight grade.
San Francisco traded a 2007 fourth-rounder and its 2008 first-round pick to New England for No. 28, selecting left tackle Joe Staley. Staley became a six-time Pro Bowler and one of the defining 49ers of his era. New England turned the incoming picks into extraordinary downstream value, including the Randy Moss acquisition and draft capital that led to Jerod Mayo. Both teams won at an elite level.
San Francisco converted the No. 42 pick into two selections: No. 126 in 2007, used on Dashon Goldson, and No. 29 in 2008, used on Kentwan Balmer. Balmer never started a game for the 49ers, but Goldson developed into a multi-year starting safety and later an All-Pro-caliber player. That high-end Goldson outcome outweighed Tony Ugoh's shorter starting run in Indianapolis.
New York Jets received Kevan Barlow from San Francisco 49ers in the 2006-08-21 trade. The Jets acquired Kevan Barlow. San Francisco 49ers's return was 2007 4th round pick (124th overall subsequently traded, Mansfield Wrotto). San Francisco received pick No. 124 and later used it in the trade for Darrell Jackson. Those realized outcomes, rather than the labels on the assets alone, drive the hindsight grade.
Washington and San Francisco exchanged Mike Rumph and Taylor Jacobs in August 2006. Rumph appeared in seven games for Washington, recording 11 combined tackles and four passes defensed. Jacobs lasted into a second 49ers season but remained a minor receiving option, totaling seven catches for 69 yards and one touchdown across 12 games with San Francisco. Both clubs obtained some short-term depth, but neither return created enough value to separate the deal.
Cleveland Browns received Ken Dorsey plus the acquired seventh-round pick; San Francisco 49ers received Trent Dilfer. Dorsey made one Browns appearance in 2006 and later started three games in 2008; Cleveland traded the acquired No. 221 pick to Chicago for Lennie Friedman. Dilfer started six games for San Francisco in 2007, throwing for 1,166 yards, seven touchdowns and 12 interceptions. The realized returns support San Francisco 49ers Win, with Cleveland Browns graded C and San Francisco 49ers graded C+.
Jacksonville Jaguars received 2006 7th round pick (213th overall, James Wyche); 2006 7th round pick (236th overall, Dee Webb) in the 2006-04-30 exchange with San Francisco 49ers. James Wyche and Dee Webb had limited NFL careers, so Jacksonville's two seventh-round selections yielded little lasting return. The direct return and the football value it produced drive the hindsight judgment. Against the assets Jacksonville Jaguars surrendered, the result supports San Francisco 49ers Win and a C- grade for Jacksonville Jaguars.
San Francisco sent picks 37 and 68 to Denver for the 22nd selection in the 2006 draft and used it on linebacker Manny Lawson. Lawson became a long-lived NFL starter and contributor. Denver then turned No. 37 into Javon Walker and included No. 68 in a larger move that helped the Broncos climb for Jay Cutler, giving Denver greater flexibility and downstream value.
The Chargers received Rashaun Woods in the April 2006 swap but never got regular-season production from him. Woods was released before the season, so San Diego effectively gave up Sammy Davis without receiving a player who helped in games. That complete absence of realized value drives a D grade despite the modest scale of the transaction.
Washington acquired wide receiver Brandon Lloyd from San Francisco for a 2006 third-round pick and a 2007 fourth-round pick, a two-choice price that was larger than the old record showed. The 49ers' return was not a home run, yet Washington paid meaningful capital for very little production, making San Francisco the clear winner on cost and outcome.
San Francisco received the 2006 sixth-round choice used on Marcus Hudson. Hudson became a multi-season defensive back and special-teams contributor, giving the 49ers useful service from a late selection. The package is kept as one pick asset because the selected player is already represented inside that pick. That result supports a B- grade within the San Francisco 49ers Win verdict.
Jacksonville Jaguars received Jamie Winborn, who played only five games for Jacksonville before a knee injury sent him to injured reserve and did not become a long-term Jaguars contributor. The return earns a D+, versus B- for San Francisco 49ers, with a hindsight verdict of San Francisco 49ers Win. Concrete team-specific production and downstream results drive the grade.
Denver acquired John Engelberger from San Francisco for Willie Middlebrooks in July 2005. Engelberger stayed through 2008, appearing in 61 regular-season games and making 22 starts for the Broncos. Middlebrooks’ 49ers stint lasted only five games in 2005. Neither player became a star, but Denver received years of dependable defensive-line service from a straight player swap, creating a clear Broncos win on durability and usable snaps.
San Francisco moved up to No. 94 in the 2005 draft and selected offensive lineman Adam Snyder, sending Philadelphia picks No. 102 and No. 175. Snyder became a durable 49ers lineman and eventually logged 88 NFL starts. Philadelphia used No. 102 on safety Sean Considine and included No. 175 in a separate trade-up that produced pick No. 126, used on guard Todd Herremans.
Chicago Bears received Leon Joe and Claude Harriott; Joe played 24 games in two Chicago stints with modest defensive/special-teams production, while Harriott was released before the 2004 regular season and never played an NFL regular-season game. The team earns a C-, compared with B+ for San Francisco 49ers, and the hindsight verdict is San Francisco 49ers Win. That judgment reflects the concrete team-specific production, role and tenure created by the assets in this deal.
San Francisco moved down nine spots in the sixth round of the 2004 draft and received pick No. 188, used on punter Andy Lee, plus No. 226. Green Bay used No. 179 on defensive lineman Corey Williams. Lee became a three-time first-team All-Pro and longtime 49ers punter; Williams became a productive Packers starter and was later traded for a second-round pick. Both clubs created exceptional value from late selections.
Carolina moved from No. 31 to No. 28 in the 2004 draft, sending San Francisco the 31st pick and a fourth-rounder to select cornerback Chris Gamble. San Francisco used the return on receiver Rashaun Woods and linebacker Richard Seigler. Gamble became a nine-year Panthers starter with 27 interceptions, while neither 49ers selection developed into comparable value, making Carolina the clear winner.
Philadelphia moved from No. 28 to No. 16 in the 2004 draft, sending San Francisco the 28th and 58th selections. The Eagles chose guard Shawn Andrews, a two-time Pro Bowler and 2006 first-team All-Pro. San Francisco turned No. 28 into Rashaun Woods and Richard Seigler and used No. 58 on Shawntae Spencer, a 74-start cornerback, leaving Philadelphia with the better peak return.
The March 2004 Terrell Owens settlement sent Owens from Baltimore to Philadelphia, Brandon Whiting from the Eagles to San Francisco and a Philadelphia fifth-round pick to Baltimore, while the 49ers' earlier second-round compensation moved to the Ravens. For the Eagles and 49ers, the contrast became stark: Owens powered an NFC championship offense, while Whiting played only a small role in San Francisco.
San Francisco and Baltimore agreed on March 4, 2004 to exchange Terrell Owens for Baltimore's 2004 second-round pick, No. 51. The agreement did not survive the Owens contract dispute. A March 16 settlement overturned that deal, returned the second-round pick to Baltimore, and redirected Owens to Philadelphia, so the original 49ers-Ravens exchange produced no lasting transfer.
Denver acquired tight end Nate Jackson from San Francisco in August 2003 for a conditional 2004 draft choice. The condition never produced a conveyed pick, so Denver received the only realized football asset. Jackson gave the Broncos usable depth and special-teams value over multiple seasons, making a modest Denver win the most defensible hindsight result.
Miami Dolphins received a conditional 2003 pick that was not conveyed, while San Francisco 49ers received Cade McNown. The conditional pick was not conveyed and McNown never played a regular-season game for San Francisco, leaving both sides with little realized value. The hindsight grades are D for Miami Dolphins and D for San Francisco 49ers, producing a Even Trade verdict.
Buffalo moved up from the third round to pick No. 61 in the 2002 draft, sending San Francisco selections 69 and 102. The Bills selected defensive end Ryan Denney, who became a long-term rotational defender. San Francisco used its two picks on linebacker Saleem Rasheed and kicker Jeff Chandler, giving the 49ers two usable contributors from the move down.
Green Bay Packers received three higher selections in the 2001 draft in the 2001-04-21 exchange involving San Francisco 49ers. Green Bay used its return on Robert Ferguson, Bhawoh Jue and Bill Ferrario. Ferguson and Jue supplied useful NFL snaps, so the Packers received a meaningful package rather than a poor outcome. That realized return supports a B- grade for Green Bay Packers. The overall verdict is San Francisco 49ers Win, with the grade based on direct value created from this transaction.
San Francisco moved from No. 9 to No. 7 on April 21, 2001, sending Seattle picks No. 9, No. 82 and No. 222 for No. 7 and No. 191. The 49ers selected defensive end Andre Carter at No. 7; he started 66 of 69 regular-season games for San Francisco from 2001-05 and recorded 32 sacks, including 12.5 in 2002. No. 191 became Menson Holloway, who did not appear in an NFL regular-season game.
Chicago Bears received R.W. McQuarters; San Francisco 49ers received 2001 sixth-round pick No. 169, Cedrick Wilson. McQuarters played five seasons for Chicago, starting 47 games from 2000-04 and recording nine interceptions. Wilson played four seasons for San Francisco, catching 97 passes for 1,203 yards and six touchdowns from 2002-04, and started 15 games in 2004. The realized returns support Even Trade, with Chicago Bears graded B- and San Francisco 49ers graded B-.
San Francisco 49ers received 2001 7th round pick (224th overall, Eric Johnson) from Washington Commanders. San Francisco received the future seventh-round choice later used on Eric Johnson. Johnson developed into a productive multi-year 49er and posted a major receiving season in 2004, creating substantial value from a late pick. That outcome supports a B+ grade for San Francisco 49ers. The final verdict is San Francisco 49ers Win, based on the football value the club actually realized from the assets it controlled after the exchange.
New England received San Francisco's 2001 sixth-round pick, preserving future draft value from a late-round swap. The Patriots later moved that selection in another transaction, so the later player outcome is not credited directly here. Compared with Tim Rattay's multi-season 49ers service and 16 starts, New England's direct return was less substantial.
Green Bay Packers received 2000 4th round pick (98th overall, Na'il Diggs) in the 2000-04-16 exchange with San Francisco 49ers. Na'il Diggs became a six-year Packers starter and eventually played 170 NFL games. His sustained linebacker production gave Green Bay a clear return from moving up. The direct return and the football value it produced drive the hindsight judgment. Against the assets Green Bay Packers surrendered, the result supports Green Bay Packers Win and a A- grade for Green Bay Packers.
Chicago got no regular-season games from Frank Murphy, but its No. 209 pick became one half of a two-pick package that produced three later selections. That package helped bring punter Brent Bartholomew for seven games and safety Mike Green, who played 81 Bears games with 45 starts. Because No. 225 was also required, No. 209 gets only proportional credit. San Francisco received 18 reserve games from John Milem. Chicago edges it, C+ to C.
The Jets moved from No. 16 to No. 12 and drafted defensive end Shaun Ellis, a two-time Pro Bowler who played 184 career games and recorded 73.5 sacks. San Francisco moved back four spots, selected five-time Pro Bowler Julian Peterson, and added second-round cornerback Jason Webster. Ellis was an excellent return, but Peterson plus the extra starter gives the 49ers a narrow edge.
San Francisco sent the No. 3 pick in the 2000 draft to Washington on February 26 for first-round selections Nos. 12 and 24 plus fourth- and fifth-round choices that ultimately slotted at Nos. 119 and 154. Washington used No. 3 on Chris Samuels, while San Francisco spread its return across several draft assets. The long-term value supports an even result.
San Francisco 49ers
Miami acquired quarterback Jim Druckenmiller from San Francisco for a 2000 seventh-round choice that became long snapper Brian Jennings. Druckenmiller never appeared in a regular-season game for the Dolphins, while Jennings became a fixture for the 49ers for more than a decade. A low-cost quarterback flyer unexpectedly turned into one of the clearest special-teams value wins a seventh-round pick can produce.
Green Bay Packers received 2000 5th round pick (132nd overall subsequently traded, Paul Smith) in the deal with San Francisco 49ers. Green Bay later used the fifth-round asset as part of a move from pick 108 to 98, where the Packers selected linebacker Na'il Diggs. Diggs played 84 Packers games with 40 starts, giving Green Bay a durable downstream return. That outcome supports a A- for Green Bay Packers. The Green Bay Packers Win verdict weighs documented games, starts, production and connected draft value.
San Francisco traded fullback Marc Edwards to expansion Cleveland on April 18, 1999 for the Browns' fourth-round pick at No. 96. The 49ers immediately flipped No. 96 to Indianapolis for No. 99 and No. 171, selecting Anthony Parker and Tai Streets. Streets became the key return, producing 168 catches, 2,008 receiving yards and 13 touchdowns over five San Francisco seasons.
San Francisco traded pick No. 96 to Indianapolis on April 18, 1999 for picks No. 99 and No. 171. The Colts used No. 96 on defensive back Paul Miranda, who played five games for Indianapolis. The 49ers used No. 99 on Anthony Parker, whose rookie year was lost to a torn ACL, and No. 171 on Tai Streets, who became a productive five-year San Francisco receiver with 2,008 receiving yards and 13 touchdowns.
Miami moved down from No. 24 to No. 27 in the 1999 first round and received No. 134 from San Francisco. The 49ers selected defensive tackle Reggie McGrew, while Miami later moved No. 27 again and used the fifth-rounder on Cecil Collins. McGrew played 24 career games and Collins eight, leaving little sustained original-team value on either side.
Miami sent a fifth-round choice to San Francisco for veteran guard Kevin Gogan. Gogan gave the Dolphins ten starts in 1999 before leaving after one season, a useful short-term reinforcement. San Francisco used pick No. 157 on Terry Jackson, who remained with the 49ers for seven seasons and appeared in 100 games, mostly as a reserve and special-teams contributor. Longevity gives San Francisco the edge.
Cleveland acquired Ty Detmer and a fourth-round pick later used on linebacker Wali Rainer while sending San Francisco two 1999 draft choices. Detmer provided a short bridge at quarterback, but Rainer became the real return, starting 44 games for the Browns over three seasons. San Francisco received useful draft capital, including a pick later folded into another move, yet Cleveland extracted the clearer direct football value and earns the win.
Cleveland acquired Roy Barker and Irv Smith from San Francisco for “past considerations” during the Browns’ 1999 expansion build. Smith started all 13 games he played for Cleveland and caught 24 passes for 222 yards and a touchdown; Barker added 12 games, three starts and two sacks. San Francisco received no new player or draft pick, but the move helped unload $3.775 million in contracts after Cleveland had already relieved another $3.024 million by selecting Antonio Langham.
Denver sent reserve tackle Jamie Brown to San Francisco for a 1999 second-round pick that became defensive tackle Montae Reagor at No. 58. Brown started five games for the 49ers in 1998 and was gone after the season, while Reagor developed into a long-term NFL contributor. Denver converted a depth lineman into premium draft capital and clearly produced the stronger lasting return.
San Francisco reacquired linebacker Tony Peterson from Chicago for the No. 217 pick in the 1998 draft. Peterson played 28 regular-season games over the next two 49ers seasons, while Chicago used the seventh-round selection on Chad Overhauser, who never appeared in a Bears regular-season game.
San Francisco moved up two spots in the second round on April 19, 1997, sending Philadelphia picks No. 57, No. 190 and No. 227 for No. 55. The 49ers selected Notre Dame fullback Marc Edwards. Edwards played 31 regular-season games with 11 starts over two San Francisco seasons, rushing for 111 yards and one touchdown while catching 28 passes for 266 yards and two scores. He became a useful starting fullback in 1998 before leaving for Cleveland.
San Francisco traded picks No. 86 and No. 156 to Indianapolis on April 19, 1997 for pick No. 77. The 49ers selected tight end Greg Clark, who played four seasons for San Francisco and started 39 of 55 regular-season games. Indianapolis used the return on Bertrand Berry and Carl Powell; Berry played 42 Colts games with 13 starts, while Powell appeared in 11 games before continuing his career elsewhere.
San Francisco sent Miami a 1997 fourth-round pick for running back Terry Kirby shortly before the 1996 season. Kirby immediately produced 998 yards from scrimmage in 14 regular-season games for the 49ers, adding receiving value to a championship-caliber offense. Miami gained a future pick that was later traded, but San Francisco received the more tangible and useful direct return.
San Francisco moved from No. 46 to No. 57 and also sent Oakland the 124th pick, selecting defensive end Israel Ifeanyi at 46. Ifeanyi’s NFL career was brief and injuries prevented the 49ers from getting lasting value. Oakland used No. 57 on Lance Johnstone, who became a productive pass rusher, while No. 124 remained useful trade currency. The Raiders received the best player and an extra asset, making this a clear Oakland win.
San Francisco jumped from No. 30 to No. 10 for wide receiver J.J. Stokes, sending Cleveland its 1995 first-, third- and fourth-round picks plus a 1996 first-rounder. Stokes had a respectable 118-game career, but the future first became No. 26 in 1996 and was used by the relocated franchise on Ray Lewis. The extraordinary package makes Cleveland's side the decisive winner.
Detroit Lions received 1995 5th round pick (163rd overall, Ronald Cherry). Detroit received fifth-round pick No. 163 and used it on Ronald Cherry, who did not become a meaningful NFL contributor. That result supports a C- for Detroit Lions. The overall comparison favors San Francisco 49ers, leaving Detroit Lions on the weaker side of the exchange. 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.
Kansas City acquired quarterback Steve Bono from San Francisco on May 22, 1994, for a 1995 fourth-round pick. Bono became the Chiefs' starter in 1995, made the Pro Bowl and helped produce a 13-3 season. San Francisco later used the No. 119 pick as part of its package to move up for J.J. Stokes. Kansas City received the clearer direct impact and wins the trade.
San Francisco moved from No. 15 to No. 7 in the 1994 first round and used the higher pick on defensive tackle Bryant Young, while the Rams collected No. 15 plus second- and third-round selections. Wayne Gandy became a long-term starter, but Young developed into a Hall of Fame cornerstone, giving San Francisco the stronger return despite the Rams' useful volume.
San Francisco traded linebacker Bill Romanowski to Philadelphia during the 1994 draft for the Eagles' third-round pick at No. 100 and sixth-round pick at No. 190. The 49ers immediately reused both selections in separate draft-day packages, with No. 100 helping them move up for Bryant Young and No. 190 helping them move up for Kevin Mitchell. The picks became useful transaction capital rather than direct selections.
Dallas moved up from No. 28 to No. 23 and selected Shante Carver, while also receiving the later No. 217 selection. Carver did not become a long-term impact player for Dallas, so the value gained from moving up fell short of what San Francisco ultimately realized from the picks it received. That outcome supports a C grade for Dallas Cowboys within the final San Francisco 49ers Win verdict.
Green Bay Packers received 1994 3rd round pick (84th overall, LeShon Johnson), 1994 5th round pick (149th overall, Dorsey Levens), and 1994 6th round pick (175th overall, Ruffin Hamilton) in the 1994-04-24 exchange with San Francisco 49ers. Dorsey Levens became a major Packers offensive contributor and long-tenured back, creating the decisive realized value in the exchange. That gives Green Bay Packers the stronger overall return.
Denver acquired nose tackle Ted Washington and the 99th pick in the 1994 draft from San Francisco for picks No. 87 and No. 149. Washington started 15 games for Denver that season, while the Broncos soon used No. 99 in the Mike Pritchard trade. San Francisco received limited direct production from Cory Fleming and later moved No. 149. Denver gets a modest but clear edge.
Las Vegas Raiders received 1994 fourth round pick (#126 subsequently traded, Gabe Wilkins). The Raiders received San Francisco's 1994 fourth-round choice, No. 126. Oakland later transferred that selection to Green Bay, which used it on Gabe Wilkins, so Wilkins is asset-history context rather than direct Raiders player value. Even so, Oakland retained useful draft capital while Fernandez never produced a regular-season return for San Francisco. That result supports a B- grade for Las Vegas Raiders.
San Diego acquired the 222nd pick in 1993 and used it on quarterback Trent Green, sending San Francisco a 1994 sixth-round choice that became No. 175. Green later enjoyed a long, productive NFL career, but not for the Chargers, while San Francisco later moved the future sixth. Because neither franchise directly captured the famous downstream player value attached to its asset, the trade itself finished as a modest draw.
San Francisco sent two 1993 third-round selections to the Raiders for pick No. 41, then immediately moved that pick to San Diego for a 1994 first-rounder. The Raiders' returned slots became tied to Vincent Brisby and Earl Dotson, but both players were ultimately selected by other clubs. San Francisco's future first became useful capital in the later move for Bryant Young, giving the 49ers a narrow edge.
Phoenix moved from No. 20 to No. 18 in the 1993 first round, sending San Francisco No. 20 and No. 116. The Cardinals selected tackle Ernest Dye. San Francisco immediately flipped No. 20 to New Orleans for No. 26 and No. 81, then drafted Dana Stubblefield at No. 26 while also owning No. 116. Stubblefield's impact makes this a decisive 49ers win.
San Diego moved from No. 48 to No. 41 in the 1993 draft for Natrone Means and sent San Francisco its 1994 first-round pick. Means became a Pro Bowl back and helped the Chargers reach Super Bowl XXIX. The future first also helped the 49ers trade up for Bryant Young. Both teams created major value, but San Diego receives the narrow edge for the best direct return.
Kansas City turned the 18th pick in the 1993 draft into Joe Montana, safety David Whitmore and San Francisco’s 1994 third-round pick. Montana immediately changed the franchise’s trajectory, leading the Chiefs to consecutive playoff appearances and the 1993 AFC Championship Game. Even at the end of his career, acquiring a Hall of Fame quarterback for one first-rounder produced exactly the short-term contention Kansas City wanted.
Minnesota acquired running back Keith Henderson from San Francisco on September 16, 1992, for a 1993 eighth-round pick. Henderson's NFL career effectively ended that season, limiting the Vikings' return. The 49ers used pick No. 219 on quarterback Elvis Grbac, who became a useful backup behind Steve Young and made starts for San Francisco. That direct quarterback depth gives the 49ers a clear win.
Dallas acquired Charles Haley for two mid-round picks and added the pass-rushing force its young defense needed. Haley became a central piece of three Cowboys championship teams. San Francisco received Vincent Brisby and additional pick value, providing some production, but the 49ers strengthened their primary NFC rival at the worst possible time.
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.
Green Bay turned picks Nos. 103, 130 and 157 into Edgar Bennett, Orlando McKay and Mark Chmura. Bennett became a productive multi-year back, while Chmura developed into a three-time Pro Bowl tight end and important part of Green Bay's championship-era offense. Those two hits created far more durable value than San Francisco realized from its return.
San Francisco acquired pass rusher Tim Harris from Green Bay on September 30, 1991 for a 1992 second-round choice and a 1993 pick that became another second-rounder. Harris played 11 games in 1991, recorded 17 sacks in 1992, and later returned for a productive 1994 postseason. The 1992 selection also came back to San Francisco through compensation tied to Green Bay's hiring of Mike Holmgren.
Phoenix traded running back Terrence Flagler to San Francisco on August 12, 1991, for a conditional draft choice that was not ultimately exercised. Flagler was cut by the 49ers later that month and soon returned to Phoenix, so the Cardinals received no draft asset and quickly regained the player. The unusual sequence left Phoenix with little lasting gain or loss.
Green Bay moved up to No. 81 in the 1991 draft and selected running back Chuck Webb, who appeared in only two NFL games. San Francisco received picks No. 95 and No. 122, selecting Mitch Donahue and Merton Hanks. Hanks became a four-time Pro Bowler, first-team All-Pro and member of the 49ers' Super Bowl XXIX championship team.
Miami acquired cornerback Tim McKyer from San Francisco on April 23, 1990, for an eleventh-round pick that became Anthony Shelton and a 1991 second-rounder that became No. 52, Lamar Rogers. The 49ers later paired that second-round pick with another choice to move up for Ricky Watters. McKyer's Miami stay was short, while San Francisco converted the premium asset into valuable draft leverage.
The Raiders moved down from No. 92 and collected Nos. 109 and 137, which became Rico Labbe and Leroy Holt. Trading one fourth-round choice for a later fourth and a fifth was sound value on paper, but the additional selections did not create a meaningful long-term payoff. San Francisco at least used the move to target Dean Caliguire, leaving Oakland slightly behind in realized value.
Dallas acquired Terrence Flagler and Daniel Stubbs from San Francisco before the 1990 draft, while the 49ers received picks No. 47 and No. 68 and returned picks No. 81 and No. 304. San Francisco turned the premium selections into Dennis Brown and Ron Lewis. Brown became a long-term defensive contributor, while Dallas got a shorter burst of value, giving the 49ers the stronger result.
San Francisco 49ers
The Raiders moved down from pick No. 289 and received 1989 pick No. 335 plus a 1990 twelfth-round choice. Those selections became Everett Ross and Demetrius Davis, neither of whom produced an NFL regular-season career. Oakland gained an extra draft chance, but the additional volume did not turn into realized league value.
San Francisco acquired the 122nd pick in the 1989 draft from the Raiders and used it on defensive back Johnny Jackson. The Raiders received Nos. 139 and 223, selecting Lybrant Robinson and Tony Zackery. None of the three selections developed into a major NFL contributor, so the extra pick obtained by the Raiders did not create a meaningful long-term advantage over San Francisco's move up.
San Francisco sent linebacker Milt McColl to the Raiders in July 1988 and received a 1989 twelfth-round choice that became No. 319, Antonio Goss. Oakland obtained an experienced defender for the 1988 season, while San Francisco converted a veteran roster asset into a future selection. The late-round return gives the 49ers a narrow value edge rather than a decisive win.
On 1988-06-08, Atlanta Falcons received Tim Foley, while San Francisco 49ers received 1989 conditional tenth round draft choice (final conveyance not established). The final verdict is Even Trade, with Atlanta Falcons graded C and San Francisco 49ers graded C. The hindsight view follows the documented consideration and later traceable value without treating every named pick outcome as if it had been directly exchanged on trade day. Any conditional, undisclosed, or unidentified component is credited only to the extent that the surviving evidence establishes it.
San Francisco acquired safety Bo Eason from the Houston Oilers on June 6, 1988 for a conditional 1989 fifth-round draft choice tied to Eason making the roster. Eason entered camp as an experienced former second-round pick but suffered a knee injury before appearing in a 49ers regular-season game. The exact downstream Houston selection is not identified in the reviewed record.
San Diego sent Wes Chandler to San Francisco with Fred Quillan initially heading the other way. When Quillan did not remain with the Chargers, the protected terms produced 1989 and 1990 seventh-round selections instead. Those picks became Terrance Jones and Keith Collins and did not match Chandler's remaining contribution. The conditional structure protected San Diego from receiving nothing, but San Francisco still secured the stronger practical return.
San Francisco moved up to pick No. 39 in the 1988 draft and selected defensive lineman Pierce Holt, sending Tampa Bay picks No. 53 and No. 107. Holt became a long-term NFL starter and finished his career with 37 sacks, including productive seasons for the 49ers. Tampa used its selections on running back Lars Tate and punter Monte Robbins. Tate contributed, but Holt's sustained defensive value gave San Francisco the stronger return.
San Francisco traded the No. 26 pick in 1988 to the Raiders for wide receiver Dokie Williams plus selections No. 33 and No. 102. The 49ers used those picks on Danny Stubbs and Barry Helton, receiving pass-rush help and three seasons of punting from the package. The Raiders used No. 26 on Scott Davis, who recorded 27.5 sacks in 75 games.
San Francisco traded linebacker James Johnson to San Diego during the 1987 strike period after Johnson had appeared once for the 49ers replacement squad. Contemporary reporting described the return as a future draft choice, while a transaction ledger records only past considerations. Johnson then appeared in one Chargers game. With no evidence of sustained San Diego production, the modest return still leaves San Francisco with the better realized side.
The Jets traded Johnny "Lam" Jones to San Francisco on July 23, 1987 for a 1988 draft choice that became fifth-round pick No. 131. Onzy Elam was not part of the return; New York signed its own third-round draftee that same day. Jones was released by the 49ers before the season, while the Jets recycled No. 131 in a later draft move, giving New York a B- to D+ win.
Seattle acquired quarterback Jeff Kemp from San Francisco on May 19, 1987, for a 1988 fifth-round pick that became No. 131 overall. Kemp served as a multi-year Seahawks backup and provided useful spot-starting insurance, including five starts in 1991. For a fifth-round price, that amount of veteran quarterback utility gave Seattle the stronger return.
San Francisco acquired Steve Young from Tampa Bay for a second-round pick, a fourth-round pick, and cash, then had the luxury of developing him behind Joe Montana. Young eventually became a league MVP, a Super Bowl-winning starter, and a Hall of Famer, giving the 49ers one of the greatest quarterback succession outcomes in NFL history. The modest acquisition cost compared with Young's eventual peak makes this an overwhelming San Francisco win.
San Francisco acquired defensive lineman Keith Browner from Tampa Bay for a 1988 sixth-round selection, No. 163, which became Shawn Lee. Browner gave the 49ers an experienced defensive option at a low acquisition cost, while Tampa Bay converted him into a legitimate draft choice. Lee later had a substantial NFL career, though much of it came away from the Buccaneers. The immediate transaction still tilts slightly toward San Francisco.
San Francisco traded Joe Conwell's NFL negotiation rights to Philadelphia on August 20, 1986 for the Eagles' 1987 eleventh-round pick. Conwell signed immediately and became useful offensive-line depth, playing 28 games with 21 starts over two Eagles seasons. San Francisco later moved the acquired pick to the Raiders, who used No. 288 on Chris McLemore, so McLemore was not a 49ers selection. Philadelphia clearly received the stronger direct return.
San Francisco acquired running back Joe Cribbs from Buffalo on August 19, 1986 for a 1987 third-round pick and a 1988 fifth-round pick. Cribbs gave the 49ers two useful seasons, totaling 890 rushing yards with six rushing touchdowns plus receiving production. Buffalo used No. 78 on Jamie Mueller, a 57-game fullback and 32-game starter, while No. 135 Kirk Roach never played an NFL regular-season game, balancing the returns.
Buffalo moved up to No. 20 in the 1986 draft and selected tackle Will Wolford, also receiving a 1987 tenth-rounder. San Francisco received picks No. 29 and No. 56, using the latter on fullback Tom Rathman. Wolford became a Pro Bowl-caliber blind-side tackle for Buffalo, while Rathman became an important piece of championship offenses, making the exchange valuable for both clubs.
Los Angeles received the 71st pick in the 1986 draft and used it on quarterback Hugh Millen. San Francisco received the rights to Jeff Kemp plus picks No. 96 and No. 101, selections that became Charles Haley and Steve Wallace. Haley developed into a Hall of Fame pass rusher and Wallace into a long-term starting tackle, making this an overwhelming 49ers victory.
Dallas moved from No. 18 to No. 20 in the 1986 first round and selected Mike Sherrard, while San Francisco received No. 20 plus No. 131. Sherrard had a strong 744-yard rookie season before repeated leg injuries erased his remaining Dallas production. San Francisco repeatedly flipped the acquired draft capital, eventually helping produce Tom Rathman, Charles Haley and Steve Wallace, creating a dramatically stronger long-term return.
Philadelphia acquired quarterback Matt Cavanaugh from San Francisco during the 1986 draft, sending the 49ers a 1986 third-round pick and a 1987 second-round pick. Cavanaugh provided veteran quarterback depth but only limited starting production in Philadelphia. The Eagles received a usable player, yet the two-pick price became much more valuable once San Francisco converted the selections into Tim McKyer and Jeff Bregel.
Detroit traded picks No. 39 and No. 71 to San Francisco for No. 29 in the 1986 draft and selected running back Garry James, who became a Lions starter and produced a 140-yard game as a rookie. San Francisco drafted Larry Roberts at No. 39 and flipped No. 71 to the Rams in a deal that produced Charles Haley and Steve Wallace draft capital, creating far greater long-term value.
Washington paid a 1986 tenth-round pick and its 1987 first-rounder to San Francisco for the 45th selection in 1986, using that pick on receiver Walter Murray. Murray never signed with Washington and was later moved to Indianapolis. San Francisco secured valuable future first-round capital without surrendering a proven player, giving the 49ers the clear advantage.
San Francisco 49ers received Tory Nixon in the 1985-09-03 exchange with Washington, giving up 1986 sixth round pick (#156-Jim Huddleston). San Francisco acquired Tory Nixon, who appeared in 50 regular-season games for the 49ers and made three interceptions, including an 88-yard touchdown return. That return supports a B grade for San Francisco 49ers. The final verdict is San Francisco 49ers Win, based on the football value tied directly to the assets in this deal.
San Francisco traded wide receiver Keith Baker to Philadelphia on August 30, 1985 for the 1986 eighth-round pick that became No. 203, Jim Popp. Baker gave the Eagles eight games, one start and two receptions for 25 yards that season. Popp signed with the 49ers after the draft but was released before the 1986 regular season and never played an NFL game for San Francisco. Philadelphia earned the modest but clear realized-value edge.
San Francisco acquired Jim Leonard and received nine games of service from him in 1985. The contribution was modest, but it was real regular-season value from a late-round transaction. Because Tampa Bay's acquired twelfth-round selection became Mike Crawford, who produced no regular-season Buccaneers value, the 49ers finished slightly ahead.
New York Jets received Billy Shields; San Francisco 49ers received 1986 sixth-round pick No. 162, Don Griffin. Shields played three Jets games with two starts in 1985. Griffin became an eight-year 49ers cornerback, playing 114 games and starting 107. The realized outcomes support San Francisco 49ers Win, with New York Jets graded D+ and San Francisco 49ers graded A-.
Atlanta acquired defensive lineman Lawrence Pillers from San Francisco for linebacker Fulton Kuykendall in July 1985. Pillers appeared in nine games for the Falcons that season and recorded two sacks, giving Atlanta at least a useful rotational return. Kuykendall's 49ers tenure amounted to one game. The stakes were modest, but Atlanta clearly received more on-field value from the player-for-player exchange.
San Francisco traded running back Mark Schellen to San Diego on May 20, 1985 for a 1986 12th-round draft choice. The Chargers' official trade history confirms the exchange. Schellen spent the 1985 season on injured reserve and did not appear on San Diego's regular-season roster; the Chargers then traded him to Houston in May 1986. The exact 49ers selection from the 12th-round pick remains unidentified.
San Francisco moved from No. 28 to No. 16 in the 1985 draft by sending New England its first-, second- and third-round selections, while also receiving a Patriots third-rounder. The 49ers used No. 16 on Jerry Rice, who became the most productive receiver in NFL history and a franchise cornerstone. No plausible value from New England's return approaches that outcome.
San Diego received 1986 fifth- and eleventh-round selections that became Donald Brown and Drew Smetana. Those choices did not produce a return comparable with the immediate pass-rush value Gary Johnson supplied in San Francisco. The D+ grade reflects the limited payoff from the two picks and the clear realized-value gap favoring the 49ers.
Buffalo traded veteran cornerback Mario Clark to San Francisco on July 16, 1984 for a 1985 fourth-round pick, No. 112 overall. The Bills used the selection on Dale Hellestrae, who had only a small early role in Buffalo before later building a long career elsewhere. Clark contributed immediately to San Francisco’s championship season, giving the 49ers the better direct return.
Atlanta moved down and selected Cliff Benson at No. 132 and Dan Ralph at No. 163. Their combined NFL contribution was limited, leaving the Falcons without a meaningful long-term return from two selections. Because San Francisco used the pick it acquired on an elite, championship-era defender, the gap in realized football value is unusually large for a fifth-round trade.
The Raiders moved from No. 51 to Nos. 56 and 139 in the 1984 draft, while San Francisco used No. 51 on Sean Jones. Jones gave the Raiders 59 games, 32 starts and 31 sacks before continuing a long NFL career. The 49ers selected John Frank and Jeff Fuller, two useful multi-year contributors. Both clubs converted their draft positions into substantial value.
San Francisco acquired the No. 73 pick from St. Louis in the 1984 draft for Nos. 80 and 136. The 49ers used No. 73 on guard Guy McIntyre, who became a five-time Pro Bowler and a fixture on multiple championship teams. St. Louis selected Rick McIvor and John Goode with the return, neither of whom approached McIntyre’s sustained impact. San Francisco won decisively.
Denver acquired Eason Ramson from San Francisco for the 1984 fifth-round choice that became No. 132 Cliff Benson. Ramson never appeared in a regular-season game for Denver, so the Broncos received no sustained on-field return. The surrendered draft capital later helped San Francisco move up for Michael Carter, leaving Denver with the clearly weaker realized outcome.
Seattle traded defensive lineman Manu Tuiasosopo to San Francisco in April 1984 for a fourth-round pick, No. 86 Rickey Hagood, and a 1985 tenth-round pick, No. 280 James 'Chip' Bowers. Tuiasosopo immediately started all 16 games for the 15-1 Super Bowl champion 49ers, making San Francisco's veteran acquisition the defining value in the deal.
San Diego received three selections for Louie Kelcher, but the resulting players produced no Chargers regular-season appearances: Bob Craighead and the No. 331 receiver never logged an NFL game, while Dan Remsberg was released before the 1985 season. Kelcher played all 16 games for San Francisco's Super Bowl XIX champions. That concrete imbalance drops the Chargers to D and changes the verdict to a 49ers win.
Miami traded punter Tom Orosz to San Francisco near the end of the 1983 preseason for a 1984 twelfth-round selection. The Dolphins used No. 320 on William Devane, who did not establish an NFL career. Orosz, meanwhile, handled punting duties for the 49ers during the 1983 season and remained with the club into 1984, giving San Francisco the only meaningful professional return.
San Francisco acquired Matt Cavanaugh from New England in 1983 for three future selections: 1984 seventh-round No. 192 Derwin Williams, 1985 eighth-round No. 224 Milford Hodge and 1986 seventh-round No. 187 Ray McDonald. Cavanaugh provided useful quarterback depth on strong 49ers teams, while the Patriots' picks produced less durable value, giving San Francisco the edge.
San Francisco returned guard Jeff Williams to Chicago on May 16, 1983 after he failed the 49ers' physical and received Bears ninth- and twelfth-round selections in the 1984 draft as settlement. Those became No. 239 Lee Miller and No. 320. Miller never recorded an NFL regular-season appearance, but San Francisco traded No. 320 to Miami for punter Tom Orosz, who handled all 16 regular-season games for the 49ers in 1983 and two more in 1984.
San Francisco's April 26, 1983 trade for guard Jeff Williams was unwound after Williams failed the 49ers' physical. Chicago had already received 1983 picks No. 235 and No. 313, used on Mark Zavagnin and Oliver Williams. On May 16 the clubs resolved the failed trade by returning Williams to Chicago and awarding San Francisco 1984 ninth- and twelfth-round choices, later Nos. 239 and 320. The 49ers used No. 320 to acquire punter Tom Orosz, who played 18 games for San Francisco across 1983-84.
San Francisco 49ers received 1984 fourth round pick (#86-Rickey Hagood). San Francisco received Tampa Bay's 1984 fourth-round choice, later No. 86. The 49ers subsequently used that selection in another transaction rather than receiving the eventual drafted player directly. The important point is that San Francisco controlled a fourth-round asset with continued trade value, which was more useful than Tampa Bay's short-lived return. That stronger outcome supports a B- grade for San Francisco 49ers.
The Rams sent Wendell Tyler, veteran lineman Cody Jones and the No. 59 pick to San Francisco for picks No. 36 and No. 87 in the 1983 draft. Los Angeles used No. 36 on linebacker Mike Wilcher, who became a long-term starter and pass rusher for the Rams. Chuck Nelson was the other selection, giving Los Angeles substantial return from the package.
San Diego moved up from the second round to No. 22 in 1983, sending San Francisco both No. 49 and No. 36. The Chargers selected cornerback Gill Byrd, who became a franchise standout and intercepted 42 passes in his career. That is an excellent result, but the 49ers received Roger Craig plus another second-round asset that they immediately used in the Wendell Tyler deal.
San Francisco and St. Louis exchanged George Collins and Dan Audick in April 1983. Each club received a veteran player who offered depth, but neither side generated a lasting value advantage or meaningful downstream asset. With the transaction limited to the two players and the post-trade outcomes remaining close, an even C/C grade best reflects the modest result.
Los Angeles Chargers received 1983 eighth round pick (#202-Earnest Jackson) and 1985 seventh round pick (#196-Mark Fellows). The Chargers received the eighth-round choice that became Earnest Jackson and a later seventh-round choice. Jackson became a 1,000-yard rusher for San Diego and was later moved for additional draft capital, creating substantial value from a late selection. Jackson's production and later trade value created a major advantage for the Chargers over Horn's brief San Francisco tenure. That outcome supports an A grade for Los Angeles Chargers.
San Francisco acquired tight end Russ Francis and the No. 29 pick from New England in 1982, then used the selection on tackle Bubba Paris. Both became important contributors on championship teams. New England received picks Nos. 27, 41, 55 and 111, producing Lester Williams, Andre Tippett, Darryl Haley and Brian Ingram, with Tippett becoming the defining asset.
Cleveland acquired kicker Matt Bahr from San Francisco in October 1981 for a 1983 ninth-round draft choice. Bahr became a long-term Browns fixture, playing 115 games for Cleveland and entering 1990 as the franchise's all-time leader in field-goal percentage. San Francisco later moved the late pick in another transaction, but the original return never approached Bahr's nine-season value. Cleveland earns a strong A- to C win.
San Francisco acquired Hall of Fame pass rusher Fred Dean during the 1981 season and added the missing pressure piece to Bill Walsh's rising team. Dean helped power the 49ers' first Super Bowl run, later contributed to another championship, and gave San Francisco a dynasty-level defensive edge. The Chargers received pick value, but nothing close to Dean's immediate title impact or historical legacy.
Los Angeles Chargers received 1984 fourth round pick (#107-Micheal Gunter / Michael Gunter / Mike Gunter). The Chargers received San Francisco's 1984 fourth-round choice, later No. 107. That pick remained an asset the club could move again, and it was later transferred to Tampa Bay. The Chargers therefore preserved useful draft flexibility, while Amos Lawrence did not deliver regular-season production for San Francisco. That gives Los Angeles the better practical return. That stronger outcome supports a B- grade for Los Angeles Chargers.
San Francisco 49ers acquired fullback Johnny Davis from Tampa Bay in an August 31, 1981 player-for-player swap, sending James Owens to the Buccaneers. Davis became a useful part of the eventual Super Bowl champion 49ers, contributing as a runner, receiver and backfield contributor. His direct role on a title team supports a B+ and makes San Francisco's side fully worthwhile.
Denver acquired Steve DeBerg from San Francisco for a 1983 fourth-round draft choice. DeBerg provided useful quarterback starts across multiple seasons and gave the Broncos meaningful direct service from the transaction. The draft asset ultimately corresponded to No. 87 Chuck Nelson after later movement, but San Francisco did not retain comparable realized value from the original consideration.
San Diego sent Dan Audick to San Francisco for a 1982 third-round selection, later No. 83 and associated with John Cannon. The Chargers eventually used that pick in a separate transaction, while the 49ers received immediate offensive-line help. Keeping the later Tampa Bay deal outside the direct compensation shows a straightforward player-for-pick exchange with no clear long-term winner.
New Orleans received the 1982 sixth-round pick used on Craig Bingham, while San Francisco received quarterback Guy Benjamin. Benjamin appeared in four games for the 1981 49ers and completed 15 of 26 passes for 171 yards with one touchdown and one interception. Bingham produced no Saints regular-season contribution. Those outcomes support San Francisco C+, New Orleans C-, and a 49ers win.
San Francisco 49ers received 1982 tenth round pick (#269-Dana McLemore). San Francisco used the tenth-round choice on Dana McLemore, who spent six seasons with the 49ers, contributed on defense and returns, and earned a Super Bowl XIX ring. That outcome supports a A- grade because the return is measured by the direct football value San Francisco 49ers actually received after the deal, compared with the asset sent the other way.
Chicago moved from No. 40 to No. 38 in the 1981 draft and selected Mike Singletary, the future Hall of Fame middle linebacker who made 10 consecutive Pro Bowls and won two Defensive Player of the Year awards. San Francisco still received enormous value at No. 40 with cornerback Eric Wright, a two-time Pro Bowler and four-time Super Bowl champion. The Bears win, but both teams struck gold.
Baltimore traded defensive tackle Jim Krahl to San Francisco on September 23, 1980 for a 1981 tenth-round pick. Krahl appeared in two games for the 49ers without a start, so the return was small. The Colts used No. 256 on linebacker Greg Gerken, who did not play an NFL regular-season game. San Francisco gets a narrow win because it received the only measurable NFL contribution.
San Francisco sent fullback Wilbur Jackson to Washington for second-round picks in 1981 and 1982. The first became John Harty; the second was later packaged with another choice to acquire the pick used on Bubba Paris. Jackson immediately produced more than 1,100 yards from scrimmage for Washington in 1980, but San Francisco's two premium selections created the stronger long-term asset value.
Oakland acquired veteran defensive end Cedrick Hardman from San Francisco in 1980 for two future picks: 1982 sixth-round No. 151 Vince Williams and 1983 fifth-round No. 138 Dokie Williams. Hardman immediately joined a Raiders team that won Super Bowl XV and provided useful pass-rush depth, while the 49ers' selections produced less lasting value.
Dallas Cowboys received 1981 fourth round pick (#91-Scott Pelluer) from San Francisco 49ers, sending Thomas Henderson the other way. The realized team value therefore points clearly toward the Cowboys rather than the current 49ers verdict. That outcome supports a B- grade for Dallas Cowboys, and the overall verdict is Dallas Cowboys Win.
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.
Las Vegas Raiders received 1980 eighth round pick (#194-Ken Hill / Kenny Hill) from San Francisco 49ers in the 1980-04-30 trade. San Francisco turned its side of the draft-only swap into Bobby Leopold and Dan Hartwig at Nos. 210 and 237. San Francisco 49ers's return was 1980 eighth round pick (#210-Bobby Leopold), 1980 ninth round pick (#237-Dan Hartwig). The Raiders received No. 194 and selected Ken Hill. Those realized outcomes, rather than the labels on the assets alone, drive the hindsight grade.
The Jets moved from No. 13 to No. 2 in the 1980 draft and selected receiver Johnny 'Lam' Jones, sending San Francisco both the No. 13 and No. 20 first-round picks. Jones played 61 NFL games but never became the star expected from the second overall choice. San Francisco selected Earl Cooper and Jim Stuckey, two important contributors to its emerging championship roster.
The Rams sent veteran tight end Charle Young plus 1980 third- and fourth-round picks to San Francisco for the No. 58 pick in 1980 and a 1983 third-rounder. Los Angeles used No. 58 on Jewerl Thomas, who rushed for 427 yards as a rookie, and later used the future selection in another trade. The Rams received useful value, but Young became the strongest direct contributor.
Minnesota moved up nine spots in the second round of the 1980 draft to select defensive back Willie Teal, sending San Francisco picks No. 39 and 65. Teal became a productive Vikings starter and intercepted 15 passes in his NFL career. The 49ers used No. 39 on Keena Turner, an 11-year cornerstone and four-time Super Bowl champion, making San Francisco’s return clearly superior.
New York Giants received Tony Dungy, Mike Hogan from San Francisco 49ers in the 1980-03-27 trade. San Francisco acquired Ray Rhodes and Jimmy Robinson. San Francisco 49ers's return was Ray Rhodes, Jimmy Robinson. New York acquired Tony Dungy and Mike Hogan. Those realized outcomes, rather than the labels on the assets alone, drive the hindsight grade.
Cincinnati Bengals received 1981 ninth round pick (#230-Samoa Samoa), while San Francisco 49ers received Scott Perry. San Francisco and Cincinnati team histories agree that the 49ers acquired defensive back Scott Perry on March 19, 1980 for a future ninth-round choice, later No. 230, used on Samoa Samoa. That return earns a D+ grade for Cincinnati Bengals, and the overall verdict is San Francisco 49ers Win.
San Francisco 49ers
San Francisco acquired running back Lenvil Elliott from Cincinnati in late August 1979 for the first right to players the 49ers placed on waivers. Elliott then appeared in 35 regular-season games for San Francisco from 1979 through 1981, producing 505 rushing yards, 563 receiving yards and six offensive touchdowns. The transaction gave the 49ers three seasons of useful backfield depth.
Kansas City received a 1980 ninth-round pick, correctly identified as No. 223, the selection used on Tom Tuinei. The Chiefs later moved that pick with another selection to Detroit for Larry Tearry, but Tearry was released before the 1980 regular season. The asset path therefore produced no durable on-field contribution for Kansas City.
San Francisco acquired defensive back Charles Cornelius from Miami in August 1979 for an 1980 eleventh-round selection, later No. 279 Phil Driscoll. Cornelius became an immediate 49ers starter, opening 14 games in 1979 with three interceptions and then making six more starts in 1980. Driscoll did not become an NFL regular-season contributor for Miami. Turning an eleventh-round pick into 20 starts across two seasons gives San Francisco the clear advantage.
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+.
Detroit acquired defensive lineman Cleveland Elam from San Francisco and received eight games with four starts in 1979. Elam supplied some immediate help, but his short Lions tenure limited the return. San Francisco converted Detroit’s 1980 second-round pick into two selections, including the choice used on long-term linebacker Keena Turner, giving the 49ers the stronger outcome.
San Francisco acquired defensive back Melvin Morgan from Cincinnati for a 1980 seventh-round pick, and the Bengals used No. 167 on linebacker Ron Simpkins. Morgan gave the 49ers 14 games and 12 starts across 1979-80. Simpkins became the more durable return, playing 84 games for Cincinnati with 22 starts through 1986. Both sides received real value, but the late-round pick developed into the longer Bengals asset.
San Francisco added fullback Mike Hogan from Philadelphia in 1979 and agreed to send a 1981 seventh-round pick. Hogan played two 49ers games, then was bundled with Tony Dungy in the 1980 trade that brought Ray Rhodes and Jimmy Robinson from the Giants.
San Francisco acquired safety Bob Jury and Seattle's 1979 third-round pick, No. 82. Jury started eight games for the 49ers in 1978, and the draft choice became Joe Montana, who developed into a Hall of Fame quarterback and led the franchise to four Super Bowl championships. The combination turned an ordinary-looking transaction into one of San Francisco's most consequential draft outcomes.
San Francisco acquired safety Chuck Crist from New Orleans on August 15, 1978 for linebacker Skip Vanderbundt. Crist started all 15 games he played for the 49ers and led the team with six interceptions for 159 return yards.
San Francisco sent tight end Jim Obradovich to Tampa Bay for the 1979 10th-round pick used on Howard Ballage. Ballage never played an NFL regular-season game. Obradovich, by contrast, spent six seasons with the Buccaneers, appearing in 89 games with 23 starts and seven receiving touchdowns over his career. Tampa Bay turned a late pick into a durable contributor.
Green Bay Packers received 1979 eighth round pick (#193-Ron Cassidy) in the deal with San Francisco 49ers. The eighth-round choice became Ron Cassidy, who played 60 games for Green Bay over five seasons and caught 14 passes for 233 yards. That result supports a B for Green Bay Packers. The Green Bay Packers Win verdict weighs the documented service and usable draft value each side actually realized from the exchange.
Washington traded linebacker Joe Harris to San Francisco on May 3, 1978 for the eighth-round choice used on North Carolina receiver Walker Lee at No. 202. Contemporary Washington coverage ties Lee directly to the Harris trade; Tony Green belonged to a separate Larry Jones transaction. Lee was waived during training camp, while San Francisco received the veteran player, giving the 49ers the modest hindsight edge.
Detroit acquired Dave Washington from San Francisco for a 1979 fifth-round selection. Washington appeared in all 16 games for the Lions in 1978 and seven more in 1979, giving Detroit useful veteran defensive service. San Francisco used No. 119 on Jerry Aldridge, whose NFL career produced only one regular-season appearance. The fifth-round asset was legitimate, but the player outcome did not approach Washington’s two-season Detroit contribution, creating a clear Lions win.
San Francisco received fullback Greg Boykin, who played all 16 games in 1978, started eight, and produced 473 scrimmage yards with two rushing touchdowns. New Orleans received safety Ralph McGill, who played 29 games over two seasons, including all 16 in 1978. Both clubs extracted legitimate short-term value, supporting an even trade.
Chicago acquired veteran defensive end Tommy Hart from San Francisco on April 20, 1978 for the 47th overall pick. Hart started all 16 games for the Bears that season and produced an estimated 7.5 sacks, then returned for 15 more games in 1979. Chicago received immediate defensive help, but the 49ers used the pick on Walt Downing, who stayed in San Francisco for six seasons and offered the longer return.
Miami acquired Delvin Williams and immediately received a 1,258-yard rushing season in 1978. Williams remained a significant part of the Dolphins backfield through 1980, giving Miami three seasons of real offensive production. The cost was enormous, however: San Francisco received Freddie Solomon, Vern Roberson and two draft picks, including the first-rounder used on Dan Bunz.
San Francisco 49ers San Francisco received Larry Jones in the transaction. The return did not produce enough lasting value to offset what Washington obtained from the corrected sixth-round choice. 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 Washington Commanders, the final verdict is Washington Commanders Win.
Buffalo traded O.J. Simpson to San Francisco for five draft choices spread across three drafts. The package included the 1979 No. 1 overall pick and the 1980 second-round selection used on Joe Cribbs. Not every pick became a Bills star, but the volume, premium position and later productive players gave Buffalo far more long-term value than Simpson provided the 49ers.
Denver acquired offensive tackle Andy Maurer from San Francisco on September 2, 1977, for a 1978 ninth-round pick that became No. 249, Steve McDaniels. Maurer supplied veteran line help during Denver's Super Bowl XII season, while the late-round selection produced limited downstream value. The Broncos therefore earn the clear hindsight edge.
San Francisco 49ers received Paul Seal; New Orleans Saints received John Watson. Seal played 43 games for San Francisco from 1977-79, catching 37 passes for 634 yards and three touchdowns. Watson appeared in 15 games for New Orleans over three seasons and made five starts, all in 1978. The realized outcomes support San Francisco 49ers Win, with San Francisco 49ers graded B- and New Orleans Saints graded C.
San Francisco acquired quarterback Pat Sullivan's contract rights from Chicago in 1977 for cash consideration of an unidentified amount. Sullivan did not produce regular-season value for the 49ers. Chicago therefore received the only verified realized return, although the unknown cash amount keeps that advantage modest. The supported outcome is a Chicago Bears win, C-plus to C.
New York Jets received 1977 third-round pick No. 72, Charles “Tank” Marshall; San Francisco 49ers received player to be named later Ed Galigher. Marshall appeared in five games for the Jets as a rookie and did not start a game. Galigher, identified as the player to be named later five days after the trade, appeared in 12 games for San Francisco in 1977 and is credited with 1.5 sacks. The realized returns support San Francisco 49ers Win, with New York Jets graded C and San Francisco 49ers graded B-.
San Francisco 49ers received Johnny Miller (b) in the exchange with Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Johnny Miller gave San Francisco regular-season snaps after the acquisition. Against the other side's return of 1977 tenth round pick (#267-Aaron Ball), that outcome supports a C+ grade. The transaction is ultimately judged as San Francisco 49ers Win, with the grade reflecting realized football value rather than the name or nominal value of the asset on the trade date.
Minnesota acquired running back Sammy Johnson from San Francisco for wide receiver Jim Lash during the 1976 season. Johnson stayed with the Vikings longer than Lash remained with the 49ers, but his offensive production was modest. Minnesota gained useful depth without finding a major difference-maker, leaving the exchange close to balanced.
San Francisco acquired tight end Jim O'Bradovich from the New York Giants on September 7, 1976 for the 1977 eighth-round pick at No. 211 overall. O'Bradovich played 26 games for the 49ers across 1976 and 1977.
Chicago Bears received Larry Schreiber from San Francisco 49ers in the 1976-09-04 trade. Schreiber played all 14 games for Chicago in 1976 as a reserve, totaling 15 rushing yards and 16 receiving yards. San Francisco received the 1978 fifth-round pick used on Archie Reese, who became a multi-year 49ers starter. Those outcomes support San Francisco B, Chicago C, and a 49ers win.
Baltimore sent quarterback Marty Domres to San Francisco for cash and a future fifth-round pick that became No. 117 Frank Myers in 1978. Myers did not become a Colts fixture, but Baltimore later moved him to Minnesota for another draft choice. The Colts preserved useful asset value while Domres made only five appearances for San Francisco.
Minnesota acquired defensive backs Windlan Hall and Nate Allen from San Francisco for offensive lineman Steve Lawson and a 1978 sixth-round choice. Allen immediately started 11 games and intercepted three passes for the Vikings in 1976. That useful secondary return gave Minnesota real value without producing a decisive advantage.
San Francisco acquired Jim Plunkett in a blockbuster attempt to solve quarterback, but his two 49ers seasons produced a losing record and no playoff berth. The cost was enormous: Tom Owen, two 1976 first-rounders and premium 1977 choices. New England converted that package into Pete Brock, Tim Fox, Raymond Clayborn and Horace Ivory, creating multiple long-term contributors from one outgoing quarterback.
San Francisco sent quarterback Steve Spurrier to expansion Tampa Bay for Bruce Elia, Willie McGee and the 1976 second-round pick used on Eddie Lewis. McGee immediately produced 269 receiving yards and four touchdowns in six games before a broken leg. The 49ers received multiple assets and more aggregate value than Tampa Bay realized from one difficult Spurrier season.
Baltimore acquired veteran center Forrest Blue plus the return of its 1976 15th- and 16th-round choices. Contemporary team records describe San Francisco's compensation as a 1978 third-round pick, later used on Ernie Hughes; a later Colts listing also mentions a 1977 second, but its conditional status is unresolved. Blue gave Baltimore veteran line help, while Hughes became a useful 49ers starter. The returns were comparable.
On 1975-09-09, Buffalo Bills received Frank Oliver, while San Francisco 49ers received draft pick (selection not identified). The hindsight verdict is San Francisco 49ers Win, with Buffalo Bills graded C+ and San Francisco 49ers graded B-. 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.
Kansas City sent cornerback Nate Allen to San Francisco for veteran lineman Randy Beisler and a 1976 third-round pick. Beisler's Chiefs contribution was cut short by a neck injury, but Kansas City used No. 63 on Keith Simons, who started 12 games over two Chiefs seasons. Allen played all 14 games for the 49ers in 1975 with three starts and a pick-six. The extra draft return gives Kansas City a narrow edge.
Las Vegas Raiders received Robert West. The Raiders received Robert West on a conditional arrangement. West was released during training camp before the 1975 regular season and did not provide Oakland with regular-season production. Because the condition tied to his making the Raiders roster was not met, Oakland received no lasting player value and did not trigger the draft compensation. That result supports a C- grade for Las Vegas Raiders.
Buffalo Bills received 1977 fifth round pick (#127-Neil O'Donoghue) in the exchange with San Francisco 49ers. Buffalo received the fifth-round choice that became Neil O'Donoghue, but that return did not match the starting and peak value Washington produced in San Francisco. The supported hindsight grade is C. That mark reflects realized value tied directly to this transaction, with the overall result recorded as San Francisco 49ers Win.
Dallas Cowboys received 1976 third round pick (#73-Duke Ferguson) in the deal with San Francisco 49ers. The third-round choice became Duke Ferguson, but he did not become a Dallas regular-season contributor. That result supports a D for Dallas Cowboys. The San Francisco 49ers Win verdict weighs the documented service and usable draft value each side actually realized from the exchange.
Cincinnati received the 1976 fifth-round choice that became Willie Shelby. Shelby developed into the durable piece in the exchange and gave the Bengals multiple seasons of backfield contribution, making the pick far more valuable than its modest draft slot suggests. That outcome supports a B+ grade within the Cincinnati Bengals Win verdict. The grade reflects realized football value rather than the size of the original package.
Baltimore and San Francisco swapped very late draft capital on January 29, 1975. The Colts received 1975 selections used on Mike Evavold at No. 399 and Mike Bengard at No. 426, while the 49ers received 1976 15th- and 16th-round choices, including No. 449 Mike Fuhrman. None of the identified selections developed into a consequential NFL contributor, leaving Baltimore without a durable payoff from its side of the exchange.
Detroit acquired quarterback Joe Reed from San Francisco on October 22, 1974. Reed became a useful Lions starter and reserve, appearing in 29 games from 1975 through 1979 and starting eight games in 1975 alone.
San Francisco acquired veteran quarterback Norm Snead from New York on October 22, 1974 for the 49ers' 1975 third-round and 1976 fourth-round draft choices. Snead gave San Francisco 12 games and eight starts across the rest of 1974 and 1975, throwing for 1,705 yards with 11 touchdowns and 11 interceptions. The return was useful short-term quarterback service, though not a long-term solution.
San Francisco acquired receiver Robert West from Kansas City on September 9, 1974 for the 1975 sixth-round pick that became linebacker Dave Wasick. West appeared in 10 games as a 49ers reserve that season and was later traded to Oakland for a future conditional choice that did not vest. His San Francisco impact was modest, but it still exceeded the Chiefs' return because Wasick never played an NFL regular-season game.
Buffalo Bills received 1975 seventh round pick (#166-Gil Chapman) in the exchange with San Francisco 49ers. The seventh-round choice became Gil Chapman, who did not produce comparable Bills regular-season value. Against the other side's return of Bob Penchion, that outcome supports a D+ grade. The transaction is ultimately judged as San Francisco 49ers Win, with the grade reflecting realized football value rather than the name or nominal value of the asset on the trade date.
San Francisco sent running back Vic Washington to Houston on August 15, 1974 for the Oilers' 1976 first-round choice and 1977 third-round choice. Washington played 12 games with five starts for Houston in 1974 and was released the following September. The 49ers' acquired capital became defensive back Tim Fox at No. 21 in 1976 and Elmo Boyd at No. 65 in 1977, giving San Francisco two chances from a player who supplied Houston only a short stay. That balance of realized value gives the edge to San Francisco 49ers.
On 1974-08-14, Chicago Bears received John Isenbarger and Dick Witcher, while San Francisco 49ers received Cecil Turner. The hindsight verdict is Even Trade, with Chicago Bears graded D and San Francisco 49ers graded D. The evaluation follows the documented consideration and traceable football value, while leaving unresolved downstream pick identities out of the judgment.
St. Louis acquired linebacker Jim Sniadecki from San Francisco on August 7, 1974. The 49ers received the Cardinals' 1975 ninth-round selection and used it on tackle Caesar Douglas. Sniadecki gave the Cardinals an established linebacker, while San Francisco recovered a late-round future asset. The direct outcomes remain modest enough to support only a narrow St. Louis edge.
Baltimore sent veteran tight end Tom Mitchell to San Francisco in July 1974 and received three selections in the 1975 draft: No. 53 Mike Washington, No. 105 Roosevelt Leaks and No. 157 Kim Jones. Washington became a long-time NFL defensive back, while Leaks rushed for more than 2,400 career yards. The three-pick return gave Baltimore substantial depth and long-term player value.
St. Louis Cardinals received Ken Willard in the 1974-05-06 exchange with San Francisco 49ers. Ken Willard gave St. Louis a veteran back, but the move came late in his career and did not produce enough sustained value to outweigh the three selections surrendered. The direct package is the basis for the hindsight grade, with later movement of an acquired selection treated separately. That supports San Francisco 49ers Win.
Baltimore acquired defensive back Mike Simpson from San Francisco for a 1975 seventh-round choice. Simpson was released in September before giving the Colts meaningful regular-season value. San Francisco retained a usable draft asset and later included that choice in the Tom Mitchell transaction before it eventually returned to Baltimore. The low acquisition cost limits the damage, but the Colts received too little from Simpson to match the value the 49ers preserved.
New Orleans received 1974 fourth round pick (#88-Rod McNeill), 1974 fifth round pick (#113-Joel Parker), while San Francisco received Danny Abramowicz. The hindsight grades are B- for New Orleans and C+ for San Francisco. The verdict is grounded in the actual starts, production, tenure and downstream draft results produced by those assets.
Buffalo acquired defensive tackle Earl Edwards from San Francisco for running back Randy Jackson and a 1975 third-round pick that became tackle Jeff Hart at No. 71. Edwards immediately became a productive Bills starter and recorded 18 sacks across his first two Buffalo seasons under modern stat reconstruction. San Francisco received a future third-rounder, but the immediate player return was far less valuable.
On 1973-09-04, Buffalo Bills received (Ralph) Marty Huff, while San Francisco 49ers received draft pick (selection not identified). The hindsight verdict is San Francisco 49ers Win, with Buffalo Bills graded C+ and San Francisco 49ers graded B-. 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.
Chicago acquired wide receiver John Wiegmann from San Francisco on July 19, 1973 for $1. Bears trade histories preserve the nominal purchase price, but Wiegmann does not appear on Chicago's 1973 regular-season roster, so the club received no documented regular-season playing value from the move.
New Orleans acquired safety Johnny Fuller from San Francisco on July 9, 1973 for a future third-round draft choice. The strongest completed draft chain points to the Saints' 1976 third-round pick, No. 63 overall, which passed through San Francisco to Kansas City and became linebacker Keith Simons. Fuller immediately became a Saints starter and logged 36 games with 34 starts from 1973 through 1975.
Baltimore acquired veteran guard Elmer Collett from San Francisco in June 1973 for a 1975 third-round draft choice. Collett immediately started every game for the Colts in 1973 and gave a rebuilding offense a dependable veteran presence. The 49ers received future draft value, but the transaction was essentially a straightforward veteran-for-pick exchange.
San Francisco 49ers received 1975 fourth-round pick No. 85, Cleveland Elam; New Orleans Saints received Preston Riley. Elam became a two-time Pro Bowl defensive lineman for San Francisco and started 33 games from 1976-78. Riley appeared in only one game for New Orleans in 1973 and recorded no reception. The realized outcomes support San Francisco 49ers Win, with San Francisco 49ers graded A- and New Orleans Saints graded D+.
San Francisco traded tight end Bob Windsor to New England on July 31, 1972 for the Patriots' 1974 first-round selection. Windsor had a limited Patriots tenure, while the 49ers ultimately used the ninth overall pick on running back Wilbur Jackson. Securing a top-ten first-rounder for a non-core veteran created a major long-term asset advantage for San Francisco.
Washington acquired Rosey Taylor plus San Francisco's 1973 third- and fourth-round picks, while the 49ers received Washington's 1974 second-rounder and 1975 third-rounder. Taylor helped Washington reach Super Bowl VII. San Francisco later turned its incoming picks into Delvin Williams and Steve Mike-Mayer, with Williams becoming a Pro Bowl runner who topped 1,200 rushing yards in 1976.
Chicago Bears received Bill Tucker from San Francisco 49ers in the 1971-09-13 trade. Chicago acquired Bill Tucker. San Francisco 49ers's return was 1973 fifth round pick (#112-Mike Fulk). San Francisco received the 1973 fifth-round pick and selected linebacker Mike Fulk at No. 112. Those realized outcomes, rather than the labels on the assets alone, drive the hindsight grade.
Green Bay Packers received Al Randolph from San Francisco 49ers in the 1971-09-08 trade. Green Bay acquired Al Randolph, whose Packers return was limited rather than a long-term role. San Francisco 49ers's return was 1974 fourth round pick (#90-Sammy Johnson (a)). San Francisco received the 1974 fourth-round pick and selected Sammy Johnson at No. 90. Those realized outcomes, rather than the labels on the assets alone, drive the hindsight grade.
San Francisco traded defensive tackle Roland Lakes to the Giants in July 1971 for New York's 1973 second-round selection. The 49ers used No. 41 overall on linebacker Willie Harper, who became a long-term San Francisco contributor. Turning an aging veteran into a second-round player with lasting value made this one of the clearest wins in the group.
San Francisco traded running back Gary Lewis to New Orleans on September 21, 1970 for the Saints' 1971 tenth-round pick, No. 236. The 49ers used the selection on Wisconsin-Oshkosh running back Ron Cardo, who did not record an NFL regular-season appearance.
San Francisco received Green Bay's 1971 second-round selection and used No. 37 overall on Washington guard Ernie Janet. Janet did not provide regular-season value to the 49ers before being traded to the Bears in 1972. Green Bay, meanwhile, got a full 14-game season from Kevin Hardy in 1970. The Packers therefore realized more immediate value despite surrendering the higher-upside draft asset.
San Francisco traded wide receiver Clifton McNeil to the New York Giants on May 31, 1970 for the Giants' 1971 fifth-round pick and 1972 second-round pick. The 49ers used those selections on linebacker George Wells at No. 122 and defensive back Ralph McGill at No. 28. McGill became a six-season 49ers contributor, while Wells never appeared in an NFL regular-season game.
Miami acquired offensive lineman Lance Olssen from San Francisco for defensive back Tom Beier in May 1970. Olssen was released without appearing in a Dolphins regular-season game, while Beier likewise failed to make a regular-season appearance for the 49ers. Both players continued to have football transactions afterward, but neither produced NFL value for the club that acquired him in this exchange. With no realized return on either side, the trade is even.
Los Angeles acquired defensive back Kermit Alexander and the 1970 second-round pick used on Donnie Williams from San Francisco for kicker Bruce Gossett. Alexander started all 28 Rams games over two seasons and intercepted seven passes, giving Los Angeles strong short-term value. Williams contributed little, while Gossett became San Francisco’s kicker for five seasons and made 99 field goals. The 49ers’ longer, playoff-era return earns a narrow win.
Kansas City received San Francisco's 1970 third-round pick, No. 61, and used it on defensive end Billy Bob Barnett. Barnett did not develop into a comparable professional contributor, limiting the Chiefs' return from a meaningful draft slot. San Francisco, meanwhile, received immediate value from Noland Smith as an established return specialist, creating the stronger realized player outcome.
San Francisco 49ers
Chicago Bears received Howard Mudd, who played 18 games with 11 starts across 1969-70 before his playing career ended. The team earns a C, compared with B+ for San Francisco 49ers, and the hindsight verdict is San Francisco 49ers Win. That judgment reflects the concrete team-specific production, role and tenure created by the assets in this deal.
San Francisco acquired guard Randy Beisler and Philadelphia's 1971 third-round pick in the September 8, 1969 trade that sent quarterback George Mira to the Eagles. Beisler became a six-year 49ers contributor, appearing in 79 games with 49 starts and starting 41 games from 1970 through 1972 alone. The third-rounder became No. 55 Sam Dickerson, who did not play a regular-season game for San Francisco after Green Bay claimed him before the 1971 season.
Atlanta Falcons and San Francisco 49ers exchanged Dwight Lee for draft pick (selection not identified). Atlanta unquestionably received on-field service from Lee. The conflict is best handled by separating the certain player movement from the uncertain pick outcome. In hindsight, Atlanta Falcons produced the stronger realized return, with the grade based on actual post-trade service and traceable downstream value rather than the nominal asset label alone.
Washington acquired Pro Bowl tackle Walter Rock from San Francisco for its 1970 first-round pick. The 49ers used No. 17 on Bruce Taylor, who won NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year, made a Pro Bowl and spent eight seasons in San Francisco. Rock also became a multi-year Washington starter and reached Super Bowl VII, leaving both clubs with substantial value from opposite sides of the exchange.
St. Louis purchased defensive end Walter Johnson from San Francisco on September 4, 1968, leaving the 49ers with cash and the Cardinals with a former 1967 eighth-round pick. Johnson never appeared in a regular-season game for St. Louis and was released, while San Francisco at least converted a fringe roster asset into compensation. The modest but tangible return gives the 49ers the edge.
Cleveland traded wide receiver Clifton McNeil to San Francisco on September 2, 1968 for the 49ers' 1969 second-round selection, No. 42 overall. That pick later moved through Cleveland to Pittsburgh, which selected Warren Bankston, so Bankston should not be treated as a Browns player return. Cleveland did receive valuable second-round draft capital, but it gave up a receiver who immediately became one of the NFL's best pass catchers.
St. Louis added Wayne Trimble and Walter Johnson, also identified as Walter Clarke, from San Francisco, while the record lists cash going to the 49ers. Surviving player histories complicate the transaction because Trimble's move is also described as a waiver claim rather than a conventional cash trade. With the exact mechanism and downstream value uncertain, neither side has a documented advantage large enough to separate the exchange.
Dallas Cowboys received 1969 third round pick (#68-Tom Stincic). Dallas used the acquired third-round choice on Tom Stincic and received the stronger long-term value from the transaction relative to San Francisco's return. That result supports a B grade for Dallas Cowboys. The final verdict is Dallas Cowboys Win, based on the documented service, durability, and value each club actually obtained from this exchange.
New Orleans Saints received Monty Stickles from San Francisco in the 1968-07-05 trade, while San Francisco received George Rose. Stickles supplied modest 1968 receiving production for New Orleans. Rose did not create a post-trade regular-season return for San Francisco. Those limited realized outcomes support the existing C/C grades and Even Trade verdict.
New Orleans received veteran defensive end Dan Colchico for Jim Jordan in April 1968. Jordan never produced a regular-season appearance for San Francisco and was playing for the Alabama Hawks in the Continental Football League later that year. Colchico eventually returned from his long Achilles recovery to play nine games for the Saints in 1969. That modest contribution gives New Orleans the edge.
Detroit received one useful season from Dave Kopay: 14 games, five starts and 337 scrimmage yards in 1968. San Francisco's two picks produced opposite results. Lance Olssen played only nine games without a start, but Jim Sniadecki stayed five seasons and appeared in 58 games for the 49ers. That durability gives San Francisco the better realized return, B- to C+, rather than the previous even verdict.
The Cardinals received the 1968 second-round choice at No. 42 and selected Bob Atkins. Atkins went on to play more than one hundred NFL games, making the transferred selection the most substantial and durable return in the deal. That outcome supports a B+ grade within the Arizona Cardinals Win verdict. The grade reflects realized football value rather than the size of the original package.
San Francisco traded tackle Dave McCormick to New Orleans on September 5, 1967 for the Saints' 1968 sixth-round choice. The pick became No. 141 overall, where the 49ers selected Tennessee State wide receiver Leo Johnson. Johnson spent 1968 on the taxi squad, then appeared in 21 regular-season games for San Francisco across 1969-70, catching four passes for 42 yards. The return was modest, but it produced two seasons of roster service.
Minnesota acquired John Pentecost from San Francisco for a draft choice whose exact selection remains unidentified. The surviving record does not show a major long-term contribution from Pentecost or a securely traceable downstream payoff from the pick. With neither side producing a documented advantage large enough to separate the exchange, Minnesota's return fits the same modest range as San Francisco's.
New York acquired linebacker Ed Weisacosky from San Francisco on August 28, 1967 for a conditional draft choice that became the Giants' 1968 eighth-round pick, No. 206. Weisacosky made the Giants, appeared in all 14 regular-season games and started four. Because the condition was satisfied, San Francisco received the pick and used it on tackle Charley Brown, who never appeared in an NFL regular-season game.
Atlanta traded the No. 3 pick in the 1967 draft to San Francisco for Bernie Casey, Jim Wilson and Jim Norton. The 49ers used the selection on Steve Spurrier. Casey refused to play for Atlanta and was quickly redirected to the Rams, while Wilson and Norton produced limited Falcons value. Spurrier never became a star quarterback, but San Francisco still received the stronger durable return.
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.
San Francisco sent veteran J.D. Smith to Dallas on September 6, 1965 for the Cowboys' 1966 fifth-round selection, No. 69, later used on defensive back Mel Phillips. The transaction was separate from the same-day Leon Donohue deal. Dallas added an experienced player while the 49ers converted Smith into a draft asset. Neither return created enough separation to justify a strong win for either club.
San Francisco acquired John David Crow from St. Louis for Abe Woodson before the 1965 season. Crow immediately delivered a Pro Bowl year with 514 rushing yards and 493 receiving yards, then remained a productive 49er through 1968. Woodson was an accomplished veteran and gave the Cardinals legitimate value, but Crow’s multi-year offensive production and immediate 1,000-plus yards from scrimmage make San Francisco the clear winner.
San Francisco acquired defensive lineman Dan LaRose from Baltimore for the 1966 seventh-round selection that became No. 105 Dave Ellis. LaRose appeared in five games for the 49ers during the 1965 season, providing the only regular-season NFL contribution directly produced by the exchange. Ellis never appeared in an NFL regular-season game, leaving Baltimore without comparable realized playing value from the acquired draft choice.
Cleveland Browns received the 1965 sixth-round pick later used on Arnie Simkus from San Francisco in the 1964-07-01 trade. San Francisco received veteran center Frank Morze. Simkus did not produce regular-season value for Cleveland, while Morze was the player return acquired by the 49ers. Those realized outcomes support San Francisco's C+ grade over Cleveland's C- grade and the existing 49ers-win verdict.
San Francisco acquired tackle Roy Williams from Minnesota on October 30, 1963, for a 1965 eighth-round draft choice that became No. 100 John Hankinson. Williams appeared in seven games for the 49ers that season, while Hankinson never played an NFL regular-season game for Minnesota. The return was modest on both sides, but San Francisco received the only realized NFL playing value.
New York acquired defensive back Eddie Dove from San Francisco in September 1963 for backup quarterback Ralph Guglielmi and a future draft choice that became the 49ers' 1965 third-round pick, No. 29 Bob Schweickert. Dove played 12 games for the Giants that season, intercepted two passes for 75 yards and handled punt returns for an Eastern Division champion. Guglielmi refused to report to San Francisco, and Schweickert never played a regular-season game for the 49ers.
Washington acquired linebacker and defensive end Carl Kammerer from San Francisco on September 12, 1963 for an eighth-round pick in the 1964 draft. Kammerer became a seven-year Washington contributor, appearing in 95 games with 58 starts and producing 30 Approximate Value. The low acquisition cost and long starting run make this an excellent Washington return.
The legacy record lists Baltimore Colts receiving Raymond Berry and San Francisco 49ers receiving 1965 third round pick (#42-Jack Chapple), but part of that date, identity, or downstream attribution remains disputed in the surviving historical record. An official Colts historical ledger and draft reconstruction carry a 1965 third-round choice to San Francisco on a line labeled for Raymond Berry, yet official career history shows Berry never left Baltimore. The supportable historical fact is the recorded pick movement; the player label is internally inconsistent, so this verdict does not
San Francisco received Cleveland's 1965 first-round pick after the Browns acquired veteran guard Ted Connolly. The 49ers used the No. 13 selection on defensive back George Donnelly, who played 33 games with 18 starts over three San Francisco seasons. Connolly played 10 games for Cleveland in 1963 without a start.
San Francisco and Dallas completed the Mike Dowdle-for-Jim Ridlon swap on April 30, 1963. Both players helped their new clubs: Dowdle became a multi-year 49ers linebacker starter, while Ridlon delivered two Dallas seasons highlighted by four interceptions and two defensive touchdowns in 1964. San Francisco gets the narrow edge, B-plus to B.
San Francisco received Bob Gaiters from New York for Aaron Thomas. Gaiters appeared in nine 49ers games in 1962, starting once, rushing 36 times for 158 yards and catching two passes for 13 yards without a touchdown. He played for Denver the following season and never returned to San Francisco. The 49ers therefore received only a brief reserve contribution while Thomas became a long-term Giants starter and Pro Bowl-caliber receiver.
Chicago Bears received 1963 fourth round pick (#49-Stan Sanders) from San Francisco 49ers in the 1962-08-30 trade. San Francisco acquired John Mellekas, who appeared in 11 games and started two for the 1962 49ers. San Francisco 49ers's return was John Mellekas. Chicago received the fourth-round pick used on Stan Sanders at No. 49. Those realized outcomes, rather than the labels on the assets alone, drive the hindsight grade.
Chicago Bears received Preston Powell from San Francisco 49ers in the 1962-07-01 trade. Chicago acquired Preston Powell, but NFL records show his only regular-season season was with Cleveland in 1961; he did not create a Bears regular-season return. San Francisco 49ers's return was 1963 fifth round pick (#66-Gary Moeller). San Francisco received the fifth-round pick used on Gary Moeller at No. 66. Those realized outcomes, rather than the labels on the assets alone, drive the hindsight grade.
Philadelphia acquired Bob Harrison and got 22 games, 12 starts and two interceptions from him across 1962-63. San Francisco used the acquired No. 46 pick on Hatch Rosdahl, but Rosdahl never played a regular-season game for the 49ers; his professional career came in the AFL with Buffalo and Kansas City. The Eagles received two seasons of actual linebacker service while San Francisco got no team-specific return from its selection. Philadelphia wins, B- to D.
On 1962-06-11, San Francisco 49ers received 1963 high draft pick, while Washington Commanders received Gorden Kelley. The hindsight verdict is Washington Commanders Win, with San Francisco 49ers graded C and Washington Commanders graded B. The evaluation follows the documented consideration and traceable football value, while leaving unresolved downstream pick identities out of the judgment.
Los Angeles acquired Lou Cordileone from San Francisco in April 1962, but his Rams stay produced only two regular-season games and no starts before he moved to Pittsburgh. The 49ers received Elbert Kimbrough, who became a five-season secondary regular in San Francisco, starting 64 games from 1962 through 1966 and intercepting eight passes. The realized value separated quickly and stayed heavily in San Francisco's favor.
San Francisco traded 34-year-old quarterback Y.A. Tittle to New York for second-year guard Lou Cordileone on August 18, 1961. Cordileone never approached Tittle's impact for the 49ers. Tittle instead revived his career with the Giants, throwing 96 touchdown passes in four seasons and leading New York to three consecutive NFL Championship Games. Hindsight makes the 49ers' return painfully light.
St. Louis/Arizona Cardinals received Edgar Henke / Ed Henke in the exchange with San Francisco 49ers. Henke played all 14 games for the 1961 Cardinals, started ten, and recorded six sacks, providing immediate and useful defensive value. The supported hindsight grade is B. That mark reflects realized value tied directly to this transaction, with the overall result recorded as Arizona/St. Louis Cardinals Win.
Baltimore acquired Hall of Fame fullback Joe Perry from San Francisco in February 1961 for a conditional 1962 20th-round selection. Perry immediately became the Colts' leading rusher, gaining 675 yards in 1961 and adding 359 more in 1962. The 49ers surrendered an aging legend, but the extremely late conditional return never approached the two useful seasons Baltimore received.
Baltimore sent its 1961 first-round selection to San Francisco for tight end Dee Mackey, and the 49ers used the No. 11 pick on UCLA quarterback Billy Kilmer. Mackey never produced a regular-season receiving line for the Colts, while Kilmer became a useful multi-position 49er and later a long-term NFL starting quarterback. The first-round return gives San Francisco the decisive advantage.
San Francisco acquired defensive end Jerry Wilson from Philadelphia for guard John Wittenborn on October 17, 1960. Wilson appeared in six 49ers games without a start, and the season became the last of his NFL career.
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.
San Francisco 49ers received 1962 sixth round pick (#71-Keith Luhnow) from Washington Commanders, sending Rodney Breedlove / Rod Breedlove the other way. Breedlove became a multi-season Washington regular and earned Pro Bowl recognition, giving Washington far more realized NFL value than San Francisco received from the late-round return. That outcome supports a D+ grade for San Francisco 49ers, and the overall verdict is Washington Commanders Win.
Dallas Cowboys received Bill Herchman in the exchange with San Francisco 49ers. Herchman gave Dallas two useful seasons at defensive tackle, including 18 starts, so the Cowboys received legitimate on-field value. The supported hindsight grade is C+. That mark reflects realized value tied directly to this transaction, with the overall result recorded as Even Trade.
Dallas Cowboys received Gene Babb, while San Francisco 49ers received 1961 fifth round pick (#58-Clark Miller). Dallas acquired Gene Babb and San Francisco received the 1961 fifth-round choice used at No. 58 on Clark Miller. The exact 1960 date is less settled, but Babb contributed in Dallas and Miller became the stronger long-term 49ers return. Dallas Cowboys earns a C+ grade, and the overall verdict is San Francisco 49ers Win.
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.
Washington acquired defensive lineman Bob Toneff from San Francisco on May 12, 1959, for a 1960 second-round pick, No. 16 overall. Toneff became a six-year Washington mainstay, playing 80 games with 76 starts and earning three consecutive Pro Bowls from 1959 through 1961. San Francisco used the pick on guard Mike Magac, who played five seasons and 56 games for the 49ers. Both sides did well, but Toneff delivered the greater peak value.
The Cardinals acquired tackle Bobby Cross from San Francisco for an undisclosed draft choice. Cross immediately became a starter for Chicago and appeared in 23 games across two seasons, giving the franchise tangible value from the exchange. Because the exact draft return is not fully identified but the trade itself is established, Cross' documented contribution supports a B- grade and a Cardinals win.
Detroit Lions received 1958 15th round pick (#179-John Scheldrup) in the exchange with San Francisco 49ers. The historical record shows how the player service and draft value developed after the deal, with the comparison favoring San Francisco 49ers. 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.
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.
Detroit acquired Hall of Fame fullback John Henry Johnson and a 1958 seventh-round pick from San Francisco for defensive back Bill Stits. Johnson immediately led the 1957 Lions with 621 rushing yards and helped them win the NFL championship, then remained productive for three Detroit seasons. Stits gave the 49ers defensive-back service, but the centerpiece value went overwhelmingly to Detroit.
San Francisco acquired tackle Bob Cross from the Rams for its 1957 third-round pick, which Los Angeles used at No. 27 on George Strugar. Cross gave the 49ers two seasons of useful line play, while Strugar appeared in 57 games with 32 starts for the Rams. Both sides received legitimate value, but Los Angeles obtained the longer-lasting contribution.
Arizona Cardinals received Doug Hogland, while San Francisco 49ers received 1957 fourth round pick (#46-Mike Sandusky). The Cardinals acquired Doug Hogland and San Francisco received the 1957 fourth-round choice used at No. 46 on Mike Sandusky. Hogland became a useful Cardinals starter, while San Francisco later included Sandusky in the Earl Morrall trade, making the original exchange competitive. Arizona Cardinals earns a B- grade, and the overall verdict is Even Trade.
San Francisco acquired quarterback Arnie Galiffa from New York in August 1954 for defensive end Bob Van Doren. Galiffa appeared in four regular-season games for the 49ers without a start, completing three of 12 passes for 54 yards and throwing four interceptions. He left the NFL after that season. The return was limited, but San Francisco at least received regular-season snaps from the player it acquired.
San Francisco 49ers received Johnny Williams from Washington Commanders. Johnny Williams appeared in 11 games for San Francisco during the 1954 season, giving the 49ers an immediate, measurable return from a player who actually joined their lineup. That outcome supports a C+ grade for San Francisco 49ers when the trade is measured by the football value actually realized after the exchange.
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.
San Francisco acquired rookie defensive back Fred Bruney from Cleveland on September 22, 1953 for a 1954 tenth-round draft choice. The 49ers' own trade history identifies the return as a No. 10-round choice, and the 1954 draft ledger shows Cleveland using pick No. 119, acquired from San Francisco, on Don Goss. Bruney immediately started all 12 games for the 49ers and intercepted five passes as a rookie.
San Francisco acquired Bob Van Doren from Cleveland on August 11, 1953 for the 49ers' 1954 tenth-round draft choice, No. 119 overall. Van Doren played 10 regular-season games with three starts for San Francisco that season. Cleveland used the acquired pick on SMU tackle Don Goss, correcting the legacy row's uncertainty between two different 1954 selections.
Green Bay acquired Benny Aldridge and got eight games, eight starts and five interceptions from him in 1953. San Francisco received the Packers' 1954 15th-round choice and used No. 171 on Ed Gossage, who never appeared in an NFL regular-season game. One season of starting defensive-back production is modest rather than franchise-changing, but it clearly beats a draft return with no NFL games. Green Bay wins, B- to D.
Chicago turned J.R. Boone into a conditional 1953 sixth-rounder that conveyed at No. 68 and became Kline Gilbert. Gilbert started all 60 games he played for the Bears from 1953 through 1957 and earned a Pro Bowl selection in his final season. Boone gave San Francisco one productive year with 461 receiving yards, but Gilbert’s five-year starting run gives Chicago the stronger return and an A- grade.
Chicago obtained halfback Emil 'Red' Sitko from San Francisco in August 1951 for a draft choice. Available transaction histories confirm that a pick changed hands but leave the exact selection uncertain, suggesting only that it may have become 1952 No. 27 Gene Shannon. Sitko provided useful 1951 service; without a confirmed pick identity, the exchange remains balanced.
San Francisco 49ers received Howie Livingston. San Francisco acquired Howie Livingston and immediately received starting defensive value. Livingston played seven games and started all seven for the 49ers in 1950, intercepting four passes for 99 yards and a touchdown. That is a concrete half-season of high-impact secondary production from the player San Francisco acquired.
Cleveland’s fourth-round pick from San Francisco became Bob Oristaglio, who played 12 Browns games in 1951 and caught one 20-yard touchdown before moving to Philadelphia. San Francisco received Gordy Soltau, and the comparison is overwhelming: Soltau spent nine seasons with the 49ers, made three straight Pro Bowls, earned three All-Pro selections, led the NFL in scoring twice and retired with a franchise-record 644 points. The 49ers earn an A+.
Cleveland Browns received conditional draft pick (if Harrington makes 49ers roster) (not exercised) from San Francisco 49ers in the 1950-08-16 trade. Cleveland sent Packard Harrington to San Francisco; the available 1950 49ers roster record does not show a regular-season contribution from Harrington. San Francisco 49ers's return was Packard Harrington. The conditional draft choice was not exercised, so San Francisco did not transfer a realized pick to Cleveland. Those realized outcomes, rather than the labels on the assets alone, drive the hindsight grade.
Los Angeles acquired Glenn Davis's rights and immediately received the best outcome in the deal. Davis started all 12 games in 1950, produced 1,008 scrimmage yards and seven rushing/receiving touchdowns, and earned a Pro Bowl selection. Across two Rams seasons he totaled 1,298 scrimmage yards and nine offensive touchdowns, giving Los Angeles substantial immediate production from the rights package.