Washington traded veteran offensive lineman Don Boll to the…
Washington traded veteran offensive lineman Don Boll to the New York Giants for the Giants' 1961 third-round draft choice. Washington used the acquired No. 39 selection on Pittsburgh fullback Jim Cunningham, who played three NFL seasons for the club.
New York Giants Received
- player Don Boll
Washington Commanders Received
- pick 1961 third-round pick (#39-Jim Cunningham)
Trade Analysis
The Exchange
The 1961 draft transaction ledger identifies Washington's No. 39 selection as the Giants' third-round choice obtained for Don Boll. Washington's 1962 media guide independently says the round had previously been traded by New York for Boll. The available sources establish the exchange and downstream draft asset even though the exact transaction day is not independently reproduced in those later ledgers.
Washington Return
Washington selected Pittsburgh fullback Jim Cunningham at No. 39. Pro Football Reference credits Cunningham with 42 games over three Washington seasons from 1961 through 1963, including 120 rushing attempts for 337 yards and three rushing touchdowns plus 26 receptions for 219 yards and two receiving touchdowns. The 1962 Washington guide notes that Cunningham played all 14 games as a rookie and shared the fullback position with Don Bosseler.
New York Return
Boll joined the Giants for his eighth NFL season. Pro Football Reference and the 1960 Giants roster credit him with 11 regular-season appearances in 1960. It was his only Giants season and his final NFL season before Minnesota selected him in the 1961 expansion draft.
Hindsight Comparison
New York received one season of veteran line depth. Washington converted the future third-rounder into a player who remained on the roster for three seasons and appeared in 42 games. Cunningham was not a long-term starter, so the gap is useful rather than overwhelming.
Final Verdict
Washington Redskins/Commanders Win, B- to C. The acquired pick produced three seasons of Cunningham value, while Boll supplied New York with one final season.