Chicago Bears Win
Summary: Pittsburgh traded the third overall pick in the 1965 draft to Chicago for two 1964 picks. The Bears selected Dick Butkus, widely considered the greatest middle linebacker in NFL history. Analysis: The third overall pick became Dick Butkus — a six-time All-Pro, eight-time Pro Bowler, and Hall of Famer who redefined the linebacker position. Pittsburgh received Jim Kelly (a guard who played a few seasons) and Ben McGee (a solid defensive end). The value disparity is staggering. Trading a pick that became Butkus for two mid-round contributors is among the franchise's most damaging deals. Original grade of B is reversed — this is a D for Pittsburgh, A+ for Chicago.
Pittsburgh Steelers Received
- pick 1964 second round pick (#28-Jim Kelly (Harry))
- pick 1964 fourth round pick (#51-Ben McGee)
Chicago Bears Received
- pick 1965 first round pick (#3-Dick Butkus)
Trade Summary
Summary: Pittsburgh traded the third overall pick in the 1965 draft to Chicago for two 1964 picks. The Bears selected Dick Butkus, widely considered the greatest middle linebacker in NFL history. Analysis: The third overall pick became Dick Butkus — a six-time All-Pro, eight-time Pro Bowler, and Hall of Famer who redefined the linebacker position. Pittsburgh received Jim Kelly (a guard who played a few seasons) and Ben McGee (a solid defensive end). The value disparity is staggering. Trading a pick that became Butkus for two mid-round contributors is among the franchise's most damaging deals. Original grade of B is reversed — this is a D for Pittsburgh, A+ for Chicago.
Trade Analysis
Summary: Pittsburgh traded the third overall pick in the 1965 draft to Chicago for two 1964 picks. The Bears selected Dick Butkus, widely considered the greatest middle linebacker in NFL history. Analysis: The third overall pick became Dick Butkus — a six-time All-Pro, eight-time Pro Bowler, and Hall of Famer who redefined the linebacker position. Pittsburgh received Jim Kelly (a guard who played a few seasons) and Ben McGee (a solid defensive end). The value disparity is staggering. Trading a pick that became Butkus for two mid-round contributors is among the franchise's most damaging deals. Original grade of B is reversed — this is a D for Pittsburgh, A+ for Chicago. Chicago Bears received 1965 first round pick (#3-Dick Butkus) and gave up 1964 second round pick (#28-Jim Kelly (Harry)); 1964 fourth round pick (#51-Ben McGee). The partner grade reflects the same value curve from the opposite side of the transaction.