Los Angeles sent defensive lineman Dave Cahill to Atlanta on…
Los Angeles sent defensive lineman Dave Cahill to Atlanta on September 10, 1969 for the Falcons' 1970 seventh-round pick, No. 168. The Rams used it on Bill Nelson, who spent five seasons with Los Angeles and appeared in 47 games.
Atlanta Falcons Received
- player Dave Cahill
Los Angeles Rams Received
- pick 1970 seventh-round pick (No. 168; Bill Nelson )
Trade Analysis
The Exchange
Pro Sports Transactions traces Atlanta's 1970 seventh-round selection, No. 168, directly to the September 10, 1969 trade for Rams defensive lineman Dave Cahill. The Rams' own historical media guide independently lists their 1970 seventh-round choice from Atlanta and identifies Bill Nelson as the selection. That resolves both the incorrect legacy 1970 date and the previously unidentified pick.
Atlanta's Return
Cahill provided immediate help. Pro Football Reference records him in 11 games with eight starts for Atlanta in 1969, including 1.5 sacks. He had already played for Philadelphia and Los Angeles, and 1969 became his final NFL season. Atlanta therefore received a useful short-term starter, but no value beyond that year.
Los Angeles' Return
The Rams selected Oregon State defensive tackle Bill Nelson at No. 168. NFL records show Nelson playing 47 games for Los Angeles from 1971 through 1975, including six starts as a rookie-year contributor after spending 1970 on the reserve list. Rams media guides describe him as a long-term backup behind an exceptionally strong defensive front, and his five-season tenure supplied considerably more roster longevity than the player Los Angeles traded away.
Final Verdict
Los Angeles Rams Win. Atlanta earns a B- because Cahill stepped into the lineup for eight starts and gave the Falcons legitimate 1969 value. The Rams earn a B because their seventh-round return became Nelson, who stayed five seasons and appeared in 47 games. The edge is meaningful but not overwhelming because Nelson was mostly a reserve rather than a long-term full-time starter.