Dallas traded quarterback Jerry Rhome to Cleveland for a 1970…
Dallas traded quarterback Jerry Rhome to Cleveland for a 1970 third-round pick that became Steve Kiner and a conditional third-rounder that became Charlie Waters. The condition was triggered when Cleveland moved Rhome before the draft. Waters developed into a three-time Pro Bowler, two-time Super Bowl champion and 41-interception defensive back, giving Dallas the overwhelming long-term return.
Cleveland Browns Received
- player Jerry Rhome
Dallas Cowboys Received
- pick 1970 third round pick (#73- Steve Kiner )
- pick 1970 conditional third round pick (if Rhome is traded from Browns before 1970 draft) (#66-Charlie Waters)
Trade Analysis
What the Trade Actually Did
Dallas sent quarterback Jerry Rhome to Cleveland on May 23, 1969. In return, the Cowboys received Cleveland's 1970 third-round pick and a second conditional third-round choice if Rhome was traded again before the 1970 draft. Cleveland did move him, activating the condition. The picks became linebacker Steve Kiner at No. 73 and defensive back Charlie Waters at No. 66.
Why Charlie Waters Defines the Deal
Waters became one of the signature defensive backs of the Tom Landry era. He played 160 games for Dallas, intercepted 41 passes, made three Pro Bowls and earned two Super Bowl rings. That is extraordinary value from a conditional third-round pick. Kiner did not approach that level, but Dallas did not need both selections to hit for the trade to become a major success.
How Cleveland's Side Played Out
Rhome had already been a reserve behind Dallas' established quarterbacks and did not become Cleveland's long-term answer. The Browns therefore paid two useful draft assets for a player who supplied limited staying power. The conditional structure made the outcome worse: once Cleveland moved Rhome, Dallas gained another chance in the same round and used it on a player who stayed for eleven seasons.
Final Verdict
Dallas wins clearly. Turning a surplus quarterback into two third-round selections was smart asset management, and Waters transformed the deal from merely favorable into a franchise-level success. Cleveland received little durable value while Dallas gained a long-term secondary leader. The Cowboys merit an A, with the Browns at D.