St. Louis acquired running back Willie Belton from Buffalo…
St. Louis acquired running back Willie Belton from Buffalo for a 1974 tenth-round pick that became Art Cameron. Belton appeared in three games for the Cardinals in 1973 and five more in 1974, giving St. Louis at least some backfield service. Cameron did not produce an NFL regular-season career for Buffalo. The return was modest on both sides, but the Cardinals received the only documented game-day value.
Arizona Cardinals Received
- player Willie Belton
Buffalo Bills Received
- pick 1974 tenth round pick (#241-Art Cameron)
Trade Analysis
The Exchange
On August 30, 1973, Buffalo traded running back Willie Belton to St. Louis for a 1974 tenth-round draft choice. Buffalo used the 241st overall pick on Art Cameron. This was a minor transaction involving a depth player and a late selection, so neither team had a realistic expectation of star-level value. The grade should reflect the modest stakes while still recognizing which asset actually reached the field.
Arizona/St. Louis Cardinals Return
Belton gave the Cardinals limited but real service. NFL records show three St. Louis appearances in 1973 and five more in 1974. He also received rushing attempts during that second season. The role was small and short-lived, but eight regular-season games are tangible value from a player acquired for a tenth-round pick.
Buffalo Bills Return
Buffalo's compensation became Cameron at No. 241 in the 1974 draft. He did not develop into an NFL regular-season contributor. The Bills therefore received the flexibility of a draft selection but no subsequent game-day production from the chosen player. That makes the realized return weaker than Belton's brief Cardinals tenure.
Value in Hindsight
Neither side should receive a high grade because the transaction produced only a small amount of football value. The distinction is nevertheless clear: St. Louis got actual appearances from Belton, while Buffalo's selection did not produce an NFL game. The Cardinals' edge is modest rather than dramatic.
Final Verdict
The Cardinals win. St. Louis earns a C+ for receiving eight games of backfield depth from Belton. Buffalo earns a D+ because the tenth-round choice became a player with no regular-season NFL contribution. The result favors St. Louis, but the low stakes keep the grade spread contained.