Kansas City acquired quarterback Steve Pelluer from Dallas at…
Kansas City acquired quarterback Steve Pelluer from Dallas at the October 17, 1989 trade deadline for a 1990 third-round pick and a conditional 1991 selection that became No. 106. Pelluer provided short-term quarterback depth but did not become a long-term Chiefs starter. Dallas recovered two draft assets for a holdout quarterback outside its plans, including valuable third-round capital, making the Cowboys' side stronger over time.
Dallas Cowboys Received
- pick 1990 third round pick (#68-Ron Lewis)
- pick 1991 conditional round pick (depending on Pelluer's performance) (#106-Bill Musgrave)
Kansas City Chiefs Received
- player Steve Pelluer
Trade Analysis
Why Kansas City Wanted Pelluer
The Chiefs acquired Steve Pelluer at the 1989 trade deadline while looking for quarterback help after an injury to Ron Jaworski. Pelluer had started 14 games for Dallas in 1988 but was a holdout in 1989 and no longer fit the Cowboys' direction. Kansas City sent one 1990 selection plus a conditional 1991 choice, with the later pick tied to Pelluer's performance.
What Kansas City Received
Pelluer gave the Chiefs an experienced quarterback immediately, which had situational value for a team seeking depth during the season. His Kansas City tenure, however, was short and did not establish him as a durable long-term starter. That limits the payoff from surrendering two draft assets, even though the original motivation was understandable and the team filled an immediate roster need.
How Dallas's Return Developed
The 1990 compensation became third-round pick No. 68, Ron Lewis. The conditional 1991 component also conveyed and became pick No. 106, Bill Musgrave. Dallas therefore received two defined draft assets for a quarterback who was holding out and whom the new coaching staff was prepared to move. The Cowboys also had the ability to use the higher 1990 selection in later draft maneuvering rather than being locked into one player outcome.
Final Verdict
Kansas City gets credit for addressing a real quarterback need, which keeps its grade at C rather than below average. Dallas nevertheless made the stronger asset decision. It converted a player with little place in its future into a third-round pick and an additional conditional choice that actually conveyed. That is a favorable return for a departing veteran. Dallas earns B and the overall result is a Dallas Cowboys Win.