New England received Leroy Thompson, who delivered one…
New England received Leroy Thompson, who delivered one productive all-purpose season for the Patriots. That immediate contribution gave New England useful value, though the return was not so large or durable that it clearly separated the Patriots from Pittsburgh. The B- grade reflects that realized football value and the complete supported package, while the overall verdict is Even Trade.
New England Patriots Received
- player Leroy Thompson
Pittsburgh Steelers Received
- pick 1995 4th round pick (120th overall, Oliver Gibson )
Trade Analysis
The Exchange
On 1994-08-10, New England Patriots and Pittsburgh Steelers completed this exchange. New England Patriots received Leroy Thompson, while Pittsburgh Steelers received 1995 4th round pick (120th overall, Oliver Gibson). Historical team, draft, and player records support that package and provide enough career context to compare what each side actually gained.
New England Patriots Return
New England received Leroy Thompson, who delivered one productive all-purpose season for the Patriots. That immediate contribution gave New England useful value, though the return was not so large or durable that it clearly separated the Patriots from Pittsburgh. The B- grade reflects that realized football value and the complete supported package, while the overall verdict is Even Trade.
Pittsburgh Steelers Return
Pittsburgh received the 1995 fourth-round choice at No. 120 and used it on Oliver Gibson. Gibson spent four seasons as a rotational defensive lineman for the Steelers, providing a longer but less explosive return that balances Thompson's productive Patriots season. The B- grade reflects that realized football value and the complete supported package, while the overall verdict is Even Trade.
Value in Hindsight
The returns were different in shape but close in overall effect. New England Patriots received useful value without a decisive long-term windfall, while Pittsburgh Steelers also obtained a meaningful return without clearly separating from the other side. The B- and B- grades reflect that balance.
Final Verdict
The final call is Even Trade. New England Patriots earns a B-, and Pittsburgh Steelers earns a B-. Those grades weigh the documented assets, the length and quality of the resulting contributions, and the practical value each club actually realized after the exchange.