Oakland sent a 2000 third-round pick to Pittsburgh for two…
Oakland sent a 2000 third-round pick to Pittsburgh for two 1999 fifth-rounders, Nos. 146 and 163. The Raiders used No. 146 on linebacker Eric Barton, who played 160 NFL games and recorded 20 sacks. Pittsburgh later used the acquired third-rounder on Hank Poteat, a 110-game defensive back and returner. Both sides found NFL players, but Barton became the more impactful long-term starter.
Las Vegas Raiders Received
- pick 1999 5th round pick (146th overall, Eric Barton)
- pick 1999 5th round pick (163rd overall subsequently traded, Craig Heimburger )
Pittsburgh Steelers Received
- pick 2000 3rd round pick (77th overall, Hank Poteat)
Trade Analysis
Why the Raiders Took the Immediate Picks
Oakland gave Pittsburgh a future third-round selection in exchange for two fifth-rounders during the 1999 draft. The move favored immediate roster building, and the Raiders used No. 146 on linebacker Eric Barton. The second fifth-rounder was moved again, but Barton alone gave the trade a strong foundation. Spending a future third to create two current opportunities is aggressive, so Oakland needed at least one meaningful contributor for the exchange to work.
What Barton Became
Barton developed into a durable starting linebacker. He played 160 NFL games, recorded 20 sacks and accumulated hundreds of tackles over a long career. His best years were not confined to Oakland, but the Raiders received multiple seasons of starting-caliber production from a fifth-round pick created by this trade. That type of hit is exactly what makes an aggressive pick-conversion strategy worthwhile.
What Pittsburgh Got a Year Later
The Steelers used the 2000 third-round pick on defensive back Hank Poteat. Poteat also had excellent longevity, appearing in 110 career games and contributing on defense and returns. That keeps Pittsburgh’s side from looking poor. The difference is role and impact: Poteat was primarily a supporting player, while Barton became a regular starting linebacker and produced more sustained defensive value.
Final Verdict
Oakland Raiders Win. Oakland earns a B+ because Barton became the best player produced directly by the exchange and delivered substantial starting value. Pittsburgh receives a C+ because Poteat had a long useful career and justified much of the delayed third-round return. This was a productive trade for both clubs, but Barton’s 160-game career and larger defensive role give the Raiders the advantage.