San Francisco acquired the 55th pick in the 2013 draft from…
San Francisco acquired the 55th pick in the 2013 draft from Green Bay for picks 61 and 173. The 49ers selected tight end Vance McDonald, while the Packers selected running back Eddie Lacy at 61 and later moved the 173rd pick. McDonald built a useful career, but Lacy's immediate impact, including a 1,000-yard rookie season and major offensive role, gives Green Bay the stronger return.
San Francisco 49ers Received
- pick 2013 2nd round pick (55th overall, Vance McDonald )
Green Bay Packers Received
- pick 2013 2nd round pick (61st overall, Eddie Lacy )
- pick 2013 6th round pick (173rd overall subsequently traded, Vinston Painter )
Trade Analysis
The Exchange
On the second day of the 2013 draft, San Francisco traded picks 61 and 173 to Green Bay for the 55th selection. The 49ers used No. 55 on tight end Vance McDonald. Green Bay used No. 61 on Alabama running back Eddie Lacy and retained the additional sixth-round asset, which was later moved in another transaction.
San Francisco 49ers Return
McDonald became a legitimate NFL player. He spent four seasons with San Francisco before continuing his career in Pittsburgh, developing into a capable receiving tight end with useful in-line value. His career longevity and later production mean the 49ers did not miss badly on the player they targeted. Still, his peak impact in San Francisco was modest relative to the value surrendered to move up.
Green Bay Packers Return
Lacy delivered immediate production. He topped 1,000 rushing yards in each of his first two seasons, scored double-digit rushing touchdowns as a rookie and became a central part of Green Bay's offense. His prime was shorter than the Packers would have preferred, but the early return from pick 61 was substantial. Green Bay also acquired the 173rd choice, giving the club additional draft flexibility beyond Lacy.
Value in Hindsight
McDonald's longer career keeps this from becoming a rout, but Lacy produced the higher-impact seasons and Green Bay received an extra asset while moving down only six spots. That is a favorable combination of draft efficiency and realized player value.
Final Verdict
Green Bay earns a B+ and San Francisco a C+. The Packers found the better peak performer and added another selection. The 49ers still acquired a useful tight end, so the move-up was defensible, but the completed value comparison favors Green Bay.