Dallas acquired running back Alonzo Highsmith from the…
Dallas acquired running back Alonzo Highsmith from the Houston Oilers on September 3, 1990, surrendering a 1991 second-round pick and a 1992 fifth-rounder. Houston used the second-round choice on Darryll Lewis and the later pick on Tim Roberts. Highsmith's Dallas stay was brief and injury-limited, while Lewis became a long-term starting defensive back and Pro Bowler, making Houston the clear winner.
Dallas Cowboys Received
- player Alonzo Highsmith (Walter)
Tennessee Titans Received
- pick 1991 second round pick (#38-Darryll Lewis)
- pick 1992 fifth round pick (#136-Tim Roberts)
Trade Analysis
Why the Deal Happened
Dallas was still searching for proven talent during its early Jimmy Johnson rebuild and took a chance on former high draft pick Alonzo Highsmith. Houston moved the running back on September 3, 1990, for a 1991 second-round selection and a 1992 fifth-round selection. The Cowboys were betting on immediate veteran help; the Oilers chose future draft capital and patience.
What Dallas and Houston Received
Dallas received Highsmith. Houston's 1991 second-round choice landed at No. 38 and became defensive back Darryll Lewis. The 1992 fifth-rounder landed at No. 136 and became Tim Roberts. That complete two-pick return is important because the second-rounder alone ultimately supplied more sustained value than Dallas received from Highsmith, while the later choice added another opportunity.
How the Value Developed
Highsmith's knees prevented the move from becoming the comeback Dallas hoped for. His Cowboys tenure was brief, and he was out of the team's plans soon afterward. Lewis became a fixture in Houston's secondary, played 141 NFL games, intercepted 32 passes, and earned a Pro Bowl selection in 1995. He gave the Oilers years of starting-caliber production from the principal asset received in the trade.
Final Verdict
Dallas's reasoning was understandable: a rebuilding club tried to buy low on a talented veteran. The actual return, however, was too small to justify giving away a second-round pick that became a long-term defensive starter and Pro Bowler. Houston also received the future fifth-rounder, widening the gap. The Oilers earn B+, Dallas C, and the Houston Oilers Win verdict reflects the much stronger realized return.