Cleveland acquired halfback Bill Boedeker from the Chicago…
Cleveland acquired halfback Bill Boedeker from the Chicago Rockets for tackle Jim Daniell and end John Harrington. Boedeker became a three-year Browns contributor and member of three straight AAFC championship teams, producing roughly 1,500 yards from scrimmage and 13 offensive touchdowns. Daniell never played for the Rockets, while Harrington contributed during the 1947 season. Cleveland received the stronger sustained return and earns an A grade.
Brooklyn Rockets Received
- player Jim Daniell
- player John Harrington
Cleveland Browns Received
- player Bill Boedeker
Trade Analysis
The Exchange
In February 1947, Cleveland sent tackle Jim Daniell and end John Harrington to the Chicago Rockets for halfback Bill Boedeker. Daniell had served as Cleveland's first captain, while Boedeker was a versatile back. The transaction therefore sent two Cleveland players to Chicago in exchange for Boedeker.
Cleveland Browns Return
Cleveland received the best asset in the deal. Boedeker played three seasons for the Browns from 1947 through 1949, appearing in 38 games and contributing as a runner, receiver and returner. Across those seasons he produced roughly 1,500 yards from scrimmage and 13 offensive touchdowns. More importantly for team-specific hindsight, he was part of Cleveland clubs that won the AAFC championship in each of his three seasons.
Chicago Rockets Return
Chicago's return was mixed. Daniell had been Cleveland's first captain, but he did not play a game for the Rockets after the trade. Harrington did. In 1947 he appeared in 13 games, started three, and caught 17 passes for 233 yards and three touchdowns. That is enough tangible production to keep the Rockets' side from being a failure, but it was concentrated in one player and one season.
Value in Hindsight
The comparison favors Cleveland in both duration and impact. Chicago received a useful 1947 season from Harrington, while Daniell produced no game value. Cleveland received three seasons from Boedeker, meaningful offensive production, and service throughout a championship run that lasted the remainder of the AAFC's existence.
Final Verdict
Cleveland wins with an A grade. The Rockets earn B-minus because Harrington supplied real receiving-team production, but Boedeker's sustained contribution and three championship seasons clearly separate the returns.