NFL Trade Verdict

Chicago Bears Win

Summary: Pittsburgh sent the 1941 third overall pick to Chicago for Bill Patterson. Chicago used the pick on Norm Standlee, a three-time All-Pro fullback who played a key role in their 1941 title run. Analysis: Norm Standlee became an immediate contributor and All-Pro on a championship squad. Bill Patterson contributed little of substance in Pittsburgh. Trading a top-three pick for a backup-caliber player is a losing proposition, particularly when the player selected becomes a title contributor. Grade upgraded from C+ to D for Pittsburgh.

August 10, 1940 Pittsburgh SteelersChicago Bears Confidence: high Tier: major

Chicago Bears Received

  • pick 1941 first round pick (#3-Norm Standlee)

Trade Summary

Summary: Pittsburgh sent the 1941 third overall pick to Chicago for Bill Patterson. Chicago used the pick on Norm Standlee, a three-time All-Pro fullback who played a key role in their 1941 title run. Analysis: Norm Standlee became an immediate contributor and All-Pro on a championship squad. Bill Patterson contributed little of substance in Pittsburgh. Trading a top-three pick for a backup-caliber player is a losing proposition, particularly when the player selected becomes a title contributor. Grade upgraded from C+ to D for Pittsburgh.

Trade Analysis

Summary: Pittsburgh sent the 1941 third overall pick to Chicago for Bill Patterson. Chicago used the pick on Norm Standlee, a three-time All-Pro fullback who played a key role in their 1941 title run. Analysis: Norm Standlee became an immediate contributor and All-Pro on a championship squad. Bill Patterson contributed little of substance in Pittsburgh. Trading a top-three pick for a backup-caliber player is a losing proposition, particularly when the player selected becomes a title contributor. Grade upgraded from C+ to D for Pittsburgh. Chicago Bears received 1941 first round pick (#3-Norm Standlee) and gave up Bill Patterson / Billy Patterson. The partner grade reflects the same value curve from the opposite side of the transaction.