Philadelphia acquired quarterback Norm Van Brocklin from the…
Philadelphia acquired quarterback Norm Van Brocklin from the Rams for Buck Lansford, Jimmy Harris, and its 1959 first-round pick, which became No. 2 overall Dick Bass. Van Brocklin led the Eagles to the 1960 NFL championship and won league MVP in his final season. The Rams, however, landed a three-time Pro Bowl back in Bass plus two players, making this a rare blockbuster with elite value on both sides.
Los Angeles Rams Received
- player Buck Lansford
- player Jimmy Harris
- pick 1959 first round pick (#2-Dick Bass)
Philadelphia Eagles Received
- player Norm Van Brocklin
Trade Analysis
What the Trade Did
Philadelphia acquired Norm Van Brocklin from Los Angeles on May 26, 1958 for lineman Buck Lansford, Jimmy Harris, and the Eagles' 1959 first-round selection. That pick became No. 2 overall and the Rams used it on running back Dick Bass. The package was substantial because Los Angeles was giving up a proven championship quarterback rather than a declining reserve.
Why the Value Tilted
Van Brocklin transformed Philadelphia quickly. In three Eagles seasons he became the offense's on-field leader, and in 1960 he won league MVP while guiding Philadelphia to a 10-2 record and the NFL championship. The title game victory over Vince Lombardi's Packers gave the franchise its first championship since 1949. An A+ fits a short tenure that delivered the sport's ultimate result.
How the Outcome Aged
The Rams' return was far better than the old C-grade treatment suggests. Bass became a 10-year Ram, rushed for 5,417 yards, and made three Pro Bowls. Lansford also played several seasons in Los Angeles. Even if Harris contributed less, getting a long-term Pro Bowl back plus additional players gave the Rams substantial value after moving a quarterback who wanted a different situation.
Final Verdict
Philadelphia earns an A+ because Van Brocklin delivered an MVP season and a championship before retiring. Los Angeles earns an A because Bass became a multi-time Pro Bowler and durable offensive centerpiece, with Lansford adding further value. The Eagles captured the higher single-season peak, but the Rams received enough long-term production to prevent a loser label. This is best viewed as an Even Trade in which both clubs converted major assets into major results.