Chicago purchased Red Dunn, Bub Weller and Hal Erickson from…
Chicago purchased Red Dunn, Bub Weller and Hal Erickson from financially strained Milwaukee before the 1925 season, acquiring three established Badgers in one cash transaction. The trio immediately became major Cardinals contributors during Chicago’s championship campaign, with Dunn directing the offense, Weller starting on the line and Erickson working in the backfield. Milwaukee received needed cash, but Chicago captured far greater lasting football value.
Arizona Cardinals Received
- player Joseph Dunn / Red Dunn
- player Raymond Weller / Bub Weller
- player Hal Erickson
Milwaukee Badgers Received
- other cash (amount undisclosed)
Trade Analysis
The Exchange
Historical accounts describe Milwaukee owner Ambrose McGurk running short of funds and selling several of his leading players. Chicago owner Chris O’Brien purchased Red Dunn, Bub Weller and Hal Erickson together for what later coverage called a considerable amount of cash. The financial pressure explains why the Badgers accepted a deal that looks lopsided in football hindsight.
Chicago Cardinals Return
Chicago purchased Red Dunn, Bub Weller and Hal Erickson from financially strained Milwaukee before the 1925 season, acquiring three established Badgers in one cash transaction. The trio immediately became major Cardinals contributors during Chicago’s championship campaign, with Dunn directing the offense, Weller starting on the line and Erickson working in the backfield. Milwaukee received needed cash, but Chicago captured far greater lasting football value.
Milwaukee Badgers Return
Milwaukee sold Red Dunn, Bub Weller and Hal Erickson to the Chicago Cardinals for a substantial but undisclosed cash payment as the Badgers faced financial trouble. The money addressed an immediate business need, yet the football cost was severe: all three players became important Cardinals in 1925, and Dunn later starred against his former club. Chicago’s instant championship-season return makes the value gap substantial.
Value in Hindsight
The older row used September 4, but the NFL-research note that Dunn faced Milwaukee on October 4 exactly 34 days after the trade points to August 31. Early-era transaction dates can vary across later compilations, so the confidence level remains medium even though the three-player package and cash direction are well supported.
Final Verdict
Chicago wins decisively. An A reflects three immediate contributors acquired together during a championship season. Milwaukee receives D+ because cash had real survival value for a struggling club, but selling a productive trio created a major football loss that the financial return cannot offset in hindsight.