Detroit acquired Charlie West from Minnesota on September 10,…
Detroit acquired Charlie West from Minnesota on September 10, 1974, for a 1975 third-round selection that ultimately became No. 63. West became a regular Lions starter through 1977. Minnesota later traded the No. 63 choice to New Orleans for Andy Maurer, so Elois Grooms' selection belongs to the Saints' later use of the pick rather than directly to the Vikings.
Detroit Lions Received
- player Charlie West
Minnesota Vikings Received
- pick 1975 third round pick (#63, later traded to New Orleans; Elois Grooms selected by New Orleans)
Trade Analysis
What Changed Hands
Detroit acquired defensive back Charlie West from Minnesota in September 1974 for a 1975 third-round selection. That pick ultimately slotted at No. 63. Minnesota later traded the choice to New Orleans for Andy Maurer, so the Vikings' asset is described as the No. 63 selection later moved to the Saints rather than directly crediting Minnesota with the player New Orleans eventually drafted.
Why the Date Is Settled
Detroit's official trade history lists the acquisition of Charles West from Minnesota on September 10, 1974, for a 1975 third-round pick. Pro Football Archives also records West as traded to Detroit on September 10. A retrospective draft-pick transaction table uses September 11, but the Lions' own transaction history and West's player history support September 10.
How the Return Played Out
West became a substantial Detroit contributor. He started 10 games in 1974, then started every game in 1975, 1976 and 1977, giving the Lions four seasons of regular secondary work. Minnesota did not simply select Elois Grooms with the received pick; the Vikings moved that choice to New Orleans in a separate deal for Maurer.
Value on Both Sides
Detroit obtained the most direct on-field value from the original transaction through West's sustained starting role. Minnesota retained value by turning the draft choice into another veteran transaction, which prevents the deal from being treated as a pure loss. The old equal grades are somewhat generous to Minnesota but remain defensible because the pick stayed useful as trade capital.
Final Verdict
The canonical date moves to September 10, 1974, and the pick description now reflects its later trade to New Orleans. The Even Trade verdict and B grades remain unchanged.