Minnesota sent Sage Rosenfels and Darius Reynaud to New York…
Minnesota sent Sage Rosenfels and Darius Reynaud to New York for a 2011 fifth-round pick plus a conditional 2012 choice that was not exercised. The Vikings later traded the fifth-rounder to Cleveland for two sixth-rounders, producing DeMarcus Love and Mistral Raymond; Raymond made 10 starts in Minnesota. Rosenfels served as Eli Manning’s backup and Reynaud handled returns briefly, so Minnesota’s draft return wins narrowly.
Minnesota Vikings Received
- pick 2011 5th round pick (150th overall subsequently traded, Jason Pinkston)
New York Giants Received
- player Sage Rosenfels
- player Darius Reynaud
Trade Analysis
Why the Giants Made the Deal
New York acquired quarterback Sage Rosenfels and return specialist Darius Reynaud from Minnesota just before the 2010 season. The Giants sent a 2011 fifth-round pick and a conditional 2012 selection based on Rosenfels’ playing time. The conditional choice was not exercised. New York wanted an experienced backup behind Eli Manning and a return option after losing Domenik Hixon.
What the Giants Received
Rosenfels served as Manning’s backup throughout 2010 and saw limited quarterback action, giving the Giants experienced insurance at the position. Reynaud handled return duties but did not develop into a major offensive piece for New York. The pair addressed immediate depth needs, but neither became a long-term core player. Rosenfels spent the following season on injured reserve before leaving the organization.
How Minnesota Reused the Pick
The 2011 fifth-rounder became No. 150. Minnesota did not make the selection; it traded No. 150 to Cleveland for sixth-round picks No. 168 and No. 170. The Vikings selected offensive lineman DeMarcus Love and safety Mistral Raymond. Love never appeared in a regular-season game, but Raymond played 34 games and made 10 starts over three Minnesota seasons, giving the pick chain tangible defensive value.
Why the Margin Is Narrow
The Giants bought short-term depth at two positions and received what they needed for the 2010 roster. Minnesota accepted future value and eventually produced one useful defender. Neither side found a star, and the unexercised conditional pick limits the Vikings’ haul.
Final Verdict
Minnesota Vikings Win. The Vikings earn a B- because the fifth-round asset eventually produced multiple picks and a 10-start defender. New York receives a C+ for useful but brief quarterback and return depth. The difference is longevity rather than a dramatic talent gap.