NFL Trade Verdict

San Francisco 49ers Win

Summary: Pittsburgh sent two future first-round picks and Marv Matuszak to San Francisco in exchange for quarterback Earl Morrall and Mike Sandusky. Analysis: Pittsburgh surrendered enormous draft capital — two first-rounders (#8 in 1958 and #8 in 1959) plus a player — for Earl Morrall, a capable but not elite quarterback. San Francisco used those picks wisely. Morrall was a useful starter in Pittsburgh but did not justify the premium of two first-round selections. This is a clear loss for Pittsburgh, compounded by the subsequent Layne acquisition that further drained resources. Downgraded from C+ to D.

September 16, 1957 Pittsburgh SteelersSan Francisco 49ers Confidence: high Tier: major

San Francisco 49ers Received

Trade Summary

Summary: Pittsburgh sent two future first-round picks and Marv Matuszak to San Francisco in exchange for quarterback Earl Morrall and Mike Sandusky. Analysis: Pittsburgh surrendered enormous draft capital — two first-rounders (#8 in 1958 and #8 in 1959) plus a player — for Earl Morrall, a capable but not elite quarterback. San Francisco used those picks wisely. Morrall was a useful starter in Pittsburgh but did not justify the premium of two first-round selections. This is a clear loss for Pittsburgh, compounded by the subsequent Layne acquisition that further drained resources. Downgraded from C+ to D.

Trade Analysis

Summary: Pittsburgh sent two future first-round picks and Marv Matuszak to San Francisco in exchange for quarterback Earl Morrall and Mike Sandusky. Analysis: Pittsburgh surrendered enormous draft capital — two first-rounders (#8 in 1958 and #8 in 1959) plus a player — for Earl Morrall, a capable but not elite quarterback. San Francisco used those picks wisely. Morrall was a useful starter in Pittsburgh but did not justify the premium of two first-round selections. This is a clear loss for Pittsburgh, compounded by the subsequent Layne acquisition that further drained resources. Downgraded from C+ to D. San Francisco 49ers received Marv Matuszak; 1958 first round pick (#8-Jim Pace); 1959 first round pick (#8-Dan James) and gave up Earl Morrall; Mike Sandusky. The partner grade reflects the same value curve from the opposite side of the transaction.