Minnesota acquired Frank Myers from the Colts in August 1978…
Minnesota acquired Frank Myers from the Colts in August 1978 for a 1979 eighth-round pick, No. 207. The Colts used that selection on defensive back Nesby Glasgow, who went on to a 14-season NFL career with 205 games, 145 starts, and 15 interceptions. Myers did not create comparable Minnesota value, so the late-round pick became a decisive long-term win for the Colts.
Indianapolis Colts Received
- pick 1979 eighth round pick (#207-Nesby Glasgow)
Minnesota Vikings Received
- player Frank Myers
Trade Analysis
The Exchange
On August 16, 1978, Minnesota acquired Frank Myers from the Colts for a 1979 eighth-round draft choice. The selection became No. 207 and was used on defensive back Nesby Glasgow. At the time, an eighth-rounder represented inexpensive compensation for immediate roster help, but the later career attached to the pick dramatically changed the value of the transaction.
Minnesota Vikings Return
Myers did not produce a Minnesota tenure that approached the value eventually created by the outgoing selection. The Vikings paid a very late pick, so the original risk was small, and a C- reflects that limited cost. Still, there is no meaningful on-field case for Minnesota once the Colts' draft result is compared directly with the player the Vikings acquired.
Baltimore/Indianapolis Colts Return
Glasgow became an extraordinary return for pick No. 207. He played 14 NFL seasons, appeared in 205 games, made 145 starts, and intercepted 15 passes. He spent a substantial portion of that career with the Colts and provided years of regular defensive work. That type of longevity from an eighth-round selection is far beyond ordinary expectations.
Value in Hindsight
The lopsided result was impossible to predict from the draft slot alone. Late picks frequently produce little or no NFL value, which is why Minnesota's acquisition cost initially looked minor. Glasgow instead became a long-term starter-level defensive back. When a throw-in caliber selection produces more than a decade of service, the retrospective value swings sharply toward the drafting club.
Final Verdict
The Colts win decisively, A- to C-. Minnesota's cost was low enough to avoid a failing grade, but its acquired player did not match the eventual return. The Colts transformed an eighth-round pick into a 205-game veteran, making the original even verdict much too conservative once the full careers are considered.