Cleveland acquired Gary Danielson from Detroit for a 1986…
Cleveland acquired Gary Danielson from Detroit for a 1986 third-round pick that became guard Joe Milinichik. Danielson immediately started six games for the 1985 Browns, went 4-2 and threw for 1,274 yards with eight touchdowns, then remained useful quarterback depth. Milinichik later played 41 games with 16 starts for Detroit. Both sides received value, but Cleveland's quarterback contribution in a playoff season earns the narrow edge.
Cleveland Browns Received
- player Gary Danielson
Detroit Lions Received
- pick 1986 third round pick (#69-Joe Milinichik)
Trade Analysis
The Exchange
On April 30, 1985, Cleveland acquired quarterback Gary Danielson from Detroit for a 1986 third-round choice. Detroit used the 69th overall pick on offensive lineman Joe Milinichik. This was not a one-sided exchange: Cleveland sought experienced quarterback help, while Detroit converted a veteran into a relatively valuable draft choice and eventually received starting-lineup service from the selection.
Cleveland Browns Return
Danielson mattered immediately. In 1985 he appeared in eight games, started six, went 4-2 and threw for 1,274 yards, eight touchdowns and six interceptions. Cleveland won the AFC Central that season, making those starts more consequential than ordinary reserve duty. Danielson remained with the Browns beyond 1985 and continued to provide experienced quarterback depth and additional starts.
Detroit Lions Return
Milinichik required some development but eventually became useful. He appeared in 11 games as a rookie in 1987, then started 15 games in 1988. Across his Detroit tenure he played 41 games and made 16 starts. That is solid third-round value, especially for an offensive lineman, and it prevents the Lions from receiving a low grade simply because the Browns benefited sooner.
Value in Hindsight
The trade is close because both teams received real NFL service. Detroit got a starting-season stretch and several years of line depth. Cleveland, however, acquired a quarterback who immediately went 4-2 in six starts during a division-winning season. Positional importance and timing give those starts extra weight.
Final Verdict
Cleveland wins narrowly. The Browns earn a B for useful quarterback play that helped a playoff team, while Detroit earns a B- for Milinichik's 41 games and 16 starts. The Lions did well; Cleveland simply extracted the more consequential return.