Minnesota sent the negotiating rights to first-round receiver…
Minnesota sent the negotiating rights to first-round receiver Jack Snow to the Rams in a deal that brought veteran receiver Red Phillips and defensive lineman Gary Larsen to the Vikings. Transaction histories split the chronology between Snow’s rights move and the completed player package. All three became significant NFL contributors, with Snow giving Los Angeles the longest single-team payoff.
Los Angeles Rams Received
- other rights to Jack Snow
Minnesota Vikings Received
- player Red Phillips (Jim Phillips)
- player Gary Larsen
Trade Analysis
The Exchange
Minnesota drafted Notre Dame receiver Jack Snow eighth overall for the 1965 season, but his negotiating rights moved to Los Angeles before he ever played for the Vikings. The Rams sent veteran receiver Red Phillips, whose full name was Jim Phillips, and defensive lineman Gary Larsen to Minnesota. Historical transaction listings show a two-step chronology: Snow’s rights are dated December 5, while Larsen’s move to Minnesota is dated December 30, matching the completed package date carried here.
Minnesota Vikings Return
Larsen became an excellent acquisition. After one Rams season, he spent the next decade with Minnesota, started extensively on the defensive line, and became part of the Vikings’ celebrated front. Phillips also brought established receiving credentials and veteran value. Minnesota therefore received two real NFL players, including one who became a long-term defensive fixture.
Los Angeles Rams Return
Snow was the centerpiece for Los Angeles and justified the pursuit. He played 11 NFL seasons, all with the Rams, and started 138 games. His long tenure and sustained receiving role made him the best single career generated by the transaction. The Rams secured exactly what they wanted: control of a first-round-caliber receiver who became a franchise mainstay.
Value in Hindsight
This was a rare trade in which both sides found substantial value. Minnesota did not merely surrender a premium draft right; Larsen became a major piece of its defense, and Phillips supplied additional veteran return. Los Angeles nevertheless obtained the longest uninterrupted single-team career and a productive receiver for more than a decade.
Final Verdict
The Rams retain the win, A- to Minnesota’s B, because Snow’s 11-year tenure delivered the strongest singular payoff. Minnesota’s grade remains solid because Larsen’s long Vikings career and Phillips’ contribution made the return meaningful. The supported player naming and two-step December chronology make the exchange clearer without diminishing either side’s success.