Atlanta Falcons received Joel Williams (b. 1956-12-13) from…

The Exchange

On 1986-04-29, Atlanta Falcons and Philadelphia Eagles completed a deal in which Atlanta Falcons received Joel Williams (b. 1956-12-13), while Philadelphia Eagles received 1986 fifth round pick (#128-Dan McMillen). The comparison focuses on what each original club actually obtained from the exchange. Later asset movement matters only when it clarifies the value attached to something that changed hands.

Atlanta Falcons Return

Atlanta Falcons received Joel Williams (b. 1956-12-13) from Philadelphia Eagles, sending 1986 fifth round pick (#128-Dan McMillen) the other way. The historical package is correct, but hindsight strongly favors Atlanta rather than Philadelphia. That outcome supports a A- grade for Atlanta Falcons, and the overall verdict is Atlanta Falcons Win.

Philadelphia Eagles Return

Philadelphia Eagles received 1986 fifth round pick (#128-Dan McMillen) from Atlanta Falcons, sending Joel Williams (b. 1956-12-13) the other way. The historical package is correct, but hindsight strongly favors Atlanta rather than Philadelphia. That outcome supports a D grade for Philadelphia Eagles, and the overall verdict is Atlanta Falcons Win.

Value in Hindsight

Philadelphia traded linebacker Joel Williams to Atlanta during the 1986 draft for a fifth-round pick, No. 128 Dan McMillen. Williams returned to Atlanta and started 37 games over the next four seasons, whereas McMillen appeared in only two NFL games. The historical package is correct, but hindsight strongly favors Atlanta rather than Philadelphia. If a draft choice was moved again, the later trail can explain what the original consideration became, but unrelated success after another transaction is not credited twice. Where one historical detail remains uncertain, the evaluation uses the strongest supported description instead of filling the gap with speculation.

Final Verdict

The final call is Atlanta Falcons Win. Atlanta Falcons receives A-, while Philadelphia Eagles receives D. The verdict follows the stronger supported direct return for the original club rather than unrelated value created later. The grades remain proportional to the size and certainty of the exchange, rewarding real value while keeping a measured distinction between a clear edge and an overwhelming win.