Minnesota acquired safety Phil Wise from the Jets for two…
Minnesota acquired safety Phil Wise from the Jets for two future selections, a 1978 eighth-round pick and a 1979 tenth-round pick. Wise played 30 games for the Vikings and started all 16 games in 1978. The Jets used the picks on Roy Eppes and Ed McGlasson; Eppes never played in the NFL and McGlasson appeared in only seven Jets games. Minnesota received the stronger return.
Minnesota Vikings Received
- player Phil Wise
New York Jets Received
- pick 1978 eighth round pick (#213-Roy Eppes)
- pick 1979 tenth round pick (#263-Ed McGlasson)
Trade Analysis
The Exchange
The Jets traded safety Phil Wise to Minnesota in August 1977 for two future draft selections. Vikings draft history identifies the return as a 1978 eighth-round pick, No. 213 Roy Eppes, and a 1979 tenth-round pick, No. 263 Ed McGlasson.
What Minnesota Vikings Received
Wise became a useful defensive contributor. Pro Football Reference shows 13 Minnesota games in 1977, then all 16 games and 16 starts in 1978 before one final Vikings appearance in 1979. That produced 30 games and a complete season as a starter for the acquiring club.
What New York Jets Received
The Jets received two chances in the late rounds, but neither became a comparable direct contributor. Eppes did not play in an NFL regular-season game. McGlasson appeared in seven games for the Jets without a start before later playing for other teams.
How the Value Developed
Minnesota converted two low-cost future picks into immediate secondary help, while New York's selections generated very little direct playing time. Wise's 16-start 1978 season by itself created more meaningful team value than the Jets received from both picks combined.
Why the Difference Matters
The surrendered capital was modest, so Minnesota did not need star production to win the exchange. Thirty games and one full season as a starter represent a solid result for an eighth- and tenth-round package.
Final Verdict
Minnesota receives a B and the Jets receive a D+. The final call is Minnesota Vikings Win because Wise delivered a clear and useful starting return while the two New York selections produced almost no direct value.