From St. Louis/Arizona Cardinals's side, the exchange…
From St. Louis/Arizona Cardinals's side, the exchange delivered cash in return for Phil Spiller. Spiller started seven games for Atlanta before being released in late October, giving the Falcons tangible short-term value. That balance supports a C grade for St. Louis/Arizona Cardinals and a B- for Atlanta Falcons, with the final call at Atlanta Falcons Win.
Arizona Cardinals Received
- other cash
Atlanta Falcons Received
- player Phil Spiller
Trade Analysis
The Exchange
Atlanta Falcons received Phil Spiller, while St. Louis/Arizona Cardinals received cash. Atlanta purchased Spiller on August 15, 1968, and he played seven games with seven starts for the Falcons before being released in late October. The fairest hindsight test is the actual roster service and durable asset value created by each side compared with the cost surrendered.
Arizona Cardinals Return
From St. Louis/Arizona Cardinals's side, the exchange delivered cash in return for Phil Spiller. Spiller started seven games for Atlanta before being released in late October, giving the Falcons tangible short-term value. That balance supports a C grade for St. Louis/Arizona Cardinals and a B- for Atlanta Falcons, with the final call at Atlanta Falcons Win.
Atlanta Falcons Return
Atlanta Falcons received Phil Spiller, while St. Louis/Arizona Cardinals received cash. Spiller started seven games for Atlanta before being released in late October, giving the Falcons tangible short-term value. The hindsight grades are B- for Atlanta Falcons and C for St. Louis/Arizona Cardinals, producing a Atlanta Falcons Win verdict.
Value in Hindsight
The separation between the teams is based on realized value and the scale of the cost. Spiller started seven games for Atlanta before being released in late October, giving the Falcons tangible short-term value. A short-lived acquisition can still be worthwhile when the price is tiny, while a player who generates no regular-season contribution can leave the selling club ahead in an obscure deal. The available evidence is specific enough to make that comparison without overstating either side's gain.
Final Verdict
The final call is Atlanta Falcons Win. Atlanta Falcons receives a B-, while St. Louis/Arizona Cardinals receives a C. Those grades reflect the verified terms, subsequent service or asset value, and the modest scale of the exchange.