Dallas acquired linebacker Jackie Burkett from New Orleans on…
Dallas acquired linebacker Jackie Burkett from New Orleans on August 28, 1968 in exchange for veteran tackle Jim Boeke. Burkett appeared in three games for the Cowboys in 1968 and 11 more in 1969. His Dallas tenure was not a major statistical chapter, but the Cowboys received two seasons of roster service from the player they acquired.
Dallas Cowboys Received
- player Jackie Burkett
New Orleans Saints Received
- player Jim Boeke
Trade Analysis
The Veteran Exchange
Dallas and New Orleans completed a player-for-player trade in late August 1968, sending linebacker Jackie Burkett to the Cowboys and tackle Jim Boeke to the Saints. Both players were experienced veterans, so the transaction was about filling immediate roster needs rather than acquiring developmental draft capital.
Boeke's Saints Season
New Orleans received a proven offensive lineman who could provide depth to a young franchise. Boeke appeared in 13 games for the Saints in 1968 and made one start. That availability had value, particularly for a club still building its roster, but his Saints tenure did not extend into a meaningful multi-year run.
Burkett in Dallas
Burkett appeared in three games for Dallas during the 1968 season and returned for 11 more games in 1969. His statistical footprint was naturally limited by his position, and he did not become a long-term Cowboys starter. Still, Dallas received two seasons of roster service from the player acquired in the exchange.
Comparing Modest Returns
This was not a franchise-altering transaction for either team. New Orleans got more games in the first season, while Dallas received the longer tenure. Because both players were veterans near the later portions of their careers, the correct evaluation is based on useful roster time rather than star-level production.
Final Verdict
Dallas Cowboys Win, narrowly. Dallas earns a B-minus for receiving two seasons of service from Burkett, while New Orleans earns a C-plus for Boeke's 13-game 1968 contribution. The difference is small, but the additional season of realized roster value gives the Cowboys the edge.
Boeke gave New Orleans one season and 13 games of veteran line depth, while Burkett remained with Dallas for two seasons and 14 appearances. The difference was small, but Dallas received the longer roster tenure from an otherwise low-impact player swap. overall.