New Orleans reacquired linebacker Jackie Burkett from Dallas…
New Orleans reacquired linebacker Jackie Burkett from Dallas on June 23, 1970 for veteran safety Dave Whitsell and rookie running back Tom Broadhead. Burkett played all 14 games, started 10, intercepted four passes, and handled long-snapping duties in his final NFL season.
Dallas Cowboys Received
- player Dave Whitsell
- player Tom Broadhead
New Orleans Saints Received
- player Jackie Burkett
Trade Analysis
The Exchange
The Saints and Cowboys 1970 media guides agree on the structure: Jackie Burkett returned to New Orleans, while Dallas received Dave Whitsell and rookie running back Tom Broadhead. Contemporary biographical records date the trade to June 23, 1970.
New Orleans' Return
Burkett immediately reclaimed a real role. NFL records show 14 games and 10 starts for the Saints in 1970 with four interceptions for 36 yards. He also served as the team's long snapper, including the snap on Tom Dempsey's then-record 63-yard field goal against Detroit. He retired after the season, so the value was short-lived but meaningful.
Dallas' Return
Neither acquired player produced regular-season value for the Cowboys. Pro Football Archives records Whitsell being traded to Dallas and released on August 25, 1970 after twelve NFL seasons. Broadhead, a 1969 Saints draft pick, was traded to Dallas on June 23 and likewise released without an NFL regular-season appearance.
Final Verdict
New Orleans Saints Win. The Saints earn a B because Burkett started 10 games, played all 14, intercepted four passes and handled a key specialist role. Dallas earns a D+ because both incoming assets were released before contributing in the regular season. The value gap is clear even though Burkett only played one final year.