Minnesota acquired Tony Galbreath from New Orleans on August…
Minnesota acquired Tony Galbreath from New Orleans on August 31, 1981 for the 1982 third-round pick that became Eugene Goodlow. Galbreath gave the Vikings three useful seasons, totaling 788 rushing yards and 645 receiving yards while starting 11 games. Goodlow later became a productive Saints receiver with 1,677 yards and 10 touchdowns. Both teams turned the exchange into legitimate multi-year production.
Minnesota Vikings Received
- player Tony Galbreath
New Orleans Saints Received
- pick 1982 third round pick (#66-Eugene Goodlow)
Trade Analysis
Why Minnesota Wanted Galbreath
The Vikings acquired veteran running back Tony Galbreath from New Orleans just before the 1981 season for a future third-round pick. Galbreath was a proven runner and receiver who could contribute immediately instead of making Minnesota wait for the 1982 draft.
What Minnesota Received
Galbreath played three seasons for the Vikings. Across 1981 through 1983 he rushed for 788 yards and added 645 receiving yards, with his largest Minnesota season coming in 1983. He was not a franchise centerpiece, but his versatility provided useful offense and dependable veteran depth over multiple years.
What New Orleans Received
The Saints used the acquired No. 66 selection on wide receiver Eugene Goodlow. His New Orleans career lasted four seasons from 1983 through 1986. Goodlow caught 115 passes for 1,677 yards and 10 touchdowns, including a 603-yard season in 1985. That is substantial production from a third-round selection.
Why Neither Side Separates
Minnesota received value sooner and got three seasons from a veteran who could run, catch and protect the offense. New Orleans accepted the delay and ultimately developed a receiver who contributed for four seasons and produced more than 1,600 receiving yards. Neither return overwhelmed the other when acquisition cost and timing are considered.
Taken together, the production and acquisition cost show why the grade should follow realized team contribution rather than reputation or draft position alone.
Final Verdict
Both teams earn a B. Galbreath was a worthwhile veteran addition for Minnesota, while Goodlow became a productive homegrown receiver for New Orleans. Each club received real multi-year football value, making Even Trade the fairest conclusion.