New York acquired the rights to Tex Coulter from the Chicago…
New York acquired the rights to Tex Coulter from the Chicago Cardinals in a December 1946 swap of first-round draft choices, sending the rights to Vic Schwall in return. Coulter became a long-term Giants lineman and later earned Pro Bowl recognition, while Schwall played four NFL seasons with the Cardinals. The exchange produced real value on both sides.
Arizona Cardinals Received
- other rights to Vic Schwall
New York Giants Received
- other rights to DeWitt Coulter / Tex Coulter
Trade Analysis
The Exchange
On December 16, 1946, the Chicago Cardinals and New York Giants arranged a swap involving their first-round selections in the 1947 NFL draft. Chicago had selected tackle Tex Coulter seventh overall, while New York selected halfback Vic Schwall tenth. Contemporary Green Bay material says the Cardinals drafted Coulter with the understanding that his rights would be sent to the Giants for Schwall's rights.
New York Giants Return
New York received the rights to Coulter, who became a substantial Giants contributor. He played for New York across six NFL seasons, appeared in 69 games, and later earned Pro Bowl recognition. Coulter's long tenure gave the Giants durable value from the exchange and made the acquired draft rights more than a short-term roster move.
Chicago Cardinals Return
Chicago received the rights to Schwall, who also reached the NFL and spent four seasons with the Cardinals. He appeared in 41 career games and contributed as a runner and receiver. Schwall did not match Coulter's longevity or later honors, but he still turned the acquired rights into multiple seasons of usable NFL production.
Value in Hindsight
This was a genuine exchange of two first-round rights, not a deal involving extra unidentified assets. Both clubs converted those rights into players who reached the field for several seasons. Coulter produced the stronger individual career, while Schwall provided Chicago with a real multi-year return rather than a failed draft asset.
Final Verdict
An Even Trade with matching C grades captures the transaction's two-sided value without overstating the gap. New York received the more accomplished long-term player, but Chicago also obtained a first-round back who became a multi-season contributor. The trade delivered legitimate value to both teams and was far closer than the unsupported placeholder package suggested.