New York sent Dick Nolan and rookie Bobby Joe Conrad to the…
New York sent Dick Nolan and rookie Bobby Joe Conrad to the Chicago Cardinals for defensive back Lindon Crow and kicker-end Pat Summerall. Crow became a multi-year Giants starter and intercepted Johnny Unitas in the 1958 championship game, while Summerall supplied important kicking. Conrad developed into a long-term Cardinals standout, keeping the trade productive on both sides despite New York's slight edge.
Arizona Cardinals Received
- player Dick Nolan
- player Bobby Joe Conrad
New York Giants Received
- player Lindon Crow
- player Pat Summerall
Trade Analysis
What the Trade Actually Did
On May 10, 1958, the Giants and Chicago Cardinals completed a four-player swap. New York received defensive back Lindon Crow and Pat Summerall, then still a player and kicker. The Cardinals received defensive back Dick Nolan and rookie Bobby Joe Conrad. No extra consideration is needed to explain the deal.
Why New York Made the Move
The Giants were built to contend immediately and added two players who could help that season. Crow stepped into the secondary and started 10 games in 1958. Summerall gave New York a dependable kicking option and also remained part of the roster through the club's championship-era seasons.
The 1958 Impact
Crow's first Giants season included three interceptions and a memorable pick of Johnny Unitas in the NFL Championship Game against Baltimore. Summerall's kicking became part of the team's late-season and playoff identity. New York reached the title game in the first year after the trade, so the incoming veterans supplied exactly the kind of immediate value the Giants sought.
What the Cardinals Received
Chicago did not lose the deal badly. Conrad became a durable, versatile Cardinal, beginning as a defensive back and kicker before developing into a productive offensive player. His long tenure gave the Cardinals more sustained individual value than either outgoing player alone. Nolan also provided veteran secondary help before later becoming better known as a coach.
Final Verdict
Both teams received meaningful football value. New York earns an A- because Crow and Summerall immediately strengthened a championship contender and remained useful contributors. The Cardinals earn a B+ because Conrad developed into an important long-term player. The Giants win narrowly on the combined impact and timing of their return.
Both clubs received major contributors, with New York adding immediate championship help and the Cardinals developing Conrad into a long-term offensive standout.