SAN DIEGO, CA – JANUARY 25: Brett Favre #4 of the Green Bay Packers drops back to pass against the Denver Broncos during Super Bowl XXXII on January 25, 1998 at Qualcomm Stadium in San Diego, California. The Broncos won the Super Bowl 31-24. (Photo by Focus on Sport/Getty Images)
There have been a few trades in the history of the NFL that have changed the franchises involved forever. Here is the best trade ever made by each NFL team.
One great trade can change the course of an NFL franchise forever. Conversely, one incredibly dumb trade can set a franchise back years. Whether it’s a franchise quarterback or a slew of draft picks going from one team to another, some trades will always be remembered.
Throughout history, teams have been made up mostly of players they never drafted. The Panthers’ star tight end was picked by the Chicago Bears, and went to Carolina via trade. Everywhere you look on the football field, you can see players who arrive at their teams via trade.
In some cases, those trades have an impact that last long after the player has hung up his cleats for good. In this slideshow, we take a look at the single greatest trade for every team in the NFL. The list includes Hall of Famers, franchise players and leaders who went on to take their new organization to the Super Bowl.
These trades not only show how great one team made out, but also how much their trade partners lost. The ramifications of some of these trades can still be felt today, while some teams have moved on.
Here is every NFL team’s greatest ever trade.
SAN DIEGO, CA – AUGUST 19: Quarterback Carson Palmer #3 of the Arizona Cardinals throws a pass against the San Diego Chargers during preseason at Qualcomm Stadium on August 19, 2016 in San Diego, California. (Photo by Stephen Dunn/Getty Images)
Oakland Raiders trade Carson Palmer to the Arizona Cardinals for a sixth-round pick
In April of 2013, the Arizona Cardinals pulled the trigger on a trade that would bring them their next franchise quarterback. At the time, Carson Palmer was coming off an outstanding statistical season with the Oakland Raiders. However, despite the fact he threw for over 4,000 yards, the team went 4-12, and wanted to go in another direction.
Palmer, who at the time was 33 years old, was traded to the Cardinals from the Raiders for a sixth-round draft pick. In addition to Palmer, the Cardinals also received Oakland’s seventh-round pick, making this an absolute steal.
Two years earlier, the Raiders gave the Cincinnati Bengals their 2012 first-round pick and their 2013 second round-pick in exchange for Palmer.
The Cardinals were looking for their first franchise quarterback since 2009, when Kurt Warner left the team after leading them to the Super Bowl. The organization got exactly that, as Palmer led Arizona to a 10-6 record in his first season. Palmer would play in only six games during the 2014 season due to injury, but he put together his best season as a pro in 2015.
During the 2015 season, Palmer was named a Second Team All-NFL selection, tossing for 4,671 yards and 35 touchdowns. He led the Cardinals back to the playoffs, though the team fell to the Carolina Panthers in the NFC Championship Game.
The Cardinals now head into the 2016 season with high hopes for a possible Super Bowl appearance, and all it took to get the man who could lead them there was a sixth-round pick.
ATLANTA, GA – SEPTEMBER 29: Tony Gonzalez #88 of the Atlanta Falcons scores a touchdown past Alfonzo Dennard #37 of the New England Patriots at Georgia Dome on September 29, 2013 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images)
Kansas City Chiefs trade Tony Gonzalez to the Atlanta Falcons for a second-round pick
Going into the 2009 season, the Atlanta Falcons were intent on making a serious run to the playoffs. In April of that year, the Falcons swung a deal with the Kansas City Chiefs to acquire the greatest tight end in NFL history. In exchange, Atlanta sent over their second-round pick in the 2010 NFL Draft.
By the time Tony Gonzalez landed in Atlanta, he had already been a Pro Bowler 10 times, a record for a tight end. The previous season, Gonzalez caught 96 balls for 1,069 yards, while scoring 10 touchdowns. Gonzalez already had the career record for tight ends in receptions, yards and touchdowns.
At 33 years old, it was safe to assume Gonzalez was declining. However, the Falcons had gone 11-5 with rookie quarterback Matt Ryan the year before, and were looking to add a dynamic pass catcher to their offense. Judging by his production, Gonzalez definitely wasn’t done.
In his five seasons in Atlanta, Gonzalez started every game, and was named to the Pro Bowl four times. In 2012, he was named First Team All-Pro, as he led the team to the playoffs for the third straight season. During his first four years with the team, the Falcons had a combined record of 45-19.
During the 2012 season, Gonzalez helped lead the Falcons to the NFC Championship Game, though they lost to the San Francisco 49ers in a heart-breaker. Still, Gonzalez’s contributions to the franchise during his five seasons with the team are unmatched, and he helped Matt Ryan develop into the quarterback he is today.
Not bad for a guy who was supposed to be finished.
NEW ORLEANS, LA – FEBRUARY 03: Anquan Boldin #81 of the Baltimore Ravens catches a 13-yard touchdown pass against the San Francisco 49ers during Super Bowl XLVII at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome on February 3, 2013 in New Orleans, Louisiana. The Ravens won 34-31. (Photo by Michael Zagaris/San Francisco 49ers/Getty Images)
Arizona Cardinals trade Anquan Boldin to the Baltimore Ravens for two draft picks
Anquan Boldin was heading into the final year of his contract prior to the 2010 season, and he had a history of injury problems. Although he was the No. 2 receiver for the Cardinals, behind Larry Fitzgerald, he had played in only one full season since 2003. He had also demanded a trade from the team in 2008, claiming the organization had lied to him about a new contract.
The Batimore Ravens were looking to bolster their receiving corps, who had only one 1,000-yard receiver the year before. In fact, running back Ray Rice led the team in receptions in 2009, so bringing on a playmaker like Boldin seemed like a no-brainer for the Ravens.
Boldin played in only three seasons with the Ravens, but they were very special ones. He proved to be very durable during his time in Baltimore, missing only three games. He helped lead the Ravens to three consecutive playoff appearances, including a berth in Super Bowl XLVII.
The Ravens faced the San Francisco 49ers in Super Bowl XLVII, and Boldin made his presence known right away. Boldin got the Ravens on the board first, catching a first quarter touchdown pass from Joe Flacco to give his team a 6-0 lead. Baltimore would go on to win the game 34-31, cementing Boldin’s legacy with the organization.
For the game, Boldin had six catches for 104 yards and a touchdown.
Baltimore traded Boldin to those same 49ers the following season, ending his tenure with the organization. Still, the trade they made with the Cardinals was a steal, and they now have a Super Bowl Trophy because of it.
PASADENA, CA – JANUARY 31: Linebacker Cornelius Bennett #97 of the Buffalo Bills battles against the Dallas Cowboys offense during Super Bowl XXVII at the Rose Bowl on January 31, 1993 in Pasadena, California. The Cowboys won 52-17. (Photo by George Rose/Getty Images)
Indianapolis Colts trade rights to Cornelius Bennett to the Buffalo Bills for Greg Bell and three draft picks
When people think of the 1997 “trade of the decade,” they think of Eric Dickerson heading to the Indianapolis Colts. However, for Buffalo Bills fans, it’s known as the trade that brought them Cornelius Bennett. At first a footnote in the trade, Bennett went on to anchor a Bills defense that went to four straight Super Bowls.
The deal was a three-team trade, which saw the Bills trade away their first round pick in 1988 as well as their first and second round pick in 1989. They also said goodbye to running back Greg Bell, but what they got in return helped turn their franchise around forever. Well, almost.
Bennett appeared in only eight games during his rookie season for the Bills, making seven starts. In his first full season in 1989, Bennett made his first Pro Bowl, while being named an All-Pro. He was a Pro-Bowler in five of his first six full seasons with the Bills, establishing himself as an all-time great in the organization.
By the time Bennett had finished his run in Buffalo, the former first-round pick had played eight incredible seasons for the Bills. He was a two-time AFC Defensive Player of the Year, a three-time All-Pro and went to five Pro Bowls.
Giving away three high picks was a gamble for the Bills, but it sure worked out for the best.
There’s no telling who the Bills would have taken with those three draft picks, but none of the men who were chosen — Gaston Green, Cleveland Gary and Daryl Henley — had anything close to the career Bennett did. The Bills definitely got the better of the deal.
CHARLOTTE, NC – JANUARY 24: Greg Olsen #88 of the Carolina Panthers celebrates after the NFC Championship Game against the Arizona Cardinals at Bank Of America Stadium on January 24, 2016 in Charlotte, North Carolina. (Photo by Scott Cunningham/Getty Images)
Chicago Bears trade Greg Olsen to the Carolina Panthers for a third-round pick
In 2011, Chicago Bears tight end Greg Olsen was entering the final year of his rookie contract. He had put together four decent years with the Bears, though nothing like the kind of production he would have in Carolina. Heading into the 2011 season, Bears Head Coach Lovie Smith said he wanted to get Olsen more involved in the offense, but he never got the chance.
The Bears traded Olsen to the Carolina Panthers in June of 2011, sending the tight end to Carolina for a third-round pick in the 2012 NFL Draft. Since then, the Bears have been looking for consistency out of the tight end position, while the Panthers have thrived.
Olsen appeared in all 16 games for the Panthers in his first season, making 13 starts. He was used as both a fullback and a tight end, and caught five touchdowns. The team went 6-10, but rookie quarterback Cam Newton made the Pro Bowl, and the team appeared ready to take off.
During the 2012 season, Olsen began to be an offensive star, setting career-highs in receptions (69) and yards (843). Two years later, Olsen made his first Pro Bowl, helping the Panthers make the NFC Championship Game. Though they lost, the stage was set for a big year in 2015.
The Panthers made it to the Promised Land in 2015, earning a spot in Super Bowl 50. Olsen made his second consecutive Pro Bowl appearance, and set career highs in yards (1,104) and touchdowns (7). The Panthers lost to the Denver Broncos in the Super Bowl, but Olsen and Company should be back in the mix again in 2016.
In five seasons with the Panthers, Olsen has established himself as one of the better tight ends in the NFL. Not a bad return for a third-round pick.
Hall of Fame linebacker Dick Butkus (51) of the Chicago Bears in action during the Bears 28-14 loss to the Detroit Lions on October 5, 1970 at Tiger Stadium in Detroit, Michigan. (Photo by George Gelatly/Getty Images) *** Local Caption ***
Pittsburgh Steelers trade third-pick in the 1965 NFL Draft to Chicago Bears
At the time, it was just a draft pick.
The Pittsburgh Steelers traded their third overall selection in the 1965 NFL Draft, giving Chicago the third and fourth selections in that draft. Head Coach George Halas wanted University of Illinois linebacker Dick Butkus, and he used that pick to select him third overall.
With the following pick, the Bears took Gale Sayers, an incredible running back from the University of Kansas. Those two players were the face of the Bears for the rest of the decade, and are still legends in the Windy City.
The trade was a year in the making, as the Bears sent their second and third round selections in the 1964 NFL Draft to Pittsburgh for the third selection in 1965. The Steelers would eventually draft running back Jim Kelly with the second round pick in 1964, and Ben McGee with the third round selection. Kelly only played one season with the Steelers, but McGee had a nice career, making two Pro Bowls.
Butkus went on to play nine seasons with the Bears, making the Pro Bowl eight times. He was a five-time First Team All-Pro, and is a member of the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Aside from all of those accolades, Butkus will mostly be remembered as the defining linebacker of his era. He was a dominating force on the defense, and changed the way the position was played.
Although Sayers and Butkus never played in a playoff game during their careers, the trade of picks that gave the Bears the opportunity to draft Butkus was one of the best deals ever pulled off.
PITTSBURGH – 1990: Running back James Brooks #21 of the Cincinnati Bengals runs against the Pittsburgh Steelers at Three Rivers Stadium circa 1990 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. (Photo by George Gojkovich/Getty Images)
Cincinnati Bengals trade Pete Johnson to the San Diego Chargers for James Brooks
Heading into the 1984 NFL season, the Cincinnati Bengals and San Diego Chargers had two disgruntled running backs on their hands.
For the Bengals, Pete Johnson had a been a great player, rushing for 64 touchdowns through his first seven seasons in Cincinnati. However, he began to get a big head, and threatened to play in the USFL if he wasn’t given a new contract.
In San Diego, James Brooks was a stud young running back, who led the NFL in all-purpose yards in 1981 and 1982. After the 1983 season, Brooks began to feel undervalued, as the Chargers were throwing a ton in their “Air Coryell” system.
By the time the 1984 season had kicked off, both players were in new cities, and the Bengals definitely got the best of the trade. Brooks was only 25 years old at the time, while Johnson was already 30. Johnson would play only two seasons with San Diego, while Brooks enjoyed a great eight-year run in Cincinnati.
For the Bengals, Brooks went to four Pro Bowls, while rushing for over 1,000 yards three times. In 1988, he helped the Bengals make it all the way to the Super Bowl, where they lost to the San Francisco 49ers and “The Drive.”
While Johnson was a nice player for the Bengals, he was a 30-year-old back with an attitude problem. Brooks found a home in Cincinnati, and helped the franchise reach the next level.
CLEVELAND – OCTOBER 12: Tight end Ozzie Newsome #82 of the Cleveland Browns catches a pass against linebacker Dino Hall #56 of the Kansas City Chiefs at Municipal Stadium on October 12, 1986 in Cleveland, Ohio. (Photo by George Gojkovich/Getty Images)
Los Angeles Rams trade 1978 first and fourth round picks to Cleveland Browns to move up three spots
It’s not often that moving up three spots can cost a franchise such an unbelievable player. However, that’s exactly what happened to the Los Angeles Rams, who traded two picks to the Cleveland Browns to move up three spots in the 1978 NFL Draft. The Rams selected Elvis Peacock with that pick, while the Browns grabbed Hall of Fame tight end Ozzie Newsome.
The selection of Peacock proved to be a bad one for the Rams, as the running back was out of the NFL three years later. In fact, he played only two season in Los Angeles, before finishing his career in Cincinnati. Newsome, on the other hand, went on to define the tight end position in Cleveland.
Newsome spent his entire 13-year NFL career in Cleveland, becoming a legend for the Browns, and eventually being immortalized in Canton. Newsome went 150 straight games with at least one reception in his career, while being named to three Pro Bowls.
During the 1983 and ’84 seasons, Newsome was a pass-catching machine. He caught 89 passes in each of those two seasons, which was unheard of for a tight end back then. His play helped the Browns become a perennial playoff team, though they never did win the Super Bowl.
The tale of Newsome is kind of bittersweet for Browns fans, as he eventually left with the team when they moved to Baltimore. At that time, Newsome was the director of pro personnel for the Browns, and owner Art Modell invited him to join the franchise in Baltimore. Now, Newsome is the General Manager and Executive VP for the Ravens, and is regarded as one of the best front office men in the game.
Still, his playing career for the Browns was something special, and the “Wizard of Oz” will always have a special place in the hearts of the fans.
PASADENA, CA – JANUARY 31: Emmitt Smith #22 of the Dallas Cowboys runs the ball during Super Bowl XXVII at Rose Bowl Stadium on January 31, 1993 in Pasadena, California. The Cowboys beat the Bills 52-17. (Photo by Rogers Photo Archive/Getty Images)
Minnesota Vikings trade five players and eight draft picks to the Dallas Cowboys for Herschel Walker
The trade is known as the “Great Trade Robbery.” In total, it included 18 players and draft picks. On October 12, 1989, just four games into the season, the Minnesota Vikings traded away their future for running back Herschel Walker. At the time, Walker was seen as the final piece in the Vikings Super Bowl puzzle, but it didn’t work out that way.
Walker played in parts of three seasons in Minnesota, rushing for 2,264 yards and 20 touchdowns.
In the book, Greatest Team Ever: The Dallas Cowboys Dynasty of the 1990s, author Norm Hitzges says that the idea of trading Walker came to Cowboys head coach Jimmy Johnson when he was on his morning run. While the trade wasn’t a piece in a Super Bowl puzzle for Minnesota, it certainly was for Dallas.
For the Cowboys, the trade was not about the players, but the draft picks. They traded the 1990 first round pick they got from Minnesota (21) and their 81st overall pick to the Pittsburgh Steelers to move up to 17. With that pick, they selected Florida running back Emmitt Smith, who would go on to become the NFL’s all-time rushing leader.
The following draft, they used some of the picks to trade up to the first overall selection, where they selected University of Miami defensive lineman Russell Maryland. In 1992, the Cowboys used the second round pick they got from the Vikings to draft Darren Woodson, who would go on to be one of the more dominant defensive backs of the 1990s.
This trade helped form the Dallas Cowboys dynasty that dominated the NFL during the early ’90s. The Cowboys won the Super Bowl in 1992, 1993 and 1995. The Vikings haven’t been in the big game since 1976.
MIAMI – Denver Broncos John Elway poses with the Vince Lombardi trophy on the podium after the Broncos defeated the Atlanta Falcons in Super Bowl XXXIII at Pro Player Stadium. (Photo By Craig F. Walker/The Denver Post via Getty Images)
Baltimore Colts trade John Elway to the Denver Broncos for Chris Hinton and a first round pick in the 1984 NFL Draft
John Elway was an incredible athlete, starring in both football and baseball at Stanford University. In fact, after the Baltimore Colts selected Elway with the first overall selection in the 1983 NFL Draft, he said he would never play for them and would instead go play baseball. He was right on one of those statements. He never did play for the Colts, but he didn’t go play baseball either.
Instead, Elway was traded to the Denver Broncos a week after the draft. In return, the Colts received the Broncos first round pick in 1983, Chris Hinton, as well as Denver’s first round pick in 1984. It was a small price to pay for Denver, who got to have Elway as their starting quarterback for the next 16 seasons.
A nine-time Pro Bowl selection, Elway is regarded as one of the top quarterbacks to ever play in the NFL, and led the Broncos to 10 playoff appearances. He made 21 starts as the Broncos quarterback in the playoffs, posting a 14-7 record, and led the Broncos to five Super Bowl appearances.
Unlike most superstars, Elway ended his career on a high note, winning back-to-back Super Bowls his final two seasons. He finished his career sixth in NFL history in passing yards (51,475), and his 300 touchdown passes are seventh-best.
Elway continues to be involved with the Broncos organization. He is currently the executive vice president of football operations, as well as the team’s general manager. He won his first Super Bowl as an executive in 2016, when his Broncos beat the Carolina Panthers in Super Bowl 50.
(Original Caption) The Detroit Lions of the National football League cut three players on September 7th, including veteran defensive back Dick (Night Train) Lane, shown in this 1964 file photo. Land had 13 years with the NFL, playing his last five with the Lions. The 37-year-old back holds the NFL record for the most interceptions in one season and ranks second for the most interceptions in his career with 68. The Lions, trimming their roster to 43, also cut rookie linebacker John Flynn, the former University of Oklahoma player and defensive back Dick Compton, who would have been in his fourth year of NFL play.
Chicago Cardinals trade Dick “Night Train” Lane to the Detroit Lions
Dick “Night Train” Lane was a terrifying presence in the defensive backfield. Most of the techniques he used during his Hall of Fame career would be considered illegal today, as he tried to inflict as much pain as possible. After showing up at Los Angeles Rams training camp in 1952 looking for a job, Lane eventually became one of the best defensive backs of all time.
After setting the single-season interceptions record as a rookie in 1952 (14), a record that still stands, Lane would play only one more season in Los Angeles. The Rams traded him to the Chicago Cardinals prior to the 1954 season, and he would go on to be named to four Pro Bowls during his six seasons in Chicago.
Already an All-Pro player, Lane would be traded to the Detroit Lions before the 1960 season, and quickly became the best player on the Lions defense.
In his six seasons in Detroit, Lane snatched 21 interceptions, while being named to the Pro Bowl three times. He was a four-time First Team All-Pro for the Lions, and was honored as the best defensive back of the first 50 years of professional football. His trademark “Night Train Necktie” tackle is outlawed today, but the tenacity that he played with has not been lost on the fans.
Lane is a member of the NFL 75th Anniversary Team, the NFL 1950s All-Decade Team, and in 1974, he was enshrined in the Pro Football Hall of Fame. His most productive years came in the Motor City, and had it not been for a trade in 1960, Lions fans would not have this legend to honor.
NEW ORLEANS – JANUARY 26: Quarterback Brett Favre #4 of the Green Bay Packers celebrates his first quarter touchdown pass to wide receiver Andre Rison #26 in Super Bowl XXXI against the New England Patriots at the Louisiana Superdome on January 26, 1997 in New Orleans, Louisiana. The Packers won 35-21. (Photo by Andy Hayt/Getty Images)
Atlanta Falcons trade Brett Favre to the Green Bay Packers for a first-round draft pick
Prior to the 1992 NFL Draft, the Green Bay Packers were sitting on two first-round draft picks. The Packers had a new General Manager in Ron Wolf, and he figured Brett Favre was better than any unknown they could have gotten with the 17th overall pick. He swung a deal with the Atlanta Falcons, who had Favre at number three on their depth chart, and the rest is history.
The Packers had Don Majkowski as their starting quarterback, and he actually led the NFL in passing yardage in 1989. However, injuries during the 1992 season allowed Favre to get some playing time early in the season, and he eventually took over. Favre led the team to an 8-5 record in his starts, earning his first Pro Bowl selection.
Not bad for a guy who was slated to be the third quarterback on a Falcons team with Chris Miller and Billy Joe Tolliver.
Favre would go on to spend 16 seasons as the Packers signal-caller, putting together arguably the best statistical career of any quarterback in history. He went to nine Pro Bowls during his time in Green Bay, including his final season with the team, when he led them to a 13-3 record. He would eventually move on to the New York Jets, and then to the hated Minnesota Vikings, but he will be remembered for his time in Green Bay.
The highlight of his career was the 1996 season, when he led the Packers to a 13-3 record, and eventually to the Super Bowl. The 27-year old led the NFL in touchdown passes that season, and was a First Team All-Pro. In Super Bowl XXXI, Favre led the Packers to a 35-21 victory over the New England Patriots, throwing for 246 yards and two touchdowns.
In 2016, Favre was elected to the Pro Football Hall of Fame, the culmination of an incredible NFL career. Good thing for the Packers they hired Ron Wolf as their General Manager back in 1992.
NASHVILLE, TN – OCTOBER 26: Chris Myers #55 of the Houston Texans signals at the line of scrimmage during a game against the Tennessee Titans at LP Field on October 26, 2014 in Nashville, Tennessee. The Texans defeated the Titans 30-16. (Photo by Wesley Hitt/Getty Images)
Denver Broncos trade Chris Myers to the Houston Texans for a sixth-round draft pick
Aside from their first ever first-round draft selection, the Houston Texans have drafted well during their 14-year existence. In 2002, the organization drafted David Carr with the first overall pick, though his career didn’t turn out as hoped. A terrible offensive line meant he was hit on what seemed like every play, limiting his ability to ever reach his potential.
In 2008, the organization made a trade for a center, and it certainly worked out well for them. In exchange for center Chris Myers, the Texans only had to give up a sixth-round pick, which was more than worth it. Myers was the centerpiece of their offensive line for seven seasons, and didn’t miss a single start.
During his time as the Texans center, Myers helped running back Arian Foster become one of the best backs in the NFL, while protecting Matt Schaub at quarterback. The Texans became a playoff team during Myers’ time with the organization, helping them to two Wild Card Game victories.
Myers was released prior to the 2015 season, as the Texans were looking to clear some cap room. He was slated to make $6 million dollars that season, and has not played in the NFL since being released.
The Broncos ended up drafting Spencer Larsen with the pick they got for Myers, making the trade even more lopsided for Houston. Myers went to two Pro Bowls during his time in Houston, and in 2011, Pro Football Focus named him to their First Team All-NFL squad.
2 Dec 1990: Running back Eric Dickerson of the Indianapolis Colts runs with the ball during a game against the Phoenix Cardinals at the RCA Dome in Indianapolis, Indiana. The Cardinals won the game, 20-17. Mandatory Credit: Stephen Dunn /Allsport
Los Angeles Rams trade Eric Dickerson to the Indianapolis Colts in three-team deal
At the time, the trade was billed as the “Trade of the Century,” as the Los Angeles Rams traded away their star running back during the 1992 season. Eric Dickerson was by far one of the best running backs in the NFL during his four-plus seasons in Los Angeles, setting NFL records along the way. He continued to be productive with the Colts, rushing for over 5,000 yards in his five seasons with the team.
In 1983, Dickerson burst onto the scene by rushing for 1,808 yards as a 23-year-old rookie. The following season, Dickerson set the single-season record for rushing yards (2,105), a record that still stands today. He was so dominant during his years in Los Angeles that he was a global superstar.
When the Rams decided to trade Dickerson as part of a monster three-team deal, they got six draft picks and two players in return. Dickerson was unhappy with his contract during his time with the Rams, and wanted out of L.A. He got his wish, and was activated immediately after signing a new deal with the Colts.
Dickerson made an immediate impact, rushing for 1,011 yards in only nine games with the Colts in 1987. His play helped lead the Colts to a late season rally, as the organization made the playoffs for the first time in 10 seasons.
The following season, his first full year in Indianapolis, Dickerson led the NFL in rushing, while scoring 14 touchdowns. He was named to the Pro Bowl, and was a First Team All-Pro.
In 1989, Dickerson was once again named to the Pro Bowl, after rushing for 1,311 yards and seven touchdowns. It would be the last year he was named to the Pro Bowl, as the following season he turned 30 and lost a step. He would play one more season in Indianapolis before being traded back to Los Angeles to play for the Raiders.
Jacksonville Jaguars quarterback Mark Brunell (8) tosses a pass during a 24-15 loss to the Seattle Seahawks on October 7, 2001, at Husky Stadium in Seattle, Washington. (Photo by Tami Tomsic/Getty Images)
Green Bay Packers trade Mark Brunell to the Jacksonville Jaguars for two draft picks
The Jacksonville Jaguars played their first season in 1995, and on the eve of their first NFL Draft, they made a deal for a quarterback. In April of 1995, the Jaguars traded two draft picks to the Green Bay Packers for Mark Brunell, who had spent the 1994 season as Brett Favre’s backup.
During the expansion draft, the Jaguars selected Steve Beuerlein, who was slated to be the team’s starting quarterback for the 1995 season. However, Brunell quickly grabbed the starting job from Beuerlein, and started 10 games during the season.
In 1996, Brunell was the main guy going into the season, and started all 16 games for the Jaguars. He would be named to his first Pro Bowl after leading the NFL in passing yards with 4,367. His play allowed two receivers, Keenan McCardell and Jimmy Smith, to go over 1,000 yards, as Jacksonville made their first playoff appearance.
The Jaguars lost in the AFC Championship Game to the New England Patriots, but Brunell had cemented his legacy in Jacksonville.
Including the 1996 season, Brunell led the Jaguars to four straight playoff appearances, which was unheard of for an expansion team. During his time in Jacksonville, Brunell was named to three Pro Bowls, and finished as the Jaguars leader in many categories.
Brunell is the Jacksonville Jaguars all-time leader in wins, passing yards, completions and passing touchdowns, making him the most decorated passer in franchise history. Pretty nice pick up for the young Jaguars back in 1995.
8 Sep 1996: Defensive lineman Neil Smith of the Kansas City Chiefs in action during the Chiefs 19-3 victory over the Oakland Raiders at Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas City, Missouri. Mandatory Credit: Stephen Dunn /Allsport
Detroit Lions trade second overall pick to the Kansas City Chiefs for two draft picks
The trade made between the Detroit Lions and Kansas City Chiefs during the 1988 NFL Draft can be seen as a winner for both teams. The Lions traded the second-overall pick in the draft to the Chiefs, who gave them the number three pick and a second round pick. The Lions got Bennie Blades and Chris Spielman with those picks, while the Chiefs got a legend in Neil Smith.
During the 1990s, Smith teamed up with Hall of Fame linebacker Derrick Thomas to form arguably the best defense of the decade. The two became one of the most feared pass-rushing duos in NFL history, as they terrorized the AFC for eight seasons together. Eventually Smith would move on to Denver, but his time in Kansas City was remarkable.
An All-American at the University of Nebraska, Smith was regarded as the best defensive player in the 1988 draft. The Chiefs wanted him badly, so they made the move they felt they needed to in order to make sure they got him.
From 1990-96, he and Thomas led the Chiefs to a franchise-record six straight playoff appearances. Smith had double-digit sacks in four-straight seasons, and finished his Chiefs career with 86.5 sacks.
Smith is a member of the Kansas City Chiefs Hall of Fame, and while Blades and Spielman had nice careers, the impact Smith had in Kansas City goes way beyond his numbers. He is a legend in Kansas City, and was well worth the two draft picks.
St. Louis Rams running back Marshall Faulk rushes upfield against the Indianapolis Colts, October 17, 2005 in Indianapolis. The Colts defeated the Rams 45 – 28 in a Monday Night Football game. (Photo by Al Messerschmidt/Getty Images)
Indianapolis Colts trade Marshall Faulk to the St. Louis Rams for two draft picks
Marshall Faulk wanted to renegotiate his contract heading into the 1999 season, after he dominated the NFL in 1998. He was a do-everything back for the Indianapolis Colts, and in 1998, he had his breakout season. Faulk ran for over 1,300 yards, caught 86 passes and scored 10 touchdowns.
The Rams had the third pick in the 1999 NFL Draft, and the Colts saw an opportunity to trade Faulk and pick up a running back in the draft. The 1999 draft class had University Texas star Ricky Williams and University of Miami star Edgerrin James in it, and two quarterbacks were supposed to go first and second. The trade was made, and the Colts got a new franchise running back in James, passing up the Heisman Trophy winner in Williams.
James had a very nice career in Indianapolis, making a few Pro Bowls, but it was nothing compared to what Faulk did in St. Louis. As the main cog in the “Greatest Show on Turf,” Faulk became a Hall of Fame running back, helping lead the Rams to a victory in Super Bowl XXXIV.
Throughout his seven years in St. Louis, Faulk was elected to five Pro Bowls, while being named a First Team All-Pro three times. He was named the NFL MVP in both 2000 and 2001, and was the NFL Offensive Player of the Year from 1999-2001.
The legacy he left in Rams history will live on forever, as the organization retired his No.28 jersey. Although the team is no longer in St. Louis, trading for Marshall Faulk has to go down as the greatest trade in team history.
Miami Dolphins Hall of Fame wide receiver Paul Warfield heads upfield with a reception in a 28-21 win over the San Diego Chargers on Septermber 29, 1974 at Jack Murphy Stadium in San Diego, California. (Photo by James Flores/Getty Images)
Cleveland Browns trade Paul Warfield to the Miami Dolphins for a first-round draft pick
The Miami Dolphins dominated the NFL during the early 1970s, winning back-to-back Super Bowls in 1972 and 1973. A big reason for their success was a trade they made prior to the 1970 NFL Draft. The Dolphins traded their third overall selection to the Cleveland Browns for wide receiver Paul Warfield, who went on to to become the best receiver in team history.
With the third pick, the Browns selected All-American quarterback Mike Phipps, who was viewed as a can’t-miss prospect out of Purdue University. Phipps career fizzled while Warfield went on to five Pro Bowls during his five seasons in Miami.
Prior to going to the Dolphins, Warfield played six seasons in Cleveland. During his last two seasons with the Browns, Warfield was named to the Pro Bowl, and was considered one of the top receivers in the game at the time of the trade. He would take his game to another level with the Dolphins, becoming a Hall of Fame player.
Not only was he a five-time Pro Bowler during his time with Miami, but he was also named a First Team All-Pro twice. He was the leading receiver on the 1972 squad that went undefeated, which to this day is the only team to accomplish the feat.
In 1983, Warfield was enshrined in the Pro Football Hall of Fame. He was ranked as the 60th best player in NFL history by The Sporting News, and is a member of the NFL’s 1970 All-Decade Team.
The trade is considered one of the most lopsided in NFL history.
PASADENA, CA- JANUARY 9: Jim Marshall #70 of the Minnesota Vikings looks on from the bench against the Oakland Raiders during Super Bowl XI on January 9, 1977 at the Rose Bowl in Pasadena, California. The Raiders won the Super Bowl 32 -14. (Photo by Focus on Sport/Getty Images)
Cleveland Browns trade Jim Marshall and five other players to the Minnesota Vikings for two draft picks
Jim Marshall played 20 seasons in the NFL. For 19 of those seasons, he was a member of the Minnesota Vikings. During his rookie year, Marshall played for the Cleveland Browns, who traded him and five other players to the Vikings for two draft picks in the 1961 NFL Draft. Marshall would go on to become a legend in Minnesota, as he was a key member of the famed “Purple People Eaters.”
The laundry list of accomplishments he had in Minnesota is very long. From 1961 to 1979, Marshall played in a then-record 282 consecutive games. During his entire career with the Vikings, Marshall started 270 straight games, a record that was only broken by quarterback Brett Favre in 2010.
A two-time Pro Bowler, Marshall was a member of the Vikings 1969 NFL Championship. As a member of the “Purple People Eaters,” he teamed with Alan Page, Carl Ellers and Gary Larsen to form one of the most feared defensive units in the history of the NFL. Marshall was credited with 127 sacks during his Vikings career, and is one of the most beloved players in team history.
Incredibly, Marshall is not a member of the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Despite a storied career, Marshall has only been a finalist for enshrinement once, in 2004. He has been honored numerous times by the Vikings, and is considered one of the best players in team history.
Marshall is a member of the Minnesota Vikings Ring of Honor, and his No. 70 jersey has been retired by the organization. He was just a small part of a huge trade, but ended up being a huge part of the history of the Vikings.
BOSTON – FEBRUARY 4: Coach Bill Belichick held the Lombardi Trophy aloft as the Super Bowl victory parade made its way up Boylston Street in Boston on February 4, 2015. (Photo by Wendy Maeda/The Boston Globe via Getty Images)
New York Jets trade Bill Belichick and two draft picks to the New England Patriots for three draft pick
Is it possible the greatest trade in the history of the NFL was for a head coach? That may be the case, as Bill Belichick became the best thing ever to happen to the New England Patriots. Four Super Bowl wins later, Belichick is a legend in New England, while the New York Jets continue to try for their first appearance in the big game since 1968.
After an 8-8 season in 1999, then Jets head coach Bill Parcells stepped down, and made sure that Belichick would succeed him. Belichick did succeed Parcells, but not for long. He turned his announcement in front of the media into a surprise resignation. He scribbled “I resign as HC of the NYJ” on a piece of paper, before announcing his resignation to the media.
Once he resigned, Belichick was announced as the new head coach of the New England Patriots. The Jets claimed he was still under contract and demanded compensation. Paul Tagliabue, the former NFL Commissioner, agreed, and the Patriots sent three picks over to the Jets for Belichick and two draft picks.
During Belichick’s first season at the helm of the Patriots, the team went 5-11, his only losing season with the team. Tom Brady supplanted Drew Bledsoe as the team’s starting quarterback due to injury the following season, and the rest is history. The team went on to win four Super Bowls, appear in six, and has finished first in the AFC East in 13 of Belichick’s 16 seasons as head coach.
Over the course of his coaching career with the Patriots, Belichick has been named the NFL Coach of the Year three times, and has established himself as the greatest head coach in NFL history.
CHARLOTTE, NC – OCTOBER 09: Jonathan Vilma #51 of the New Orleans Saints tackles Cam Newton #1 of the Carolina Panthers during their game at Bank of America Stadium on October 9, 2011 in Charlotte, North Carolina. (Photo by Streeter Lecka/Getty Images)
New York Jets trade Jonathan Vilma to the New Orleans Saints for two draft picks
The New York Jets drafted Jonathan Vilma with the 12th overall selection in the 2004 NFL Draft. From his rookie season on, Vilma was a dominant force on the Jets defense, winning the 2004 NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year. He appeared in all 16 games for the Jets during his first three seasons, but suffered a season-ending knee injury in Week 7 in 2007.
That would be the last game Vilma ever played for New York, as he was traded the following offseason to the New Orleans Saints. At the time, Jets head coach Eric Mangini wanted to start Eric Barton and David Harris, making Vilma the odd-man out. The Saints were happy to take him, as he became a cornerstone on their defense.
During the 2008 season, his first in New Orleans, Vilma was the best player on a very bad defense. Prior to the 2009 season, the Saints locked Vilma up with a five-year deal, making him their defensive captain. It turned out to be a great investment, as Vilma would make the Pro Bowl the next two seasons.
In 2009, the Saints were the darling of the NFL, making it all the way to the Super Bowl. The team defeated a Peyton Manning-led Indianapolis Colts team, as Vilma made a key deflection on third down late in the fourth quarter. For the season, Vilma led the team in tackles, while collecting three interceptions.
Vilma made the Pro Bowl the next season, his last selection, leading the team in tackles once again. Knee injuries forced him to retire during the 2013 season, but his place in Saints history is secure. He helped a city become Super Bowl Champions, while playing with the kind of passion Saints fans expect.
INDIANAPOLIS, IN – FEBRUARY 5: Eli Manning #10 of the New York Giants passes against the New England Patriots during Super Bowl XLVI at Lucas Oil Stadium on February 5, 2012 in Indianapolis, Indiana. The Giants defeated the Patriots 21-17. (Photo by Larry French/Getty Images)
San Diego Chargers trade Eli Manning to the New York Giants for Philip Rivers and two draft picks
Eli Manning had an incredible career at Ole Miss. Playing at the same college as his father, Manning rewrote the record books. When it came time for the 2004 NFL Draft, the San Diego Chargers had the top pick, and planned to use it on Manning. However, Manning said he would refuse to play if drafted by San Diego. They drafted him anyway.
The New York Giants had the fourth overall pick, and selected North Carolina State quarterback Philip Rivers. The teams then swapped the quarterbacks, with the Giants also sending San Diego two more draft picks. Those picks ended up being Shawn Merriman and Nate Kaeding, two players who would have solid careers with the Chargers.
History would show that the Giants got the better of the deal, as Manning has led the franchise to two Super Bowl wins. Rivers has been a prolific passer for San Diego, but has never made it to the big game. Manning, on the other hand, has two Super Bowl MVP awards, and has gone to four Pro Bowls.
Since becoming the full-time starter mid-way through the 2004 season, Manning has not missed a start. He has led the Giants to nearly 100 wins as the team’s starter, and has thrown for over 44,000 yards. He has thrown for over 4,000 yards in a season five times, and is an incredible 8-3 as a starter in the playoffs.
Rivers has had a great career, and may one day be in Canton. For the Giants, Eli Manning has been the franchise quarterback for over a decade, and has delivered the only hardware that counts.
He is the third in an incredible quarterback legacy, as father Archie Manning and big brother Peyton both had outstanding NFL careers. If Eli can get one more Super Bowl win, the younger Manning will boast the most championships of them all.
MIAMI – JANUARY 12: Quarterback Joe Namath #12 of the New York Jets calls the signals at the line of scrimmage during Super Bowl III on January 12, 1969 against the Baltimore Colts at the Orange Bowl in Miami, Florida. (Photo by Kidwiler Collection/Diamond Images/Getty Images)
Houston Oilers trade first round draft pick to New York Jets for Jerry Rhome
On Nov. 29, 1964, the New York Jets traded the rights to quarterback Jerry Rhome to the Houston Oilers for a first-round draft pick. With that pick, the Jets selected a strong-armed quarterback out of the University of Alabama named Joe Namath. Namath would go on to become a legend in New York, helping the Jets to an improbable Super Bowl win along the way.
Namath battled knee injuries throughout his career, after hurting himself in the fourth game of his senior year at Alabama. Still, Namath limped through a perfect regular season for the Crimson Tide, winning a National Championship in the Orange Bowl. He was selected in the first round of both the AFL and NFL drafts.
The Jets, who were in the AFL at the time, took Namath with the first overall selection, a pick they got from the Houston Oilers in a trade. When he led the Jets to the Super Bowl in 1968, not many people gave them a chance against the NFL’s Baltimore Colts. The NFL was considered the stronger league, and had won the first two Super Bowls.
Prior to the game, Namath guaranteed the Jets would win the game, which would eventually become his claim to fame. The Jets did win, 13-7, and despite a pretty pedestrian game, their quarterback was named the game’s MVP.
Throughout his career, Namath put up stats that normally would not put a player in the Hall of Fame. He completed only 50.1 percent of his passes, threw for more interceptions than touchdowns, and had a losing record as a starter.
Still, his win in Super Bowl III helped the merger of the two leagues, and brought legitimacy to the AFL. He still is the only quarterback to lead the Jets to a Super Bowl victory, and will forever be the face of the franchise.
LOS ANGELES, CA – CIRCA 1980”s: Cornerback Mike Haynes #22 of the Los Angeles Raiders in action circa mid 1980’s during an NFL football game at the Los Angeles Coliseum in Los Angeles, California. Haynes played for the Raiders from 1983-89. (Photo by Focus on Sport/Getty Images)
New England Patriots trade Michael Haynes to the Los Angeles Raiders for two draft picks
This trade is regarded as one of the best in NFL history. During the 1983 season, Michael Haynes was traded by the New England Patriots to the Los Angeles Raiders. The Patriots were given two draft picks, a first-rounder in 1984 and a second-rounder in 1985. The Raiders got the missing piece to their Super Bowl puzzle.
Haynes played only the last five regular season games with the Raiders that season, but he was in the starting lineup in Super Bowl XVIII. Los Angeles beat the Washington Redskins in the game, and Haynes had an interception.
During his time with the Raiders, Haynes combined with Lester Hayes to form the best cornerback duo in the history of the NFL.
His career in the Silver and Black lasted seven season. During that time, Haynes had 18 interceptions, and is regarded as arguably the best cornerback in the history of the league. He was an All-Pro in his first two seasons with the Raiders, while going to three Pro Bowls.
Adding Hayes to the roster gave the Raiders their last Super Bowl win. Trading away two draft picks was well worth the price of another ring.
He is a member of the NFL 75th Anniversary Team, and was named to the NFL 1980s All-Decade Team. Eight years after his retirement, Haynes would be immortalized in the Pro Football Hall of Fame.
CHICAGO, IL – CIRCA 1984: Quarterback Ron Jaworski #7 of the Philadelphia Eagles throws a pass against the Chicago Bears circa 1984 during an NFL football game at Soldier Field in Chicago, Illinois.. Jaworski played for the Eagles from 1977-86. (Photo by Focus on Sport/Getty Images)
Los Angeles Rams trade Charles Young to the Philadelphia Eagles for Ron Jaworski
In 1973, the Los Angeles Rams drafted Ron Jaworski in the second round. Originally, Jaworski was supposed to be a third-stringer, but injuries forced him into the starting lineup in 1975. After leading the Rams to a playoff win, he lost the starting job to Pat Haden, making him expendable to the franchise.
During the spring of 1977, Jaworski was traded to the Philadelphia Eagles for All-Pro tight end Charles Young. The Eagles had a young head coach in Dick Vermeil, and he immediately inserted Jaworski as his starting quarterback. They went through some bumps together, but Vermeil stuck by the young signal-caller.
The franchise took off, making it to the playoffs in both 1978 and 1979. Despite early exits, they were building towards something special, and in 1980, they made a run. The Eagles defeated the Minnesota Vikings and Dallas Cowboys en route to the franchise’s first Super Bowl appearance.
Philadelphia would lose to the Oakland Raiders in Super Bowl XV, but the run made Jaworski a legend in the City of Brotherly Love. He was named NFC Player of the Year in 1980, and would go on to be the team’s starter for the next four years.
In 1985, Jaworski’s run as the team’s starting quarterback came to an end, as injuries and inconsistent play forced the team to turn to Randall Cunningham. Cunningham would end up having a great Eagles career of his own, but Jaws has a special place in the hearts of Eagles fans.
The Polish Rifle will forever be linked with Philadelphia, and in 1992, he was inducted into the Philadelphia Eagles Hall of Fame.
DETROIT – FEBRUARY 05: Running back Jerome Bettis #36 of the Pittsburgh Steelers celebrates on the field after defeating the Seattle Seahawks in Super Bowl XL at Ford Field on February 5, 2006 in Detroit, Michigan. Bettis announced his retirement after the Steelers defeated the Seahawks 21-10. (Photo by Harry How/Getty Images)
St. Louis Rams trade Jerome Bettis and a draft pick to the Pittsburgh Steelers for two draft picks
When the Los Angeles Rams moved to St. Louis, new head coach Rich Brooks wanted to throw the ball more, making star running back Jerome Bettis expendable. The Pittsburgh Steelers, who had a history of ground and pound football, gladly took the big back from Notre Dame.
The trade came about in April of 1996, as the Steelers’ troubled running back Bam Morris could not lay off the drugs. He was eventually tossed off the team in June of 1996, clearing the way for Bettis to be the featured running back. He would go on to become one of the best running backs in franchise history, capping his career off with a Super Bowl win.
In five of his first six seasons in Pittsburgh, Bettis ran for 1,000 yards. He was named to four Pro Bowls during his time with the Steelers, and in his first season with the team, was named NFL Comeback Player of the Year.
By the time his career was over, Bettis was fifth all-time in NFL history in rushing yards (13,662), and his 91 touchdowns were the 11th best. He is currently sixth all-time in rushing, having been passed by LaDainian Tomlinson.
In January of 2015, Bettis was elected to the Pro Football Hall of Fame. It was the final stop for “The Bus,” whose big smile and punishing runs captivated fans all across the country. He is still very much active in Pittsburgh, keeping a home there, and hosting The Jerome Bettis Show at Heinz Field.
Not a bad deal for a couple of draft picks.
SAN DIEGO, CA – OCTOBER 4: Charlie Joiner #18 of the San Diego Chargers catches a pass against the Seattle Seahawks during an NFL football game October 4, 1981 at Jack Murphy Stadium in San Diego, California. Joiner played for the Chargers from 1976-86. (Photo by Focus on Sport/Getty Images)
Cincinnati Bengals trade Charlie Joiner to the San Diego Chargers for Coy Bacon
There are few players in NFL history that were as perfect for their team as Charlie Joiner was for the San Diego Chargers. San Diego got Joiner from the Cincinnati Bengals for Coy Bacon, which in hindsight was highway robbery. Joiner became a Hall of Fame player for the Lightning Bolts, while Bacon spent only two season with the Bengals.
With San Diego, Joiner teamed with rocket-armed quarterback Dan Fouts. The Chargers ran an offense that came to be known as “Air Coryell,” and Joiner was the main recipient of all those throws. He had over 1,000 yards receiving in four straight seasons, while making the Pro Bowl three times.
In total, Joiner spent 11 years with the Chargers as a player, racking up over 9,200 yards. He would eventually come back to San Diego as a coach, spending two four-year stints with the organization. He is an all-time great for the Chargers, and has been honored by the team on many occasions.
Joiner is a member of the San Diego Chargers Hall of Fame, and was named to both the 40th and 50th Anniversary Teams.
There is no way of telling where his career may have gone if he had stayed in Cincinnati. The Chargers teams that he played for helped revolutionize the game, focusing more on passing than running.
Coy Bacon went on to play in two Pro Bowls during his only seasons in Cincinnati, but the mark Joiner made not only the Chargers, but also the city of San Diego, makes this trade a slam dunk.
SAN FRANCISCO, CA – CIRCA 1993: Wide Receiver Jerry Rice #80 of the San Francisco 49ers runs up field after a reception during an NFL football game circa 1993 at Candlestick Park in San Francisco, California. Rice played for the 49ers from 1985-2000. (Photo by Focus on Sport/Getty Images)
New England Patriots trade 16th overall pick to the San Francisco 49ers for two draft picks
The 1985 NFL Draft contained the best player in the history of the game. But only the San Francisco 49ers wanted him badly enough to move up to get him. Fearing the Dallas Cowboys would take him with the 17th pick, San Francisco traded two picks to the New England Patriots for pick 16.
With that pick, the 49ers selected a wide receiver from a small college called Mississippi Valley State. That wide receiver was Jerry Rice, who would go on to rewrite the NFL record books. The Patriots got Trevor Matich and Ben Thomas with those two picks, so this trade is the most lopsided in NFL history.
Rice burst onto the scene as a rookie in San Francisco, posting a 10-catch, 241 yard performance against the Los Angeles Rams. He would go on to be named the NFC Rookie of the Year in 1985, the first of many awards he won in his career.
Teaming with quarterbacks Joe Montana and Steve Young, Rice won three Super Bowls as a member of the 49ers. In Super Bowl XXIII against the Cincinnati Bengals, Rice caught 11 balls for 215 yards, scoring one touchdown. For his efforts, he was named the MVP of the game.
During his career, Rice was a 13-time Pro Bowler, a 10-time All-Pro and the NFL MVP in 1987.
By the time Rice retired, he owned the NFL record for receptions, receiving yards and touchdowns. All three of those records are pretty much untouchable.
DENVER, CO – CIRCA 1980’s: Wide Receiver Steve Largent #80 of the Seattle Seahawks in action runs away from linebacker Rob Nairne #58 of the Denver Broncos during an NFL football game circa 1980’s at Mile High Stadium in Denver, Colorado. Largent played for the Seahawks from 1976-89. (Photo by Focus on Sport/Getty Images)
Houston Oilers trade Steve Largent to the Seattle Seahawks for an eighth-round pick
Steve Largent was drafted by the Houston Oilers in the fourth round of the 1976 NFL Draft. Despite being an All-American at the University of Tulsa, Largent was not seen as a big-time NFL prospect. He was traded to the expansion Seattle Seahawks after four preseason games, and would go on to become the best player to ever don a Seahawks jersey.
A member of the Pro Football Hall of Fame, Largent played 14 seasons with the Seahawks. When he retired, he held all major NFL records for receivers, including yards (13,089), receptions (819), and touchdowns (100). Those records would all eventually be broken, but his legacy in Seattle stands the test of time.
To say the Oilers made a mistake would be an understatement. Largent, though not very fast, had some of the best hands in NFL history. He was named to seven Pro Bowl teams, led the NFL in receiving yards twice and was a first-team All-Pro three times.
Largent consistently showed how great of a person he was during his career. He was a Walter Payton Man of Year Award winner, and showed respect for the greatest player in history when he came to Seattle. When Jerry Rice came to the Seahawks at the end of his career, Largent allowed him to wear his uniform No. 80, which had been retired.
Largent is also on the Seattle Seahawks Ring of Honor, and was named to the NFL 1980s All-Decade Team.
Trading an eighth-round pick for Largent was definitely the greatest trade in Seattle Seahawks history.
TAMPA, FL – DECEMBER 20: Tampa Bay Buccaneers defensive lineman Warren Sapp and linebacker Derrick Brooks during a 30 to 28 loss to the Atlanta Falcons on 12/20/2003 at Raymond James Stadium in Tampa. (Photo by Joe Robbins/Getty Images)
Tampa Bay Buccaneers trade draft picks to select two Hall of Famers in 1995 NFL Draft
Talk about wheeling and dealing. The Tampa Bay Buccaneers came into the 1995 NFL Draft with the seventh overall pick. They liked Warren Sapp with that pick, and figured they could trade down and still nab him. They were right, and sent the seventh pick and the 73rd selection to the Philadelphia Eagles for pick No. 12 and two second rounders, picks 43 and 63.
As the draft continued, the Buccaneers had their eyes set on Derrick Brooks, a hard-hitting linebacker out of Florida State. Tampa Bay then took the 63rd pick they received from Philadelphia and their own second-round selection and gave them to the Dallas Cowboys for pick No. 28. With that pick, they were able to grab Brooks, who became one of the cornerstones of their defense for years to come.
Sapp and Brooks transformed the franchise, turning Tampa Bay from a perennial loser to an eventual Super Bowl contender. The Bucs made it to the Super Bowl in 2002, facing the Oakland Raiders. Tampa Bay won it all, destroying the Raiders by a score of 48-21.
Sapp and Brooks both had Hall of Fame careers in the NFL. Sapp was elected to the Hall in 2013, with Brooks following him the next season. The two men helped the Bucs have one of the toughest defenses in the NFL throughout the late 1990s and early 2000s, and may be the best tandem ever drafted by one team in NFL history.
The Buccaneers went into the 1995 NFL Draft with only two picks in the first two rounds, and they left with two Hall of Famers.
Football: AFC Playoffs: Houston Oilers Earl Campbell (34) in action, rushing vs Pittsburgh Steelers. Pittsburgh, PA 1/6/1980 CREDIT: Heinz Kluetmeier (Photo by Heinz Kluetmeier /Sports Illustrated/Getty Images) (Set Number: X24092 TK1 R2 F14 )
Tampa Bay Buccaneers trade 1978 first overall pick to the Houston Oilers for four draft picks and TE Jimmie Giles
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers had the first overall selection in the 1978 NFL Draft, and the Houston Oilers wanted it. The Oilers wanted University of Texas running back Earl Campbell, and were willing to do whatever the could to get him. In the end, they traded their own 1978 first round pick, their second round pick, two picks in the 1979 NFL Draft and tight end Jimmie Giles — but they got their man.
While Tampa Bay was able to draft Doug Williams with the first round pick they got from the Oilers, Houston one of the best running backs in the history of the NFL.
Earl Campbell was a punishing runner, who rushed for over 8,500 yards during his six-plus seasons with the Oilers. He had the ability to make people miss, run over people and run away from defenses, making him the complete package at the running back position.
From day one, Campbell was the best in the NFL. He led the NFL in rushing in each of his first three seasons, while leading the league in touchdowns twice. Within that time, he was named NFL MVP all three years, and was the NFL Offensive Player of the Year.
During his Houston career, Campbell was named to five Pro Bowls, and was a First-Team All-Pro three times. The franchise retired his No. 34 jersey, and he is considered the best player in the history of the organization. In 1991, Campbell was inducted to the Pro Football Hall of Fame.
The Houston Oilers are now the Tennessee Titans, but no matter what changes happen within the franchise, trading for the number one pick to get Campbell was the greatest trade they ever made.
WASHINGTON, D.C. – CIRCA 1960’s: Quarterback Sonny Jurgensen #9 of the Washington Redskins rolls out to pass during a circa late 1960’s NFL football game at RFK stadium in Washington, D.C.. Jurgenson played for the Redskins from 1964-74. (Photo by Focus on Sport/Getty Images)
Philadelphia Eagles trade Sonny Jurgensen to the Washington Redskins for Norm Snead and Claude Crabb
When Norm Van Brocklin retired prior to the 1961 season, a young quarterback named Sonny Jurgensen took the reigns of the Philadelphia Eagles franchise. In his first year under center, Jurgensen set an NFL record by throwing for 3,723 yards, while tying the record for most touchdown passes in a single-season with 32.
Jurgensen led the NFL in passing again in 1962, but battled through injuries in 1963. The Eagles then traded him away to the Washington Redskins, which turned out to be a big mistake. Jurgensen had a Hall of Fame career in Washington.
In his first season in Washington, Jurgensen made the Pro Bowl, throwing for nearly 3,000 yards. It was the first of four Pro Bowls he played in for the Redskins, and in 1967, he broke his own NFL record for passing yards in a season (3,741).
The list of Jurgensen’s career accolades is long, as he is a member of both the Philadelphia Eagles Hall of Fame and the Washington Redskins Ring of Fame. He was named to the NFL 1960s All-Decade Team, and in 1983 was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame.
During his time in the NFL, Jurgensen was considered the best pure passer in the league. Though he played in what was considered a dead-ball era, he consistently put up huge passing numbers. To this day, thousands of fans invade FedEX Field with Jurgensen jerseys on.
That must really burn the Eagles faithful.
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