The NFL draft is a crucial time for teams to improve their rosters and set themselves up for future success. Over the years, we've seen some significant trades on draft day that have changed the course of franchises. Here are five of the biggest draft day trades in NFL history:
1. Eli Manning trade - In 2004, the San Diego Chargers had the first overall pick in the draft, but Eli Manning had made it clear that he didn't want to play for them. The New York Giants made a deal with the Chargers, sending Philip Rivers, their first-round pick in 2004, and third-round pick in 2005 for Manning. The move paid off for the Giants, as Manning led them to two Super Bowl victories.
2. Herschel Walker trade - In 1989, the Minnesota Vikings traded five players and eight draft picks to the Dallas Cowboys for Herschel Walker. The Cowboys used the picks to draft Emmitt Smith, Darren Woodson, and other key players, while Walker struggled in Minnesota. The trade set the foundation for Dallas' success in the 1990s.
3. Ricky Williams trade - In 1999, the New Orleans Saints traded their entire draft, plus two picks in the following year's draft, to Washington for the fifth overall pick, which they used to select running back Ricky Williams. Williams had a solid career, but the trade was ultimately a failure for the Saints, as they missed out on several talented players in subsequent drafts.
4. Julio Jones trade - In 2011, the Atlanta Falcons traded five draft picks, including two first-rounders, to the Cleveland Browns for the sixth overall pick, which they used to select wide receiver Julio Jones. The move paid off for the Falcons, as Jones became one of the best receivers in the league and helped lead them to a Super Bowl appearance.
5. John Elway trade - In 1983, the Baltimore Colts held the first overall pick in the draft and were expected to select quarterback John Elway. However, Elway had made it clear that he didn't want to play for the Colts. The Denver Broncos traded their first-round pick in 1983, their first-round pick in 1984, and quarterback Mark Herrmann to the Colts for Elway. The move paid off for the Broncos, as Elway led them to two Super Bowl victories and is considered one of the greatest quarterbacks in NFL history.
In conclusion, draft day trades can be risky, but when they pay off, they can change the course of a franchise. These five trades are among the biggest and most impactful in NFL history.
Kommentare