The Greatest Trade For Every NFL Team In History

26 of 33

Oct 26, 2014; Glendale, AZ, USA; Detailed view of a Philadelphia Eagles helmet on the field next to a Wilson official NFL football against the Arizona Cardinals at University of Phoenix Stadium. The Cardinals defeated the Eagles 24-20. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports /

Philadelphia Eagles: The Bill Bergey trade

During the mid-1970s, the Philadelphia Eagles were a down and out franchise considered among the worst in the NFL. The team had no core of talent to build around and coaches they brought in had few answers. When GM Jim Murray took over the team in 1973, he knew the culture had to be changed. It started with finding a blue chip player that could energize both the roster and the fan base. Murray, despite having no 1st round pick in 1974, 1975 or 1976 decided to trade the 1st rounders in 1977 and 1978 to the Cincinnati Bengals in exchange for middle linebacker Bill Bergey.

It was a bold move in the extreme at the time. Bergey hadn’t been to a Pro Bowl since his rookie year in 1969 and was 29-years old when the trade occurred. Thankfully it was the right call. He became the heart of the Eagles defense for the rest of the decade, reaching four Pro Bowls and being named All-Pro twice. His finale season with the team he helped them reach Super Bowl XV, completing the turnaround that began with his arrival six years before. Bergey remains a beloved figure in Philly to this day.

Next: Go

Home/NFL Hot Takes