NFL Trade Deadline: 30 greatest trades in NFL history

26. Paul Warfield traded to Dolphins

Nobody needs to explain just how unfair some trades have looked on paper over the years. When it comes to some of the most surprising deals made in NFL history, the one involving wide receiver Paul Warfield arguably ranks near the top of the list.

Prior to his trade to the Miami Dolphins before the 1970 season, Warfield had been an absolute stud as a member of the Cleveland Browns. At the time, it was quite surprising to see him end up being part of this deal.

Even Warfield seemed to be surprised by the Browns’ decision to move him when looking at the impact the receiver had made during his six years with the team. In his first year with the Browns in 1964, he caught nine touchdowns.

As Cleveland fans remember, that was also the year they defeated the Baltimore Colts 27-0 in the NFL Championship Game. That season made it abundantly clear that Warfield was a special piece to this Browns team.

Rightfully so, the acquisition of Warfield by the Dolphins didn’t come cheap. Miami had to give the Browns the No. 3 pick in the 1970 NFL Draft. However, the next five years certainly made this move worthwhile for the Dolphins when seeing the numbers Warfield put up for Miami.

Reaching the Pro Bowl each season with Miami was amazing for Warfield from an individual perspective. From a team perspective, Warfield helped Miami win back-to-back Super Bowls in 1973 and 1974. This is what Dolphins fans will always cherish the most about their beloved wideout.