Washington moved on from former No. 3 overall pick Heath…
Washington moved on from former No. 3 overall pick Heath Shuler and received a 1997 fifth-rounder plus a 1998 third-rounder. The later pick became running back Skip Hicks, who scored 13 rushing touchdowns in 38 NFL games. Shuler's New Orleans stint was brief and unsuccessful. Recovering two draft choices from a quarterback who was already trending toward bust status made this a strong Washington exit.
New Orleans Saints Received
- player Heath Shuler
Washington Commanders Received
- pick 1997 5th round pick (132nd overall, Jamel Williams)
- pick 1998 3rd round pick (69th overall, Skip Hicks)
Trade Analysis
Why Washington Chose to Move On
Heath Shuler had been the third overall pick in 1994, but his Washington tenure never matched that investment. By spring 1997, the relationship had reached the point where recovering any meaningful draft capital was valuable. Washington found a buyer in New Orleans and received a fifth-round pick in 1997 plus a third-round pick in 1998.
What New Orleans Was Betting On
The Saints were betting that a change of setting could rescue a young quarterback with first-round pedigree. It did not work. Shuler's overall NFL career ended with an 8-14 starting record, 15 touchdown passes and 33 interceptions, and his time in New Orleans was short. The Saints assumed quarterback risk without receiving the turnaround that would have justified two draft choices.
How Washington Used the Return
Washington used the 1997 fifth-rounder on Jamel Williams and the 1998 third-rounder on Skip Hicks. Hicks became the more meaningful return, rushing for 1,109 yards and 13 touchdowns across 38 NFL games. Those totals were modest, but they were tangible production from capital recovered for a player Washington was ready to replace.
Final Verdict
Washington Commanders Win. Washington earns an A- for converting a failed quarterback investment into two draft selections and getting useful production from the future third-rounder. New Orleans receives a D because the Shuler gamble provided little lasting value and cost two picks. The deal did not erase Washington's original draft mistake, but it was an effective recovery move once the franchise decided to move on.