NFL Trade Verdict

Jacksonville Jaguars Win

Summary: Jacksonville traded franchise QB Mark Brunell — well past his prime — to Washington for a 2004 3rd-round pick (72nd overall, later traded as Donnell Washington). Analysis: By 2004, Brunell's best years were behind him; Jacksonville had already shifted toward Byron Leftwich. Getting a 3rd-round pick for a veteran starting QB, even a declining one, represents solid return. Washington got a recognizable name but a diminished player. B is appropriate — Jacksonville made a savvy exit from an aging contract while recovering draft capital.

March 3, 2004 Jacksonville JaguarsWashington Redskins Commanders Confidence: high Tier: standard

Jacksonville Jaguars Received

Trade Summary

Summary: Jacksonville traded franchise QB Mark Brunell — well past his prime — to Washington for a 2004 3rd-round pick (72nd overall, later traded as Donnell Washington). Analysis: By 2004, Brunell's best years were behind him; Jacksonville had already shifted toward Byron Leftwich. Getting a 3rd-round pick for a veteran starting QB, even a declining one, represents solid return. Washington got a recognizable name but a diminished player. B is appropriate — Jacksonville made a savvy exit from an aging contract while recovering draft capital.

Trade Analysis

Summary: Jacksonville traded franchise QB Mark Brunell — well past his prime — to Washington for a 2004 3rd-round pick (72nd overall, later traded as Donnell Washington). Analysis: By 2004, Brunell's best years were behind him; Jacksonville had already shifted toward Byron Leftwich. Getting a 3rd-round pick for a veteran starting QB, even a declining one, represents solid return. Washington got a recognizable name but a diminished player. B is appropriate — Jacksonville made a savvy exit from an aging contract while recovering draft capital. Washington acquired Brunell hoping for one more productive run, but the QB never recaptured his peak form. Surrendering a 3rd-round pick for an aging starter was an overpay given Brunell's declining production. Grade: C