Washington moved up to No. 35 in the 2006 draft for…
Washington moved up to No. 35 in the 2006 draft for linebacker Rocky McIntosh, sending the Jets picks 53 and 189 plus a 2007 second-rounder. New York later used those pieces in multiple moves: No. 53 helped facilitate the Kellen Clemens trade-up, No. 189 became Drew Coleman after more movement, and the 2007 pick helped bring Thomas Jones.
New York Jets Received
- pick 2006 2nd round pick (53rd overall, later traded to Dallas in the move for Kellen Clemens)
- pick 2006 6th round pick (189th overall, later reacquired and used on Drew Coleman )
- pick 2007 2nd round pick (37th overall, later traded to Chicago in the Thomas Jones deal)
Washington Commanders Received
- pick 2006 2nd round pick (35th overall, Rocky McIntosh)
Trade Analysis
Why Washington Moved Up
Washington targeted linebacker Rocky McIntosh and traded into the 35th slot, sending New York picks No. 53 and No. 189 in 2006 plus a second-round selection in 2007. The Commanders, then known as the Redskins, paid a premium to secure a specific defender. The Jets chose a broader asset package and retained several paths to turn those picks into players.
What Washington Received
McIntosh became a useful multi-year starter, so this was not a failed move-up. He spent six seasons with Washington and developed into a regular part of the defense. That production supports a solid grade and distinguishes the trade from deals in which a team gives up multiple picks for a player who never establishes himself.
How New York Used the Return
The Jets' return traveled through several transactions. Pick No. 53 was later sent to Dallas in the move that brought New York up for quarterback Kellen Clemens. Pick No. 189 was also moved and then reacquired, with the Jets ultimately selecting defensive back Drew Coleman. Most importantly, the 2007 second-rounder became No. 37 and was later sent to Chicago in the deal that brought running back Thomas Jones to New York. Those downstream uses spread the value across multiple roster decisions.
Why This Trade Still Matters
This is a good reminder that draft compensation should be followed beyond the first transaction. Washington got the player it wanted and received worthwhile service. New York, however, turned the package into several useful avenues, with Thomas Jones becoming the most important later result.
Final Verdict
New York Jets Win. The Jets earn a B+ because the three-pick return remained productive trade currency and helped support acquisitions including Thomas Jones. Washington receives a B because McIntosh was a legitimate starter and justified much of the aggressive move. New York's greater breadth and downstream value produce the edge, but this was a productive transaction for both clubs.