Tennessee traded up eight spots in the sixth round for…
Tennessee traded up eight spots in the sixth round for quarterback Zach Mettenberger, sending Washington picks that became Lache Seastrunk and Zach Hocker. Mettenberger never developed into a long-term answer, but he did start 10 games and threw for 2,347 yards as a Titan. Neither Washington selection produced regular-season value for Washington, giving Tennessee the modest but clear hindsight edge.
Tennessee Titans Received
- pick 2014 6th round pick (178th overall, Zach Mettenberger)
Washington Commanders Received
- pick 2014 6th round pick (186th overall, Lache Seastrunk)
- pick 2014 7th round pick (228th overall, Zach Hocker)
Trade Analysis
Why the Deal Happened
Tennessee wanted to take a late-round swing at LSU quarterback Zach Mettenberger and moved from No. 186 to No. 178 to secure him. Washington accepted the move down and added No. 228, gaining two late selections instead of one. For both clubs, the cost was modest and the upside case was straightforward.
What Each Side Actually Got
Mettenberger became more than a developmental roster stash. Injuries and poor team performance pushed him into the lineup, and he started 10 games over two seasons for Tennessee, throwing for 2,347 yards with 12 touchdowns and 14 interceptions. The results were not good enough to establish him as the future, but the Titans received real quarterback innings from a sixth-round choice. Washington selected running back Lache Seastrunk at No. 186 and kicker Zach Hocker at No. 228. Neither produced regular-season value for Washington.
How the Value Aged
No side found a lasting piece, so the grade ceiling should remain low. Mettenberger’s 0-10 record as a starter prevents the Titans from claiming a major victory. Still, late-round trades are judged partly by whether the acquired player reaches the field and supplies useful roster value. Tennessee received two seasons of quarterback depth and emergency starts; Washington received essentially no on-field return from its two picks.
Why the Margin Matters
The difference is not star power. It is realized value. Tennessee’s targeted gamble produced meaningful snaps at the league’s most important position, while Washington’s extra selection did not rescue its side of the exchange.
Final Verdict
Tennessee Titans Win. Tennessee earns a C+ for extracting legitimate playing time from a sixth-round quarterback. Washington receives a D because neither of its two selections became a contributor for the club.