Washington paid a 2005 third-rounder plus its 2006 first- and…
Washington paid a 2005 third-rounder plus its 2006 first- and fourth-round selections to obtain Denver's No. 25 pick and draft quarterback Jason Campbell. Campbell became a multi-year starter, so the move was not empty. Denver nevertheless received a premium package, including the pick used on Brandon Marshall and a future first-rounder, making the Broncos the clear value winner despite Washington getting meaningful quarterback play.
Washington Commanders Received
- pick 2005 1st round pick (25th overall, Jason Campbell )
Denver Broncos Received
- pick 2005 3rd round pick (76th overall, Karl Paymah)
- pick 2006 1st round pick (22nd overall, later traded)
- pick 2006 4th round pick (119th overall, Brandon Marshall )
Trade Analysis
Why the Trade Happened
Washington wanted another first-round selection in the 2005 draft and targeted Auburn quarterback Jason Campbell as a developmental option behind Mark Brunell. Denver was willing to move the 25th pick for a package tilted toward the future. Contemporary reporting established the full price: Washington's 2005 third-round pick, its 2006 first-round pick and its 2006 fourth-round pick for Denver's No. 25 selection.
What the Returns Produced
Washington selected Campbell, who eventually started 52 games for the franchise and showed stretches of capable play. He never developed into the long-term answer the club hoped for, but he provided substantially more than a typical failed first-round quarterback. Denver used the 2005 third-rounder on Karl Paymah. The 2006 fourth-rounder became Brandon Marshall, who developed into a Pro Bowl-caliber receiver. Denver also controlled Washington's 2006 first-rounder at No. 22 and later traded that choice for additional draft value.
How the Value Developed
The future first-round pick is the decisive piece. Washington accepted the risk of surrendering premium capital before knowing where its 2006 selection would land, and the Broncos ended up with a valuable first-round asset plus two other choices. Marshall's emergence made the package even stronger. Campbell's serviceable starting run prevents Washington from receiving a failing grade, but it did not approach the total value Denver extracted from the transaction.
Why This Trade Still Matters
This deal illustrates the premium teams often pay to secure a quarterback before draft day. Washington acquired the player it wanted, but Denver gained both volume and future upside, allowing the Broncos to benefit from multiple paths rather than a single prospect.
Final Verdict
Denver Broncos Win is the best fit. Denver earns an A for converting No. 25 into a deep package with major downstream value, while Washington earns a C+ because Campbell became a legitimate starter but did not justify the full three-pick price.