Washington sent New Orleans the 72nd pick in the 2011 draft…
Washington sent New Orleans the 72nd pick in the 2011 draft for tackle Jammal Brown and the 155th selection. Brown started 26 games over two seasons, while the fifth-round choice became Niles Paul, who spent six years in Washington and developed into a useful tight end and special-teams player. New Orleans selected Martez Wilson at No. 72, but his impact never matched Washington's combined return.
New Orleans Saints Received
- pick 2011 3rd round pick (72nd overall, Martez Wilson)
Washington Commanders Received
- player Jammal Brown
- pick 2011 5th round pick (155th overall, Niles Paul)
Trade Analysis
Why Washington Wanted Jammal Brown
Washington acquired former Pro Bowl tackle Jammal Brown from New Orleans in June 2010. The final compensation became Washington's 2011 third-round pick, No. 72, while New Orleans also sent back a 2011 fifth-rounder, No. 155. Washington was trying to strengthen its offensive line with an experienced starter rather than wait for another draft cycle.
What Brown and Niles Paul Added
Brown gave Washington two seasons of starting work, appearing in 27 games and starting 26 across 2010 and 2011. The fifth-round choice became Nebraska receiver Niles Paul. Paul later transitioned to tight end and remained with Washington for six seasons, appearing in 82 games with 26 starts. He contributed on special teams and eventually produced 78 career receptions for 954 yards.
What New Orleans Received
The Saints used No. 72 on linebacker Martez Wilson. Wilson had athletic upside and appeared in 38 career games, but he never developed into a long-term starting defender. He recorded five career sacks and provided some rotational value before moving through several teams. That is not an empty return, but it falls short of two useful Washington contributors.
Why This Trade Still Matters
The original framing can make the deal look like an aging tackle for a third-round pick. The fifth-rounder coming back to Washington matters. Once Paul is included, Washington received both short-term starting-line help and a longer-lived role player.
Final Verdict
Washington Commanders Win. Washington earns a B+ for extracting 26 Brown starts plus six seasons of Paul. New Orleans receives a C because Wilson contributed, but the Saints did not create comparable total value from the third-round selection.