New Orleans moved Donte' Stallworth to Philadelphia on August…
New Orleans moved Donte' Stallworth to Philadelphia on August 25, 2006 and received linebacker Mark Simoneau plus the 2007 fourth-round pick that became Jermon Bushrod. Simoneau started 29 games for the Saints across 2006 and 2007, while Bushrod developed into a long-term offensive tackle and two-time Pro Bowler. The two-piece return gave New Orleans both immediate and lasting value.
New Orleans Saints Received
- player Mark Simoneau
- pick 2007 4th round pick (125th overall, Jermon Bushrod )
Philadelphia Eagles Received
- player Donte' Stallworth
Trade Analysis
What Changed
Philadelphia acquired a proven field-stretching receiver for a 2006 playoff push, while New Orleans converted Stallworth into two different forms of value. Mark Simoneau was an experienced linebacker who could step into the Saints' defense immediately, and the future fourth-round selection gave New Orleans another chance to add a young starter. That pick became No. 125 in 2007 and was used on offensive tackle Jermon Bushrod.
Immediate Impact
The Eagles received exactly the kind of short-term offensive boost they were seeking. Stallworth played 12 regular-season games, started 11, and produced 38 receptions for 725 yards and five touchdowns. His 19.1 yards per catch reflected the explosive role Philadelphia wanted. New Orleans also got immediate help: Simoneau played all 16 games in 2006 and started 13, then started all 16 games in 2007.
Long-Term Value
The separation comes from Bushrod. New Orleans turned the acquired fourth-rounder into a tackle who became a multi-year starter and earned Pro Bowl recognition with the Saints. Simoneau's two seasons of regular starting work already made the return useful before Bushrod developed. Philadelphia's side was more concentrated: Stallworth gave the Eagles a strong 2006 season, but his Philadelphia tenure lasted only that year.
Why New Orleans Comes Out Ahead
This was not a bad trade for Philadelphia. The Eagles were contending and received meaningful production from Stallworth. The Saints, however, turned one receiver into a starting linebacker plus a draft choice that became an important offensive lineman. That combination created a larger volume and a longer duration of useful football value.
Final Verdict
New Orleans Saints Win. The Saints earn an A for getting immediate defensive help and a long-term starting tackle from the same transaction. Philadelphia earns a B because Stallworth was a productive part of the 2006 offense, but one strong season does not match the durability of New Orleans' two-part return.