Donovan McNabb To the Washington Redskins: The Unexpected Happens Once Again

The suspense is over.  Donovan McNabb is no longer a member of the Philadelphia Eagles.  The initial reaction along I-95 from the Broad St. exit to the Landover, MD exit is probably the same. 

WHY? 

Why would the Eagles trade a six time Pro Bowler who still has a few years left to a divisional rival?  It’s an unwritten code that you don’t do deals with divisional rivals, right?

Wrong! The NFL is a business.  It’s important to get the best compensation offered (not possible, but officially offered), regardless of whom the opponent is. 

I would’ve preferred two 2010 picks instead of one 2010 pick and a conditional pick next year, but this was the closest they were going to get to the first round selection they reportedly wanted for McNabb. 

Getting a second round pick (No. 37 overall) in return is nothing to sneeze at.  The Eagles definitely could use it to address one of their many needs on defense.

The Eagles couldn’t afford to wait on St. Louis while they continue to access Sam Bradford (knowing they’re going to take him).  The Redskins' second round pick is higher than Buffalo’s or Oakland’s.

Arizona and San Francisco reportedly were not interested.  How long were the Eagles supposed to wait on Brett Farve’s decision to see if Minnesota would make a deal?

Some Eagles fans are going to call this the dumbest move ever.  Some are just glad to get McNabb out of Philly.  I’m going to sum it up with one word: Bold.

Looking at this from the Redskins side is another thing.  Why would a team that went 4-12 last year want to go with a possible stop-gap solution?

New head coach Mike Shanahan could’ve helped Jason Campbell become more productive.  They could’ve selected Jim Clausen with the No. 4 overall pick.  It’s quite possible St. Louis could pass on Bradford, making him available to the Redskins at that pick.

Washington also had only five picks in this draft to begin with.  Now they only have four picks.  After the first round they won’t pick again until the fourth.

The Redskins will likely use their No. 1 pick on a left tackle (Russell Okung or Brian Bulaga).  I doubt they will surprise folks again by drafting safety Eric Berry.  McNabb isn’t as mobile as he used to be and needs his blindside protected at all costs.

McNabb has the opportunity to show the Eagles twice a year now that it was a mistake to let him go.  With Clinton Portis, Larry Johnson, and Willie Parker he can sell a play-action pass all day long. 

Overall, I think both teams got what they wanted out of the deal.  If anything, the Eagles vs the Redskins in 2010 is going to be a highly anticipated contest.  If there wasn’t a prime time match up already, I’m sure Monday Night Football is working to adjust their schedule accordingly.