In-Depth Coverage: Donovan McNabb Shipped to Redskins!

The offseason leading up to the 2010 season has been filled with big transactions and surprising releases, but no move captured more attention than what was executed moments ago. The release of players like Brian Westbrook and Shawn Andrews, as well as trades that shipped away guys such as Sheldon Brown, were all bold moves by the Eagles, but what they recently announced is sure to remain the organization’s most talked-about decision for weeks, months, and perhaps even years. When this article was initially published, the story/topic was breaking news, and contained a blockbuster move, to say the least: QB Donovan McNabb has been traded to the Redskins. It’s quite difficult to analyze the entire situation in one sitting, so to speak, but this move will be evaluated with more detail as the offseason progresses. For now, some general information regarding the deal has been listed and discussed:

Originally a 1st-round selection in the 1999 NFL Draft, and one of the few remaining Eagles that played in the team’s appearance in Super Bowl XXXIX, McNabb established himself as arguably the best quarterback in franchise history. He broke nearly all relevant passing records previously set (including the most passing yards and touchdowns in team history), and became one of the most heralded fan-favorite players. He appeared in the league’s Pro-Bowl contest an impressive six times, including one this past season, and led the Eagles to five NFC Championship games; in addition, the club made the playoffs eight times out of the eleven years McNabb was present, a remarkable number that simply cannot be regarded without respect. Besides his on-field achievements, the veteran passer was very well known for his contributions in charitable work and community service. He partnered with numerous companies, created various associations with cancer research programs, and was overall a well-respected man in addition to being an honored player.

McNabb’s best season was clearly in ‘04, the year in which the team went to the Super Bowl, where he tossed a career-high 3,875 yards and 31 touchdowns opposed to just eight interceptions, and also ran for 220 yards and a trio of scores. The Syracuse product garnered the NFC Offensive Player of the Year award in that same season, and was also voted onto the team’s 75th Anniversary squad as the QB during the 2007 campaign. Some of the notable moments from McNabb’s lengthy and wonderful career in midnight green include the time when he scrambled around the field for 14 seconds and completed a deep pass to WR Freddie Mitchell, came up in the clutch by firing a completion during an improbable 4th-and-26 situation, and when he tossed four touchdowns against the Cardinals on a broken ankle in 2002.

Injuries and inconsistent play down the stretch of seasons began to build up, and towards the final few years of his tenure in Philadelphia, rumors seemed to be constantly flowing, suggesting that the quarterback should and would be traded. The selection of Kevin Kolb in the 2007 NFL Draft solidified many fans’ desire to rid of McNabb despite his impressive career credentials and clear leadership. Of course, there were several other obstacles that indicated an end was near for the QB as an Eagle, such as failure to advance past the Championship game in ‘08 and missed time in ‘06 that was replaced with success by veteran backup Jeff Garcia. Not once during the tough times, though, did McNabb attempt to stir up the situation; he always stood firm in his wish to retire as an Eagle and remain with the club. Rumors and speculative reports were taken to a higher level this offseason because of the supposed development of Kolb as well as the obviously increasing age of McNabb, and ultimately the front office decided to make the move, which further emphasized the movement to get younger.

Various teams were mentioned as being interested in acquiring the veteran, from the Denver Broncos to the St. Louis Rams. Over the last few weeks, the hunt for McNabb was seemingly narrowed down, with the Bills and Raiders reportedly showing the most desire to obtain the quarterback in a trade. Oakland was called the clear front runner for McNabb several times, and rumored trade offers were even confirmed and released to the public. However, the rival Redskins suddenly jumped into the mix earlier in the weekend and apparently did a great job convincing the front office to ship their star passer to Washington, even with the team being a division rival. It will certainly be interesting to see McNabb donning a red and yellow uniform in 2010 and facing the Birds at least twice. In fact, it could be more frightening than interesting if you think about it. With the acquisition of McNabb, the ‘Skins have virtually propelled themselves into the heated race for the NFC East title and a playoff spot; the team’s meetings with the Eagles could actually be of great importance.

The Eagles received a 2nd-round Draft pick and either a 3rd- or 4th-round selection in next year’s Draft in exchange for McNabb, depending on how well the QB performs in the 2010 season. When examining whether Philadelphia got fair compensation in return for their longtime offensive leader, it should be noted the 2nd-round pick is 37th overall, so it is just five spots out of the 1st-round. This–along with the conditional 2011 pick–gives the Eagles plenty of choices for the rookie selection event that takes place later this month, and it also allows them to hold a good deal of ammunition that could potentially be used for another trade. Some expected the Redskins to include a player or two in their deal for McNabb, and while monstrous DT Albert Haynesworth was confirmed to be a part of discussions–the trade was finalized with both parties agreeing the Draft picks were enough. And while many could make reasonable arguments that McNabb was worth at least a 1st-round pick, the Eagles probably got the most they could for the aging passer while also sending him to a place not too far away from Philadelphia and not to an organization he expressed displeasure in (i.e. Oakland, Buffalo).

With a Super Bowl victory, McNabb might very well be headed on a path towards the Hall of Fame, so the Eagles are clearly losing a talented, classy member of their franchise. However, the team obviously felt the need to move on, and wish the best of Donovan elsewhere (which, for now, is in Washington). “Donovan McNabb was more than a franchise quarterback for this team,” team owner Jeffrey Lurie said. “He truly embodied all of the attributes of a great quarterback and of a great person. He has been an excellent representative of this organization and the entire National Football League both on and off the field. I look forward to honoring him as one of the greatest Eagles of all-time and hopefully see him enshrined in the Pro Football Hall of Fame in Canton one day.” Head coach Reid–who had what was considered an unbreakable relationship with the QB over the last decade–also commented on the situation, saying “Donovan McNabb represented everything a football player could be during his 11 seasons in Philadelphia. He carried this organization to new heights and set a high standard of excellence both on and off the field. We thank him for everything he did for this football team and for this city.”

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