New England Patriots

New England acquired Walter Rouse and Minnesota’s 2027 seventh-round pick for a 2027 sixth-round pick on August 30, 2026. Rouse, a 2024 sixth-rounder with eight NFL appearances, gives the Patriots tackle-guard depth after an injury weakened their reserve line. Minnesota improves its draft slot while moving surplus depth, but New England gets the slight edge because the pick downgrade buys a young, experienced lineman at a position of need.

Arizona traded Corey Kiner to New England for a 2028 seventh-round pick. The Cardinals turned a crowded-backfield extra into future draft capital, which is reasonable roster management, but the return is still light for a 24-year-old runner who flashed throughout the preseason. Arizona gets something instead of risking a waiver loss, yet the stronger current value sits with New England.

Houston acquired Kayshon Boutte from New England on August 24, 2026 for safety Jaylen Reed and a 2028 seventh-round pick. The Texans moved quickly after Jayden Higgins suffered a season-ending ACL tear, adding a 24-year-old outside receiver who caught 33 passes for 551 yards and six touchdowns in 2025 and averaged 16.7 yards per reception.

Miami acquired offensive lineman Caedan Wallace plus a 2029 seventh-round pick from New England for a 2028 sixth-round selection. The Dolphins bought a young tackle with starting experience at a modest future cost, but New England moved a player from a crowded line room and improved the timing and round of its draft capital.

New England acquired A.J. Brown from Philadelphia for a 2028 first-round pick and a 2027 fifth-round pick, adding an established No. 1 receiver to its offense. Brown had topped 1,000 receiving yards in each of his four Eagles seasons, including 1,003 in 2025. The Patriots paid a major future asset, but the immediate roster upgrade supports a B+ while Philadelphia receives a C+ for choosing long-term draft value.

Jacksonville Jaguars received Josh Cameron at No. 191; the rookie made Jacksonville's roster and opened 2026 with two catches for 20 yards and a touchdown, plus a 23-yard kick return. The team earns a C, compared with C for New England Patriots, and the hindsight verdict is Even Trade. That judgment reflects the concrete team-specific production, role and tenure created by the assets in this deal.

Minnesota sent New England the 234th pick in the 2026 draft plus a 2027 sixth-round choice to move up to No. 198 for running back Demond Claiborne. The Patriots used No. 234 on quarterback Behren Morton. Both rookies made their clubs' initial 53-man rosters, while the future sixth remains unresolved, making an even grade appropriate.

Los Angeles moved down from No. 55 to No. 63 in the 2026 draft and added Nos. 131 and 202. Those selections became Jake Slaughter, Genesis Smith and Logan Taylor, while New England used No. 55 on Gabe Jacas. The Chargers gained three swings for one, but none of the players has completed an NFL regular season, leaving the long-term result appropriately even for now.

Buffalo moved down three spots from No. 28 to No. 31 in the 2026 first round and added pick 125, while New England climbed to No. 28 for Utah tackle Caleb Lomu. The Bills later moved No. 31 again and kept No. 125, using it on UConn receiver Skyler Bell. With both rookies still before their first regular season, the exchange remains appropriately even.

Houston acquired Marte Mapu and a 2027 seventh-round pick from New England for a 2027 sixth-round pick. Mapu's Texans tenure is only beginning, and neither future selection has been used yet. That leaves both sides with identifiable but largely unrealized value. With the player sample and both draft branches still unresolved, Houston and New England each receive C+ and the trade is Even.

Chicago agreed on March 6, 2026 to send a 2027 fifth-round pick to New England for center Garrett Bradbury, a deal that became official with the new league year on March 11. The Bears moved quickly after Drew Dalman's retirement, adding a veteran who had started all 105 of his NFL games and every game of New England's 2025 run to Super Bowl LX.

Pittsburgh acquired veteran safety Kyle Dugger and a 2026 seventh-round pick from New England in October 2025 for a 2026 sixth-round pick. Dugger arrived with 81 career games, 69 starts, nine interceptions and extensive starting experience. The late-round pick swap narrowed the acquisition cost, making this a veteran-for-draft-position transaction rather than a pure player sale.

New England converted the acquired No. 198 pick into rookie quarterback Behren Morton at No. 234 plus a 2027 sixth-rounder, leaving that branch too early for a final grade. San Francisco got nine 2025 games, two starts and 1.5 sacks from Keion White, then another Week 1 start and fumble recovery in 2026. The conditional seventh reverted to New England. San Francisco keeps a narrow B- to C+ win.

New Orleans acquired Ja'Lynn Polk and a 2028 seventh-round pick from New England for a 2027 sixth. Polk was already unavailable for the 2025 season because of a shoulder injury and never played a regular-season snap for the Saints; he was placed on the Reserve/Retired list in August 2026. New England therefore improved from a future seventh to a sixth while moving a player who produced no Saints on-field return.

Detroit moved up from No. 182 to No. 171 in the 2025 draft by also sending pick No. 228 to New England. The Lions selected guard Miles Frazier, while the Patriots took kicker Andy Borregales at 182 and later recycled 228 into additional seventh-round capital. Borregales' record-setting 134-point rookie season gives New England the clear early edge.

Kansas City moved from picks No. 251 and No. 257 to No. 228 and selected Brashard Smith. Smith contributed 151 rushing yards and 172 receiving yards as a rookie. New England used No. 251 on long snapper Julian Ashby, who handled every regular-season game and all four postseason contests, while Kobee Minor supplied depth from No. 257. Both clubs found useful late-round roles, making the exchange remarkably balanced.

New England Patriots received Joshua Farmer at No. 137; he played 13 games with three starts as a rookie, making 15 tackles with a pass defensed and a fumble recovery before landing on injured reserve. The team earns a C+, compared with B- for Seattle Seahawks, and the hindsight verdict is Seattle Seahawks Win. That judgment reflects the concrete team-specific production, role and tenure created by the assets in this deal.

Carolina moved from pick No. 85 to No. 77 and selected edge defender Princely Umanmielen, sending New England No. 85 and No. 146. Umanmielen appeared in 16 games with 23 tackles and 1.5 sacks as a rookie. New England later moved No. 85 in another deal and used No. 146 on Bradyn Swinson, who had a limited rookie role. Neither side has created enough separation for a winner.

Kansas City moved from No. 95 to No. 85 for cornerback Nohl Williams, sending New England the later third-round pick plus a 2026 fourth. Williams contributed immediately with 44 tackles, seven passes defensed and a sack. New England answered with Jared Wilson, who started 13 regular-season games and all four postseason contests as a rookie, while also retaining the extra fourth as trade capital. That combination gives the Patriots a narrow edge.

Dallas got four reserve appearances and 183 passing yards from Joe Milton in 2025 plus five games and three tackles from Jay Toia. New England converted No. 171 into Andy Borregales and another pick that became Julian Ashby and Kobee Minor. Borregales scored a Patriots-rookie-record 134 points, while Ashby handled all 17 regular-season games at long snapper. New England wins, B+ to C.

New Orleans acquired veteran defensive tackle Davon Godchaux from New England in March 2025 for a 2026 seventh-round pick. That Saints choice became No. 224 overall, Robert Spears-Jennings, after New England later included the pick in another trade. The Saints added an experienced interior defender immediately, while the Patriots converted a veteran contract into usable future draft capital.

Kansas City acquired edge rusher Josh Uche from New England for a future sixth-round pick, adding low-cost pass-rush depth for a championship run. Uche's role with the Chiefs remained limited, so the Patriots ultimately converted a player nearing free agency into draft capital without surrendering meaningful long-term production. The gap is small, but New England's retained asset gives it the better hindsight result.

Atlanta acquired Matthew Judon from New England for a 2025 third-round pick and received one season of veteran edge help. Judon recorded 5.5 sacks for the Falcons in 2024 before the sides separated. New England converted an aging player entering a contract dispute into a valuable Day 2 selection, while Atlanta received useful but short-term pass-rush production.

Los Angeles moved up three spots in the 2024 second round for Ladd McConkey and also received fifth-round cornerback Tarheeb Still, while New England took Ja'Lynn Polk and Javon Baker. McConkey has produced 1,938 receiving yards and 13 touchdowns through two seasons, and Still has become a regular starter with four career interceptions. The Patriots’ two receivers have not approached that impact, making this a clear Chargers win.

Jacksonville Jaguars received Mac Jones in the 2024-03-13 exchange, while New England Patriots received 2024 6th round pick (193rd overall, Joe Milton). Jacksonville acquired Mac Jones as a low-cost quarterback addition and gave up a sixth-round pick. The move provided depth and a familiar player for the organization, but the price still became a concrete draft asset for New England.

Los Angeles Chargers received 2025 6th round pick (181st overall; subsequently traded by Los Angeles) in the 2023-10-04 exchange with New England Patriots. Los Angeles moved on from an expensive cornerback situation and gained the better 2025 draft position, creating a modest practical benefit despite dead money. The direct return and the football value it produced drive the hindsight judgment. Against the assets Los Angeles Chargers surrendered, the result supports Los Angeles Chargers Win and a B- grade for Los Angeles Chargers.

New England Patriots received 2025 7th round pick (217th overall subsequently traded, Jay Toia) from Tennessee Titans. New England received a 2025 seventh-round choice and later moved that selection in a separate package. The Patriots did not realize a comparable direct football return from this transaction itself. That outcome supports a C grade for New England Patriots. The final verdict is Tennessee Titans Win, based on the football value the club actually realized from the assets it controlled after the exchange.

Minnesota traded tackle Vederian Lowe to New England on August 28, 2023, for a 2024 sixth-round pick, No. 188. The Vikings later moved that selection as part of subsequent draft maneuvering; Jamal Hill was eventually chosen at No. 188 by another club. Lowe provided New England some tackle starts, but Minnesota's recovery of useful draft capital for a reserve gives the Vikings a slight edge.

Cleveland Browns received Pierre Strong in the exchange with New England Patriots. Pierre Strong Jr. appeared in every Browns game in 2023 and 14 more in 2024, contributing as a runner, receiver, and returner. Against New England Patriots' return of Tyrone Wheatley Jr., that outcome supports a B grade. The transaction is judged as Cleveland Browns Win, with the mark based on the football value that actually followed from the deal.

New England Patriots received 2023 4th round pick (112th overall, Chad Ryland) in the 2023-04-29 exchange with New York Jets. Chad Ryland lasted one season in New England, and his later work elsewhere does not add Patriots value. The direct package, rather than later movement of any acquired asset, is the basis for the hindsight judgment. Against what New England Patriots surrendered, the result supports New York Jets Win.

Las Vegas acquired pick No. 135 from New England and selected Aidan O'Connell, while the Patriots received picks Nos. 144 and 214 for Atonio Mafi and Ameer Speed. O'Connell made 17 starts over his first two seasons and threw for more than 3,900 career yards through 2025. New England's two players provided depth but less impact, giving the Raiders a modest win.

Pittsburgh sent picks 17 and 120 to New England for No. 14, using the move up on tackle Broderick Jones. Jones has started 38 games through three seasons but missed the final six games of 2025 with injury. New England stayed in the first round and drafted Christian Gonzalez, a 2024 second-team All-Pro and 2025 Pro Bowler. The fourth-round asset was later moved, and Gonzalez’s elite cornerback play now gives New England a clear win.

Atlanta acquired tight end Jonnu Smith from New England for a 2023 seventh-round pick. Smith responded with 50 receptions for 582 yards and three touchdowns in 2023, all career highs or near-career highs at the time, before Atlanta released him the next offseason. New England used No. 245 on Isaiah Bolden, who later appeared in 14 games without a start in 2024. One strong season for a seventh-rounder favors Atlanta.

Las Vegas received tackle Justin Herron and the future seventh-round pick that became Trey Taylor. Herron appeared in seven Raiders games with one start, while Taylor later supplied special-teams depth in nine regular-season games. Neither asset became a major piece, but the Raiders converted the exchange into two modest forms of usable roster value and therefore hold a slight edge.

Chicago Bears received N'Keal Harry in the 2022-07-12 exchange, while New England Patriots received 2024 7th round pick (231st overall, Jaheim Bell). Chicago acquired N’Keal Harry for a future seventh-round choice. The cost was low, but Harry did not produce enough value for the Bears to make the acquisition a clear success, keeping Chicago around an average grade.

Las Vegas acquired Jarrett Stidham and a 2023 seventh-round selection that became Nesta Jade Silvera. Stidham appeared in five games and made two starts for the Raiders, throwing for 656 yards and four touchdowns, while Silvera added defensive depth. That combination produced a clearer direct football return than the future sixth-round asset New England received.

Carolina paid a 2022 fourth-round pick and a 2023 third-rounder to move up for Matt Corral at No. 94. Corral missed his rookie season with a foot injury and was waived before ever appearing in a regular-season game for the Panthers. New England used the fourth-rounder on Bailey Zappe and the future third on Marte Mapu, producing substantially more usable NFL value from the exchange.

New England moved up from No. 54 to No. 50 in the 2022 draft for wide receiver Tyquan Thornton, sending Kansas City the 54th and 158th picks. The Chiefs selected Skyy Moore at No. 54. Neither receiver became a consistent starter for his drafting club, but Moore contributed a crucial touchdown in Kansas City's Super Bowl LVII victory. That championship moment gives the Chiefs a modest edge.

Kansas City traded picks No. 29, No. 94 and No. 121 to New England to move up to No. 21 for cornerback Trent McDuffie. McDuffie became a championship cornerstone, winning two Super Bowls with Kansas City and earning consecutive All-Pro recognition. New England received Cole Strange and additional draft capital, but none of that return approached McDuffie's elite value at a premium position.

Houston Texans received 2022 5th round pick (170th overall, Teagan Quitoriano) in the 2022-04-25 exchange with New England Patriots. Teagan Quitoriano provided some tight-end snaps for Houston, but not enough to create a clear long-term advantage. The direct package, rather than later movement of any acquired asset, is the basis for the hindsight judgment. Against what Houston Texans surrendered, the result supports Even Trade.

Miami sent DeVante Parker and a 2022 fifth-round pick to New England for a 2023 third-rounder. Parker gave the Patriots veteran receiving help but never became a difference-making long-term piece, while Miami extracted premium draft position from a player whose role was shrinking after the Tyreek Hill acquisition. The third-round return carried more lasting roster value than New England received from Parker and the accompanying fifth-round selection.

Cleveland received Chase Winovich for Mack Wilson in a linebacker-for-edge swap that became official on March 16, 2022. Winovich gave the Browns eight games, 18 tackles and one sack before leaving after the season. Wilson became a useful two-year Patriots contributor, playing all 34 regular-season games and producing five sacks. New England extracted the longer and more productive return, giving the Patriots the clear hindsight win.

Tampa Bay acquired veteran guard Shaq Mason from New England for the 170th pick in the 2022 draft. Mason started all 17 games for the Buccaneers during Tom Brady's final season and gave them needed stability after Ali Marpet retired. Tampa then traded Mason to Houston in 2023 and moved up from the seventh to the sixth round in the process. One strong starting season for a fifth-rounder makes the Buccaneers the winner.

Carolina acquired cornerback Stephon Gilmore from New England for a 2023 sixth-round pick. Gilmore gave the Panthers eight games, two interceptions and a Pro Bowl selection before leaving after the season. New England eventually used the pick on receiver Kayshon Boutte, who developed into a productive asset and later carried additional trade value. Carolina received a quality rental, but the Patriots captured the better long-term return.

Kansas City Chiefs received 2022 7th round pick (243rd overall, Jaylen Watson) from New England Patriots. Watson developed into a meaningful Chiefs defensive back and produced important postseason plays during a championship stretch, far exceeding typical seventh-round expectations. The A grade reflects the direct value Kansas City Chiefs realized from the transaction, with the final Kansas City Chiefs Win call based on actual service and clearly traceable draft outcomes rather than projected value.

Baltimore received a 2022 seventh-round choice and a 2023 fifth-round choice. The Ravens later moved both selections through additional transactions, preserving flexibility and extracting continued value from two pieces of draft capital rather than relying on one player to develop. That result supports a B grade within the Baltimore Ravens Win verdict.

The Rams acquired running back Sony Michel from New England for draft compensation that became a 2022 sixth-round pick and a 2023 fourth-round pick. Michel rushed for 845 yards in 2021, stabilized the backfield through injuries and contributed to a Super Bowl LVI championship season. New England received legitimate future capital, but the Rams bought exactly the short-term production and postseason relevance they needed.

New England sent picks 46, 122 and 139 to Cincinnati to move up to No. 38 for Christian Barmore. Barmore has 15.5 sacks through five seasons, including an 8.5-sack breakout in 2023, and returned to start 16 games in 2025 after a serious medical issue limited 2024. Cincinnati's Jackson Carman, Tyler Shelvin and D'Ante Smith never produced comparable long-term value. The Patriots turned a three-for-one move into the only clear impact player.

Houston Texans received Ryan Izzo in the 2021-03-18 exchange involving New England Patriots. Izzo did not make Houston's regular-season roster in 2021 and was waived at the final cutdown, leaving the Texans without regular-season production from the player they acquired. That realized return supports a D grade for Houston Texans. The overall verdict is New England Patriots Win, with the grade based on direct value created from this transaction.

Houston acquired Marcus Cannon plus 2021 picks No. 158 and No. 195 from New England for picks No. 122 and No. 188. Cannon is a separate direct player asset, and later pick movement must remain downstream provenance. The Texans gained a veteran tackle and draft capital, while New England retained meaningful selections, leaving the trade close to balanced in hindsight.

Las Vegas Raiders received 2022 5th round pick (164th overall; subsequently traded by Las Vegas) in the 2021-03-17 exchange with New England Patriots. Las Vegas received a fifth-round asset but did not turn that return into value comparable to the starting tackle it sent away. The direct return and the football value it produced drive the hindsight judgment. Against the assets Las Vegas Raiders surrendered, the result supports New England Patriots Win and a C grade for Las Vegas Raiders.

Miami traded receiver Isaiah Ford to New England at the 2020 deadline for a conditional 2022 sixth-round pick. Ford caught only a handful of passes for the Patriots and was waived roughly a month later, after which Miami reclaimed him. The Dolphins therefore recovered the player while also retaining the draft compensation that was ultimately conveyed, turning a short-term roster move into a clear value gain.

Detroit Lions received conditional 2022 seventh-round pick (not conveyed) from New England Patriots. Detroit’s return was a conditional 2022 seventh-round pick, and the condition was never satisfied. The pick was not conveyed, so the Lions received no realized draft value from the transaction. That outcome supports a D grade for Detroit Lions when the trade is measured by the football value actually realized after the exchange.

Indianapolis traded the 182nd pick to New England for selections 212 and 213, using them on Dezmon Patmon and Jordan Glasgow. The Patriots selected Michael Onwenu at No. 182. Patmon and Glasgow filled limited roles, while Onwenu became one of New England's best offensive linemen, starting at guard and tackle and eventually earning a multi-year contract to remain with the Patriots. New England won decisively.

New England moved up for No. 60 and also received No. 129, sending Baltimore picks No. 71 and No. 98. The Patriots selected Joshua Uche at 60, while the Ravens landed Justin Madubuike at 71 and Malik Harrison at 98. Uche produced a breakout pass-rushing season, but Madubuike became a Pro Bowl and All-Pro defensive tackle and a long-term defensive cornerstone for Baltimore.

New England traded Nos. 125, 129 and a 2021 sixth-round pick to the Jets for No. 101 in the 2020 draft, then selected tight end Dalton Keene. The Patriots consolidated three selections to move up, but Keene never developed into a significant offensive contributor. The Jets gained volume with James Morgan, Cameron Clark and Hamsah Nasirildeen, yet their group also produced little durable value.

Las Vegas sent New England picks No. 91 and No. 159 for Nos. 100, 139 and 172. The Patriots drafted Devin Asiasi and Justin Rohrwasser, while the Raiders selected Tanner Muse and Amik Robertson before moving the 172nd pick. Muse did not last, but Robertson developed into a multi-year defensive contributor and starter. New England received little lasting value from either of its selections.

The Chargers traded picks 37 and 71 to New England for No. 23 in the 2020 draft and selected linebacker Kenneth Murray. Murray became a multi-year starter, but Los Angeles declined his fifth-year option and he left after four seasons. New England selected safety Kyle Dugger at 37 and later moved pick 71. Dugger became a long-term defensive playmaker and earned a four-year extension, giving the Patriots the better return.

Tampa Bay acquired Rob Gronkowski and a seventh-round pick from New England for a fourth-round selection after Gronkowski came out of retirement to reunite with Tom Brady. Gronkowski delivered 1,425 receiving yards and 13 touchdowns over two regular seasons and caught two touchdowns in Tampa Bay's Super Bowl LV victory. New England used the fourth-round asset in a larger trade-up that produced Devin Asiasi and Justin Rohrwasser, neither of whom became a comparable contributor. Tampa Bay won overwhelmingly.

Detroit acquired Duron Harmon plus No. 235, later used on Jashon Cornell. Harmon immediately became a full-time starter in 2020, starting all 16 games, playing nearly every defensive snap, making 73 tackles, and intercepting two passes. Cornell added only one Detroit appearance, but Harmon's one-season workload alone supplied substantial direct value and made the Lions' side productive.

Dallas Cowboys received Michael Bennett from New England Patriots, giving up 2021 6th round pick (195th overall subsequently traded, Roy Lopez). The conditional late-round return ultimately became 2021 sixth-round selection No. 195. The return supports a C+ grade because the value directly tied to this deal fits that mark. The final verdict is New England Patriots Win.

Atlanta traded Mohamed Sanu to New England for a 2020 second-round pick that settled at No. 55. The Falcons later packaged that selection in the Hayden Hurst trade and received Hurst plus a fourth-rounder. Sanu's Patriots tenure lasted only eight regular-season games and one playoff appearance before he was released the next year, making Atlanta's premium draft return clearly more valuable.

New England Patriots received 2021 6th round pick (186th overall subsequently traded, Hamsah Nasirildeen) in the deal with New York Jets. New England retained value by later including the sixth-round asset in the package used to move up for Dalton Keene. The pick therefore remained useful, though only as one component of a later move. That outcome supports a C+ for New England Patriots. The New York Jets Win verdict weighs documented games, starts, production and connected draft value.

Houston Texans received Keion Crossen. Keion Crossen gave Houston two full seasons of defensive and special-teams work, including multiple starts in 2020, producing the more durable contribution. That result supports a B- grade for Houston Texans. The final verdict is Houston Texans Win, based on the documented service, durability, and value each club actually obtained from this exchange.

Buffalo Bills traded center Russell Bodine to New England for the 2020 sixth-round pick that became No. 207, Isaiah Hodgins. The Patriots released Bodine only days later and he never played a regular-season snap for them. Hodgins had a limited Buffalo role but still gave the Bills roster value from an asset they acquired for a player New England immediately discarded, earning Buffalo a B-.

Denver Broncos received Duke Dawson; 2020 7th round pick (237th overall subsequently traded, Thakarius Keyes) in the exchange with New England Patriots. Duke Dawson appeared in 26 Denver games with four starts, and the Broncos also received a seventh-round selection that retained some downstream value. Against New England Patriots' return of 2020 6th round pick (195th overall, Justin Herron), that outcome supports a C+ grade. The transaction is judged as New England Patriots Win, with the mark based on the football value that actually followed from the deal.

Baltimore received New England's 2020 fourth-round choice, which ultimately became the No. 129 slot before being moved again. That was the most valuable single piece in the transaction and gave the Ravens stronger draft capital to work with. That result supports a B- grade within the Baltimore Ravens Win verdict.

Arizona received the 2020 sixth-round pick at No. 202 and selected Evan Weaver. Arizona received the 2020 sixth-round pick at No. 202 and used it on Evan Weaver. Weaver did not produce regular-season value for the Cardinals, so the draft return never translated into an on-field payoff. The pick had theoretical value on the day of the trade, but its realized return was minimal. In hindsight, that result supports a D+ grade for Arizona Cardinals in a deal ultimately judged as New England Patriots Win.

Seattle acquired tight end Jacob Hollister from New England on April 29, 2019 for a 2020 seventh-round pick. Hollister became a useful receiving option, catching 66 passes for 558 yards and six touchdowns across the next two Seahawks seasons. New England later included pick No. 241 with Rob Gronkowski’s rights in the 2020 Tampa Bay trade, so the Patriots did recover transactional value from the selection.

Minnesota moved from pick No. 159 to No. 162 in the 2019 draft and added No. 239, selecting Cameron Smith and Dillon Mitchell. New England used No. 159 on defensive tackle Byron Cowart. Cowart played 19 games for the Patriots and started 14 in 2020, while Minnesota received limited football value from its two selections. New England won the small draft-day exchange.

New England Patriots received 2019 5th round pick (163rd overall, Jake Bailey) in the 2019-04-27 exchange with Philadelphia Eagles. Jake Bailey became a Pro Bowl and first-team All-Pro punter for New England, giving the Patriots unusually strong realized value from a fifth-round selection. The direct package is the basis for the hindsight grade, with later movement of an acquired selection treated separately. That supports New England Patriots Win.

Los Angeles sent two fifth-round picks to New England for No. 134 and No. 243, selecting Greg Gaines and Nick Scott. Both became meaningful contributors, and each played a role on the Rams' Super Bowl LVI championship team. New England moved the two fifth-rounders onward, but the Rams' direct conversion of the acquired picks into two useful defenders creates a clear advantage.

Chicago moved from No. 87 to No. 73 in the 2019 draft for David Montgomery and also received pick No. 205, used on Duke Shelley. Montgomery became the Bears’ lead back for four seasons, topping 800 rushing yards every year and producing more than 4,800 yards from scrimmage in Chicago. New England received Damien Harris plus additional draft capital, making the price meaningful but still worthwhile for the Bears.

New England sent picks No. 56 and No. 101 to the Rams to move up to No. 45 for cornerback Joejuan Williams. Los Angeles immediately moved No. 56 to Kansas City and ultimately turned the trade chain into additional selections, including safety Taylor Rapp, who became a starter on the Super Bowl LVI champions. Williams never became a comparable Patriots starter, giving the Rams the stronger return.

New England traded pick No. 64 to Seattle for Nos. 77 and 118, which became Chase Winovich and Hjalte Froholdt. Winovich supplied some early pass-rush production and Froholdt later developed elsewhere, but neither became a lasting Patriots fixture. The player Seattle selected at No. 64, D.K. Metcalf, became a franchise-level receiver and creates a wide value gap.

Philadelphia sent veteran defensive end Michael Bennett and a 2020 seventh-round pick to New England for a 2020 fifth-round selection. The Eagles eventually used the fifth-rounder on wide receiver John Hightower, who provided limited NFL production. Philadelphia improved its draft position while moving an older, relatively expensive defender, but the resulting player return remained modest rather than developing into a major long-term asset.

Cleveland received the 2019 fifth-round pick at No. 170 and selected kicker Austin Seibert. Seibert gave the Browns a solid rookie season in 2019, but his Cleveland tenure lasted only one full year before he was waived early in 2020. The return was useful but short-lived, leaving Cleveland behind New England's more substantial receiving production from Josh Gordon.

Atlanta acquired safety Jordan Richards from New England for a 2020 seventh-round pick. Atlanta acquired safety Jordan Richards and immediately received meaningful short-term usage. Richards appeared in fifteen games and started twelve for the Falcons in 2018, giving the club a substantial amount of playable depth from a modest acquisition. For a seventh-round-equivalent cost, that single season of starts was a useful return. In hindsight, that result supports a B- grade for Atlanta Falcons in a deal ultimately judged as Atlanta Falcons Win.

Cleveland Browns received 2018 4th round pick (105th overall, Antonio Callaway) in the 2018-04-28 exchange with New England Patriots. Antonio Callaway gave Cleveland immediate receiving production as a rookie, but his Browns tenure was brief and did not develop into durable long-term value. The direct package is the basis for the hindsight grade, with later movement of an acquired selection treated separately. That supports Even Trade.

Detroit sent New England a 2019 third-round pick in exchange for the No. 114 pick in the 2018 draft, which the Lions used on defensive lineman Da'Shawn Hand. Detroit used No. 114 on Da'Shawn Hand, who had a promising rookie season but struggled to stay healthy and never became a long-term fixture. New England received a 2019 third-round pick, preserving future draft value but ultimately moving that selection again. Neither side converted the exchange into a lasting cornerstone, leaving the realized return close enough for an even verdict.

Kansas City sent New England picks No. 233 and No. 243 to move up to No. 198 and select Kahlil McKenzie. Kansas City surrendered two seventh-round picks to move up for Kahlil McKenzie, a college defensive lineman the Chiefs converted to guard. McKenzie never became a regular-season contributor for Kansas City. New England used one acquired pick on Keion Crossen, who contributed on special teams and later brought additional value in a trade, while the other pick was moved again. The Patriots realized more.

New England sent the 233rd pick in the 2018 draft to Philadelphia for pick No. 250 and a 2019 seventh-rounder. The Patriots received two late lottery tickets and used the 2018 choice on Ryan Izzo, but the Eagles used No. 233 on Jordan Mailata. Mailata's development into a long-term starting left tackle creates an enormous hindsight gap in Philadelphia's favor.

Chicago Bears received 2018 2nd round pick (51st overall, Anthony Miller) in the 2018-04-27 exchange with New England Patriots. Anthony Miller became a useful receiving option in Chicago, but he never developed into the kind of long-term difference-maker that would erase the cost of moving both a current fourth-rounder and a future second-rounder. The direct return and the football value it produced drive the hindsight judgment. Against the assets Chicago Bears surrendered, the result supports New England Patriots Win and a C grade for Chicago Bears.

Detroit moved from No. 51 to No. 43 in the 2018 second round, sending New England picks No. 51 and No. 117 to select running back Kerryon Johnson. Kerryon Johnson flashed as a rookie and topped 1,000 scrimmage yards in 2018, but injuries limited his Detroit tenure and he was gone after three seasons. New England turned the two selections into additional draft capital rather than one long-term star, giving the Patriots broader value and the better risk-adjusted return.

San Francisco sent tackle Trent Brown and 2018 fifth-round No. 143 to New England for 2018 third-round No. 95. The 49ers used No. 95 on Tarvarius Moore, while New England gained a starting left tackle for its Super Bowl LIII run and selected Ja'Whaun Bentley at No. 143. The Patriots received the stronger combined return.

Tampa Bay moved down seven spots in the second round, sending No. 56 to New England for Nos. 63 and 117. The Buccaneers selected Carlton Davis and Jordan Whitehead, two defensive starters who later played major roles on the 2020 Super Bowl championship team. New England used No. 56 on Duke Dawson, who never played a regular-season game for the Patriots before being traded to Denver.

Los Angeles sent first- and sixth-round picks to New England for Brandin Cooks and a fourth-rounder. Cooks immediately delivered 1,204 receiving yards for a Rams team that reached Super Bowl LIII, then was traded to Houston two years later for a second-round pick. New England used No. 23 on Isaiah Wynn, a capable but injury-limited lineman. Both clubs extracted meaningful value, making an even grade more fitting than a Patriots win.

Oakland received No. 159 in the 2018 draft and subsequently moved that selection again. Daurice Fountain was chosen only after the pick left Oakland, so his career does not count as direct Raiders value from this deal. The Raiders retained a tradable draft asset, but they did not realize a player contribution from the original exchange comparable to New England's return.

Cleveland traded Jason McCourty and 2018 seventh-round No. 219 to New England for 2018 sixth-round No. 205. The Patriots used No. 219 on Danny Etling, but McCourty was the decisive asset, becoming an important starter on the Super Bowl LIII championship team. Cleveland's incoming pick moved again later, leaving New England with the clear hindsight advantage.

Cleveland Browns and New England Patriots completed this exchange on 2018-03-14. Cleveland received a future third-round pick, while New England received Danny Shelton and a fifth-round selection. Both teams realized usable value, but Cleveland's stronger future draft asset creates the slight hindsight edge. The final grades are C+ for Cleveland and C for New England, producing a Cleveland Browns Win verdict.

New England Patriots New England received the 2018 second-round pick at No. 43. The Patriots multiplied that asset through later draft-day movement, preserving meaningful value even though the original selection was not used directly on one player. The supported hindsight grade is B-. That mark weighs only value tied directly to this transaction and keeps the result proportional to the deal's cost. Against San Francisco 49ers, the final verdict is San Francisco 49ers Win.

Detroit Lions received 2019 6th round pick (204th overall subsequently traded, Travis Homer) in the deal with New England Patriots. Detroit later packaged pick 204 with pick 88 to move to No. 81 for Will Harris. The late-round asset therefore helped the Lions reach a substantially higher draft slot with longer roster utility. That outcome supports a B+ for Detroit Lions. The Detroit Lions Win verdict weighs documented games, starts, production and connected draft value.

Indianapolis and New England swapped former high draft picks at roster cuts in 2017, with Jacoby Brissett going to the Colts and Phillip Dorsett to the Patriots. Brissett became Indianapolis' emergency starter almost immediately and ultimately made 30 starts across four seasons. Dorsett contributed as a rotational receiver for three New England seasons and earned a Super Bowl LIII ring, but Brissett delivered the larger team-specific role.

Seattle sent defensive end Cassius Marsh to New England on September 2, 2017 for 2018 fifth- and seventh-round picks. The fifth became tackle Jamarco Jones, while Seattle later included the seventh, No. 250, in the Michael Bennett trade with Philadelphia. Marsh lasted only nine games with New England before being waived in November, giving Seattle both the longer-lived asset value and the cleaner result.

Cincinnati traded linebacker Marquis Flowers to New England at the end of the 2017 preseason for a 2018 seventh-round pick. Flowers immediately became a useful Patriots reserve, playing all 16 games and recording 3.5 sacks before contributing during the team's run to Super Bowl LII. Cincinnati used pick No. 249 on quarterback Logan Woodside, but he never appeared in a regular-season game for the Bengals.

Dallas Cowboys received 2017 6th round pick (216th overall, Marquez White); 2017 7th round pick (239th overall, Noah Brown) in the 2017-04-29 exchange with New England Patriots. Noah Brown developed into a long-running NFL receiver with significant starting work and more than 2,000 career receiving yards, creating the clearest value in Dallas' two-pick return. The direct return and the football value it produced drive the hindsight judgment. Against the assets Dallas Cowboys surrendered, the result supports Dallas Cowboys Win and a B grade for Dallas Cowboys.

Kansas City sent tight end James O'Shaughnessy and pick No. 216 to New England for pick No. 183 in 2017, then selected linebacker Ukeme Eligwe. Eligwe appeared in 14 games with one start as a Chiefs rookie and recorded a sack. New England waived O'Shaughnessy and Conor McDermott, the player it later moved up to select with the pick path involving No. 216, before either played a regular-season snap for the Patriots.

Tennessee moved up to No. 72 in the 2017 draft and also received pick No. 200, sending New England picks No. 83 and No. 124. The Titans selected receiver Taywan Taylor at No. 72, and he produced 53 catches for 697 yards and two touchdowns over his Tennessee tenure. New England chose Derek Rivers at No. 83 and later used No. 124 in another trade, but received little direct on-field value.

New England moved up to No. 85 in the 2017 draft for tackle Antonio Garcia, sending Detroit picks No. 96 and No. 124. Garcia never appeared in a regular-season game for the Patriots. Detroit used the selections on Kenny Golladay and Jalen Reeves-Maybin. Golladay became a Pro Bowl receiver and league touchdown leader, while Reeves-Maybin developed into a long-tenured linebacker and elite special-teams contributor.

Carolina moved down only eight spots, sending Kony Ealy and pick No. 72 to New England for pick No. 64. The Panthers used No. 64 on Taylor Moton, who became a durable long-term starting right tackle. New England released Ealy before the 2017 season and later traded pick No. 72. The Panthers turned a modest move up the board into one of the franchise's most dependable offensive linemen.

New Orleans sent Brandin Cooks and a fourth-round pick to New England for the final first-round pick and a third-rounder. The Saints drafted Ryan Ramczyk and Trey Hendrickson, landing an All-Pro right tackle and a pass rusher who broke out with 13.5 sacks in 2020. New England still received 1,082 yards from Cooks and later flipped him for a first-round pick, making this a strong transaction for both clubs.

New England acquired tight end Dwayne Allen and pick No. 200 from Indianapolis for the 137th pick in the 2017 draft. Allen spent two seasons with the Patriots, appearing in 29 regular-season games and serving primarily as a blocking tight end on teams that reached consecutive Super Bowls and won Super Bowl LIII. Indianapolis selected Zach Banner at No. 137 but waived him before he played a regular-season game for the Colts.

New England traded Jamie Collins during a championship season rather than carry an approaching free-agent negotiation into the offseason. The Patriots received a 2017 third-round selection and proved they could absorb the football loss, winning Super Bowl LI without him. Collins was a talented and versatile defender, so the move looked risky in real time. In hindsight, New England converted an expiring asset into draft value without damaging its title run.

Denver Broncos received A.J. Derby. Denver received tight end A.J. Derby and used him as an immediate offensive piece after the October 2016 trade. Derby gave the Broncos some short-term receiving value, but he did not become a long-term core player. Denver surrendered a future fifth-round choice, so the direct return was useful without becoming especially valuable in hindsight. That result supports a C+ grade for Denver Broncos.

Detroit traded Kyle Van Noy and a 2017 seventh-round pick to New England for a 2017 sixth-rounder that became Brad Kaaya. Van Noy quickly found a larger role in the Patriots defense, became a multi-year starter and contributed to championship teams. Kaaya never became a Detroit solution, and the Lions received essentially no lasting return. New England's acquisition became a textbook fit-and-development success.

Philadelphia moved Eric Rowe after one season and recovered a 2018 fourth-round pick for a cornerback who had fallen down the new coaching staff's depth chart. The return was respectable for a player whose Eagles role had evaporated. Rowe's immediate usefulness in New England, though, including seven regular-season starts during a Super Bowl championship season, makes the Patriots the better side in hindsight.

Cleveland Browns received 2017 5th round pick (175th overall subsequently traded, DeAngelo Yancey) in the deal with New England Patriots. Cleveland later used pick 175 with another fifth-rounder to move up and also acquire a seventh-rounder. Matthew Dayes then gave the Browns a full season of return and special-teams work. That outcome supports a C+ for Cleveland Browns. The Even Trade verdict weighs documented games, starts, production and connected draft value.

Miami sent No. 147 to New England for Nos. 196, 204 and 250. The Dolphins used No. 204 on Jordan Lucas and recycled the other choices through later moves, including a separate trade that helped them reach Jakeem Grant. New England immediately packaged No. 147 with No. 243 to Seattle and ultimately obtained the future fourth-round pick used on Deatrich Wise Jr., a long-term Patriots defender. New England's downstream return lasted longer.

New England Patriots received 2016 7th round pick (225th overall, Devin Lucien) and 2017 4th round pick (131st overall, Deatrich Wise) in the 2016-04-30 exchange with Seattle Seahawks. Deatrich Wise developed into a long-tenured Patriots defensive lineman with substantial games, sacks and championship-era value. That gives New England Patriots the stronger overall return.

New Orleans traded picks No. 78 and 112 to New England for No. 61 and selected safety Vonn Bell. Bell immediately became a major defensive contributor, appearing in 61 games with 45 starts over four Saints seasons. The move worked. It simply ran into an exceptional Patriots return, because New England turned the two selections into Joe Thuney and Malcolm Mitchell.

New England acquired Martellus Bennett and a sixth-round pick from Chicago for a fourth-round selection. Bennett caught 55 passes for 701 yards and seven touchdowns in 2016, then became especially important after Rob Gronkowski was lost for the season and contributed throughout the Patriots' Super Bowl LI run. Chicago used the fourth-rounder on Deiondre' Hall, who made only a limited impact. New England won comfortably.

Arizona acquired Chandler Jones from New England for guard Jonathan Cooper and the 61st pick in the 2016 draft. Jones became one of the Cardinals' best pass rushers, recording 71.5 sacks in six seasons. New England later traded the second-rounder and turned the return into picks used on Joe Thuney and Malcolm Mitchell, creating substantial value of its own.

Chicago traded linebacker Jon Bostic to New England in September 2015 for a 2016 sixth-round pick, No. 204. Chicago later moved that selection again before Miami ultimately used it on Jordan Lucas, so Lucas is downstream history rather than a Bears draft result. Bostic’s Patriots stay was brief, giving Chicago a small value edge for recovering usable draft capital.

Houston sent wide receiver Keshawn Martin and its 2016 sixth-round pick No. 196 to New England for the Patriots' 2016 fifth-round pick No. 166. The Texans used No. 166 on D.J. Reader, who developed into the best long-term NFL player tied directly to the exchange. Martin offered New England short-term depth, but Reader's sustained interior-line value gives Houston the clear hindsight edge.

Green Bay traded picks No. 166 and 247 to New England to move up to No. 147 for quarterback Brett Hundley. Hundley eventually started nine games during Aaron Rodgers' 2017 injury but went 3-6 and never became a long-term Packers answer. New England used No. 166 on long snapper Joe Cardona, who became a decade-long specialist and part of two Super Bowl championship teams. That longevity gives the Patriots the win.

Cleveland Browns received 2015 3rd round pick (96th overall, Xavier Cooper) and 2015 7th round pick (219th overall, Hayes Pullard) in the 2015-05-01 exchange with New England Patriots. Xavier Cooper and Hayes Pullard did not become lasting Browns cornerstones, limiting the realized return from Cleveland's two selections. The stronger overall return belongs to New England Patriots.

Houston acquired quarterback Ryan Mallett from New England on August 31, 2014 for a conditional late-round selection that ultimately became the 2016 seventh-round No. 243 pick. Mallett made several starts for the Texans before his 2015 release. The tenure was brief and uneven, but Houston received actual quarterback use for a very small price, giving the Texans a modest edge.

Tampa Bay acquired decorated guard Logan Mankins to stabilize a rebuilt offensive line, and Mankins gave the Buccaneers two seasons of durable starting play with two Pro Bowl selections before retiring. New England received tight end Tim Wright and a fourth-round pick that became Trey Flowers. Wright scored six touchdowns for the 2014 champions, while Flowers developed into a starting edge defender on two more Super Bowl-winning teams. Both sides benefited, but New England created the stronger long-term return.

Green Bay sent Jerel Worthy to New England in August 2014 for a conditional 2015 draft choice. Worthy did not make the Patriots' opening roster, and the pick did not convey. The Packers moved on from a former second-round selection but received no draft compensation, leaving little realized value to reward in this particular exchange.

Jacksonville moved up for Brandon Linder and landed an eight-year offensive-line cornerstone who started 88 games and became a five-time team captain. New England received Bryan Stork and Jon Halapio. Stork delivered immediate value as the starting center for a Super Bowl champion, but his Patriots tenure was brief. Linder’s much longer run of high-level starting value gives Jacksonville the stronger return.

Philadelphia sent defensive tackle Isaac Sopoaga and a 2014 sixth-round pick to New England for a 2014 fifth-rounder at the trade deadline. Sopoaga played only six regular-season games for the Patriots and was released the following March. The Eagles then used acquired pick No. 169 to trade for Darren Sproles, who became a Pro Bowl returner and major offensive weapon in Philadelphia. That downstream conversion creates a decisive Eagles win.

New England acquired LeGarrette Blount from Tampa Bay during the 2013 draft for Jeff Demps and seventh-round pick No. 229. Blount became a major contributor across multiple Patriots seasons and playoff runs, including championship teams. The Buccaneers did not receive comparable value from Demps or the pick. New England turned a modest package into substantial production and earns a decisive hindsight win.

Minnesota traded four selections to New England for pick No. 29 and selected Cordarrelle Patterson. Patterson became an elite return specialist immediately and earned multiple All-Pro honors, but he never developed into a consistent featured receiver during four Vikings seasons. New England used the premium picks on Jamie Collins and Logan Ryan, both major defensive contributors to championship teams, plus Josh Boyce and another late selection. The Patriots converted quantity into higher overall value.

New England acquired Aqib Talib and 2013 pick No. 226 from Tampa Bay for 2013 pick No. 126. Talib immediately upgraded the Patriots' secondary, returned in 2013, made the Pro Bowl and helped New England reach consecutive AFC title games. Tampa Bay used No. 126 on William Gholston, who became a remarkably durable Buccaneers defensive lineman and later a Super Bowl champion. Elite short-term impact versus exceptional longevity makes this even.

The Rams received a future seventh-round selection, ultimately tied to the 2015 No. 249 slot, after sending Greg Salas to New England. St. Louis preserved transferable draft value from a player who contributed almost nothing for the Patriots, giving the Rams a small edge. That outcome supports a C+ grade for Los Angeles Rams within the final Los Angeles Rams Win verdict.

Green Bay sent three late-round picks to New England to move up for linebacker Terrell Manning at No. 163 in 2012. Manning barely contributed for the Packers, while the Patriots turned the return into Nate Ebner, Alfonzo Dennard and Jeremy Ebert. Ebner became a long-tenured special teams player and Dennard supplied useful defensive snaps. New England extracted substantially more value from the late-round bundle and wins the trade.

Green Bay traded picks No. 90 and No. 163 to New England for No. 62 and selected Casey Hayward. Hayward intercepted six passes as a rookie and became a high-level Packers defensive back before later earning Pro Bowls elsewhere. New England selected Jake Bequette and then flipped No. 163 for Nate Ebner, Alfonzo Dennard and Jeremy Ebert. The Patriots recovered useful depth, but Hayward was the best direct outcome.

New England moved from No. 27 to No. 21 for Chandler Jones, giving Cincinnati the No. 93 pick as the premium. Jones produced 36 sacks in four Patriots seasons and contributed to the Super Bowl XLIX championship before being traded in 2016. The return from that later trade helped New England acquire Joe Thuney and Malcolm Mitchell. Cincinnati still landed long-term starting guard Kevin Zeitler plus Brandon Thompson, making this a rare draft trade with major value on both sides.

New England paid picks No. 31 and No. 126 to climb six spots for Dont'a Hightower, while Denver immediately recycled both acquired choices in its next draft-night move. Hightower became a championship-era defensive leader and one of New England's defining postseason performers. Denver still extracted useful value from the trade chain, but the Patriots landed the singular player whose impact lasted through multiple Super Bowl runs.

Cincinnati traded veteran receiver Chad Johnson to New England in 2011 for fifth- and sixth-round picks that became Marvin Jones and Cobi Hamilton. Johnson caught only 15 passes for 276 yards and one touchdown in his lone Patriots season before being released. Jones developed into a productive starting receiver for Cincinnati and later enjoyed a long NFL career. The Bengals turned an aging star into a younger impact player and won decisively.

New England Patriots acquired Albert Haynesworth from Washington for the 2013 fifth-round pick that became No. 162, Brandon Jenkins. Haynesworth's stay in New England was short and unproductive, so the Patriots did not receive the hoped-for rebound from the veteran defensive lineman. Because they surrendered a real draft asset for little return, New England receives a D+.

Philadelphia and New England swapped adjacent sixth-round picks, with the Eagles moving from No. 194 to No. 193 for linebacker Brian Rolle. Rolle immediately started 13 games as a rookie and recorded 58 tackles across two Philadelphia seasons. Markell Carter, selected one spot later by New England, never appeared in a regular-season NFL game, giving the Eagles a modest but clear win.

Houston moved up to pick No. 60 for cornerback Brandon Harris, sending New England picks No. 73 and No. 138. The Patriots selected running back Stevan Ridley and tackle Marcus Cannon. Ridley produced a 1,200-yard rushing season and multiple productive years, while Cannon became a long-term offensive lineman and championship contributor. Harris never established a comparable role in Houston, making this one of New England's strongest move-down outcomes.

Oakland sent New England a 2011 seventh-round pick and a 2012 second-rounder for picks 92 and 125 in 2011. The Raiders selected Joe Barksdale and Taiwan Jones; New England later used the future second on Tavon Wilson. Jones became a durable special teams player, while Barksdale's best starting years came after leaving Oakland. Wilson gave the Patriots useful defensive and special teams snaps. The results are close enough to remain essentially even.

New Orleans traded its 2011 second-round pick and 2012 first-round pick to New England for No. 28, using it on running back Mark Ingram. Ingram became the Saints' all-time rushing leader and a three-time Pro Bowler. New England got productive back Shane Vereen and later used the future first as part of the move up for pass rusher Chandler Jones. Both teams created substantial value, making this a rare trade that aged well for each side.

Seattle sent Deion Branch back to New England for a 2011 fourth-round pick and used No. 99 on K.J. Wright. Branch immediately helped the Patriots, producing 706 yards and five touchdowns in 11 games in 2010 and another 702 yards in 2011. Wright became a decade-long Seattle starter, Pro Bowler and Super Bowl champion. New England received meaningful short-term value, but Seattle turned an aging receiver into a franchise defensive fixture.

Minnesota reunited Randy Moss with Brett Favre in a win-now move, sending New England a 2011 third-round pick while receiving Moss and a 2012 seventh-rounder. The reunion lasted only four games: Moss caught 13 passes for 174 yards and two touchdowns before the Vikings waived him. New England used pick No. 74 on Ryan Mallett and avoided losing Moss for nothing after the season. The Patriots clearly won despite modest production from Mallett.

Denver acquired running back Laurence Maroney and New England's 2011 sixth-round pick for the Broncos' 2011 fourth-round selection. Maroney contributed little in Denver, while the sixth-rounder became Mike Mohamed. New England later moved the fourth-round asset, which ultimately became pick No. 99 and was used on K.J. Wright after another transaction. The Patriots clearly won the value exchange by turning a declining back into stronger draft capital.

Kansas City traded safety Jarrad Page to New England for a 2012 seventh-round pick that became Junior Hemingway. Page spent only one season with the Patriots and made a handful of starts. Hemingway developed into a three-year Chiefs receiver and special-teams contributor, appearing in more than 30 games. Neither side gained a major player, but Kansas City received the longer team-specific contribution from a low-cost future pick.

New England acquired linebacker Tracy White and Philadelphia's 2012 seventh-round pick for a 2012 sixth-rounder. White became a core special-teams contributor, played every game in 2010 and 2011, and even started Super Bowl XLVI. The Patriots also reused the seventh-round choice in the earlier Randy Moss trade chain, while Philadelphia's No. 200 selection, Brandon Washington, never played a regular-season game for the Eagles.

Atlanta Falcons traded reserve lineman Quinn Ojinnaka to New England for the 2011 seventh-round pick that became No. 230, Cliff Matthews. Ojinnaka appeared in only eight games with no starts for the Patriots, while Matthews became a multi-season depth defensive lineman in Atlanta. Turning a reserve player into several years of roster utility gives the Falcons a B- and the win.

Washington sent pick No. 208 to New England for selections No. 229 and No. 231 in the 2010 draft. The Commanders selected Erik Cook and Selvish Capers, while the Patriots used No. 208 on Thomas Welch. None of the three linemen became a durable starter for the club that drafted him, leaving the direct football returns similarly limited.

Carolina wanted Appalachian State star Armanti Edwards badly enough to surrender its 2011 second-round pick for New England's No. 89 selection in 2010. Edwards never found a stable offensive role and finished his Panthers tenure primarily as a returner with minimal scrimmage production. New England used the future pick at No. 33 on Ras-I Dowling, whose career was also derailed by injuries. Both selections disappointed, but New England still gained more draft value and deserves the slight edge.

Arizona traded picks No. 58 and No. 89 to New England for No. 47 and selected linebacker Daryl Washington. Washington started 53 games in four seasons, made the 2012 Pro Bowl and produced 18 sacks before suspensions ended his Arizona career. New England later turned the two picks into Brandon Spikes, Zoltan Mesko and a future second-rounder, creating useful depth but not matching Washington's peak impact.

Houston moved from No. 62 to No. 58 and selected running back Ben Tate, while New England received No. 62 and a fifth-rounder used on Brandon Spikes and Zoltan Mesko. Tate became a productive complement to Arian Foster and rushed for 1,992 yards in three Texans seasons. Spikes started regularly and Mesko handled punting duties for three years, giving New England a slightly broader return.

New England moved up only two spots, surrendering No. 44 and a sixth-rounder to Oakland for No. 42, then selected Rob Gronkowski. Oakland landed defensive lineman Lamarr Houston, a four-year starter who produced 16.5 sacks for the Raiders, plus linebacker Travis Goethel. That is respectable value, but Gronkowski became one of the defining tight ends in NFL history and a cornerstone of three Patriots championship teams, making New England the overwhelming winner.

Dallas moved from No. 27 to No. 24 in the 2010 draft and selected Dez Bryant. Bryant became the franchise's career leader in receiving touchdowns and a three-time Pro Bowler. New England moved down, added a third-round selection and drafted Devin McCourty at No. 27. McCourty became a longtime captain and a core member of three Super Bowl championship teams.

Denver moved from No. 24 to No. 22 and selected Demaryius Thomas, who became a five-time Pro Bowler and a central player on a Super Bowl champion. New England received No. 24 and No. 113, using the latter on Aaron Hernandez and the former in the next trade-down that helped produce Devin McCourty. Both teams created cornerstone value.

New England acquired linebacker Prescott Burgess from Baltimore for a conditional 2010 seventh-round pick. Burgess was inactive for his only Patriots game and was waived six days after the trade, so the condition was not satisfied and Baltimore received no draft compensation. Burgess soon returned to the Ravens, leaving little lasting value for either club.

Oakland acquired Richard Seymour from New England for its 2011 first-round pick. Seymour gave the Raiders four productive seasons, made two Pro Bowls in Oakland and supplied veteran credibility to an improving defensive front. New England waited two years and used the 17th overall pick on Nate Solder, a seven-year Patriots starter who helped win two Super Bowls, giving the Patriots the stronger long-term value without making Oakland's gamble a failure.

New Orleans acquired tight end David Thomas from New England for a conditional 2011 draft choice that ultimately became the 189th pick in the sixth round. Thomas played 48 games with 25 starts for the Saints and contributed as a versatile receiver and in-line tight end on the Super Bowl XLIV champion. New England later reused the pick, but Thomas' four useful Saints seasons create the stronger return.

New England Patriots received Michael Matthews; New York Giants received conditional 2011 pick that did not convey. Matthews appeared in four games for New England without a start or reception. The Giants' conditional 2011 pick did not convey, leaving New York without a realized draft asset. The realized outcomes support New England Patriots Win, with New England Patriots graded C+ and New York Giants graded C.

Denver acquired veteran offensive lineman Russ Hochstein from New England on August 25, 2009 for a 2010 seventh-round pick. Hochstein became useful interior depth immediately, playing 46 games with 16 starts for the Broncos from 2009 through 2011. New England re-acquired pick No. 231, later packaged it with another seventh-rounder to move up for tackle Thomas Welch, who eventually played three games with one start for the Patriots.

Denver acquired defensive lineman Le Kevin Smith and New England's 2010 seventh-round pick for the Broncos' 2010 fifth-round choice. Smith appeared in 15 games with two starts for Denver in 2009, providing immediate rotational depth, while New England gained the more valuable draft selection. The fifth-rounder was later moved again. With modest player production on one side and modest draft leverage on the other, the trade finishes even.

New England acquired Derrick Burgess for two 2010 picks: No. 85 in the third round and conditional No. 158 in the fifth. Burgess gave the Patriots 16 games, six starts and five sacks in 2009. Oakland converted No. 85 into Kamerion Wimbley and No. 158 into Quentin Groves; the two linebackers combined for 63 Raiders games and 47 starts. That downstream return gives Oakland the stronger result.

New England acquired tight end Alex Smith for a 2010 fifth-round pick, but Smith was released at final cuts and never played a regular-season game for the Patriots. Tampa Bay's pick became No. 153; the Buccaneers packaged it with No. 42 to move to No. 39 for Arrelious Benn. Benn started 24 games and caught 59 passes for 862 yards and five touchdowns for Tampa Bay, giving the Buccaneers the clear edge.

Jacksonville paid pick No. 232 and a 2010 second-rounder to move up for cornerback Derek Cox at No. 73. Cox became a four-year starter and intercepted 12 passes for the Jaguars, so Jacksonville received solid value. New England selected Julian Edelman at No. 232 and later used the future second-rounder in the move that produced Rob Gronkowski, giving the Patriots a historically superior return.

New England and Baltimore swapped four selections during the 2009 draft. The Patriots received Nos. 123 Rich Ohrnberger and 198 Jake Ingram, while the Ravens received Nos. 137 Jason Phillips and 141. None of the direct selections became a major long-term value driver for the team that acquired it, keeping the exchange close to even.

Tennessee sent its 2010 second-round pick to New England for No. 89 in 2009 and selected tight end Jared Cook. Cook developed into a productive four-year Titans target with 1,717 receiving yards. New England later moved the future No. 47 pick to Arizona, beginning a chain that produced Brandon Spikes, Zoltan Mesko and another future second-rounder.

Philadelphia acquired cornerback Ellis Hobbs from New England for picks No. 137 and No. 141. Hobbs started eight games in 2009, returned a kickoff for a touchdown and remained part of the Eagles secondary until a neck injury ended his 2010 season. New England immediately flipped the two fifth-rounders to Baltimore for Rich Ohrnberger and Jake Ingram. The Patriots found some depth, but Hobbs provided the stronger direct contribution.

Green Bay traded picks No. 41, 73 and 83 to New England for No. 26 and No. 162, then selected Clay Matthews and Jamon Meredith. Matthews became a six-time Pro Bowler, first-team All-Pro and one of the defining defenders of the Packers' Super Bowl XLV era. New England received Darius Butler, Brandon Tate and valuable maneuvering room from No. 73, but nothing in the return matched Matthews.

Baltimore moved from No. 26 to No. 23 in the 2009 draft and selected tackle Michael Oher, who started every regular-season game across five Ravens seasons and contributed to the Super Bowl XLVII championship team. New England received picks No. 26 and No. 162, then immediately converted them into a broader pool of selections that supported several later roster moves.

Oakland moved down from No. 40 to No. 47 and received fourth- and sixth-round picks from New England. The Raiders selected safety Mike Mitchell, receiver Louis Murphy and end Stryker Sulak; Mitchell and Murphy both became useful NFL players, though Mitchell's best years came after leaving Oakland. New England stayed at No. 40 and chose defensive tackle Ron Brace, who played 39 games with seven career starts. Oakland received more aggregate football value and wins the deal.

Kansas City acquired Matt Cassel and Mike Vrabel from New England for the 34th pick in the 2009 draft. Cassel became a Pro Bowler while leading the 2010 Chiefs to an AFC West title, and Vrabel supplied two seasons of veteran leadership. New England used No. 34 on Patrick Chung, who became a long-term defensive starter and three-time Super Bowl champion with the Patriots, giving New England the stronger lasting return.

Los Angeles Chargers received 2008 3rd round pick (69th overall, Jacob Hester) in the 2008-04-27 exchange with New England Patriots. Jacob Hester became a useful role player for San Diego, but the cost included meaningful future draft capital. The direct package, rather than later movement of any acquired asset, is the basis for the hindsight judgment. Against what Los Angeles Chargers surrendered, the result supports New England Patriots Win.

New England traded picks No. 160 and No. 238 to Tampa Bay for No. 153 and selected Matthew Slater. Slater became one of the greatest special-teams players of his era, spending 16 seasons with the Patriots, winning three Super Bowls and earning 10 Pro Bowl selections. Tampa Bay drafted Josh Johnson and Cory Boyd; Johnson became a long-lived NFL backup, but his Buccaneers impact was modest and Boyd never played for Tampa Bay.

New Orleans traded picks 10 and 78 to New England for picks 7 and 164, selecting Sedrick Ellis and Carl Nicks. Ellis became a five-year starting defensive tackle, while Nicks developed into a first-team All-Pro guard and Super Bowl champion. New England drafted Jerod Mayo, a Defensive Rookie of the Year and All-Pro linebacker, plus Shawn Crable. Both clubs found premium starters, making this a genuine win-win.

On 2007-08-07, Chicago Bears received undisclosed 2008 draft pick, while New England Patriots received Dante Wesley. The hindsight verdict is Even Trade, with Chicago Bears graded C and New England Patriots graded C. The evaluation credits only the consideration that can be traced confidently and keeps uncertain pick details out of the final judgment.

New England's trade for Randy Moss became one of the greatest low-cost star acquisitions in NFL history. The Patriots gave up a fourth-round pick and received a future Hall of Fame receiver who immediately transformed their offense. Oakland moved a frustrated player. New England added a record-setting weapon. The deal became legendary because Moss immediately looked nothing like a declining asset once he joined Tom Brady and the Patriots.

Oakland acquired pick No. 91 from New England and selected tackle Mario Henderson, sending the Patriots pick No. 211 plus a 2008 third-rounder that became No. 69. Henderson developed into a multi-year Raiders starter and gave Oakland useful offensive-line value. New England received little from Oscar Lua at No. 211 but later traded No. 69 for additional picks, including a 2009 second-rounder. One side gained a starter; the other gained valuable future flexibility.

San Francisco traded a 2007 fourth-rounder and its 2008 first-round pick to New England for No. 28, selecting left tackle Joe Staley. Staley became a six-time Pro Bowler and one of the defining 49ers of his era. New England turned the incoming picks into extraordinary downstream value, including the Randy Moss acquisition and draft capital that led to Jerod Mayo. Both teams won at an elite level.

New England sent Miami a second-round pick and a seventh-round pick for Wes Welker, then expanded a useful receiver and returner into one of the defining slot weapons of the era. Welker became a repeated 100-catch producer, a Pro Bowler, and a central target for Tom Brady. The Patriots paid meaningful draft capital, but the player's production and schematic fit overwhelmed the price and made the trade one of the dynasty era's clearest value wins.

Seattle ended Deion Branch's New England holdout by sending the Patriots a 2007 first-round pick, later used at No. 24 on safety Brandon Meriweather. Seattle got a proven receiver and meaningful production, so the deal was not a failure. The premium pick and Meriweather's value nevertheless gave New England the better long-term return.

Las Vegas Raiders received 2007 5th round pick (165th overall, Eric Frampton) in the exchange with New England Patriots. Oakland used the fifth-round selection on Frampton, but he did not become a Raiders regular-season contributor. The club recovered draft capital, though the direct result of that pick was limited. The D+ grade reflects the direct value Las Vegas Raiders realized from the deal, while the New England Patriots Win call weighs actual regular-season service and clearly connected draft value rather than name recognition alone.

New England Patriots agreed to send rookie running back Patrick Cobbs to Pittsburgh for a conditional 2007 fifth-round choice. Cobbs was waived by the Steelers roughly a week later, and the condition was not satisfied, so New England received no conveyed pick. With no lasting player or draft return produced by the agreement, the Patriots receive a D in an even low-value result.

Arizona Cardinals received Brandon Gorin. Brandon Gorin did not produce a Cardinals regular-season appearance before moving on, leaving Arizona without meaningful direct on-field value from the acquired veteran. That result supports a D grade for Arizona Cardinals. The final verdict is Even Trade, based on the documented service, durability, and value each club actually obtained from this exchange.

Cleveland acquired veteran guard Ross Tucker from New England, but released him before the 2006 regular season. Tucker therefore produced no games, starts, or production for the Browns. Because the draft compensation was conditional on an outcome that did not occur, Cleveland also did not ultimately surrender a conveyed pick.

New Orleans and New England swapped two former high draft picks who had fallen out of favor, with wide receiver Bethel Johnson going to the Saints and defensive tackle Johnathan Sullivan going to the Patriots. Because neither acquired player produced regular-season value for his new club, the fairest judgment is an even trade with poor grades on both sides.

Green Bay traded the 36th pick in the 2006 draft to New England for Nos. 52 and 75, then selected Greg Jennings and Jason Spitz. Jennings became a Pro Bowl-caliber receiver and key part of the Packers' championship offense, while Spitz started 45 games for Green Bay. New England used No. 36 on Chad Jackson, whose Patriots tenure was brief and limited.

New England acquired Andre Davis from Cleveland for a 2006 fifth-round pick that became No. 152, DeMario Minter. Davis produced nine receptions for 190 yards and a touchdown during the Patriots’ 2005 regular season, while Minter never appeared in an NFL regular-season game. The exact pick identity converts an otherwise vague exchange into a modest Patriots win: New England received usable receiver depth, while Cleveland’s draft return produced no on-field NFL value.

Detroit Lions received 2005 5th round pick (145th overall, Dan Orlovsky) and 2005 6th round pick (206th overall, Jonathan Goddard) in the 2005-04-24 exchange with New England Patriots. Dan Orlovsky supplied years of quarterback depth and spot-start value for Detroit; Jonathan Goddard added little. The direct package, rather than later movement of any acquired asset, is the basis for the hindsight judgment. Against what Detroit Lions surrendered, the result supports Detroit Lions Win.

Green Bay sent pick 175 to New England for picks 195 and 246, selecting Craig Bragg and Will Whitticker. Whitticker started as a rookie but did not develop into a lasting starter, while Bragg made little impact. New England immediately flipped pick 175 to Oakland for pick 230, used on Matt Cassel, plus a 2006 fifth-rounder, creating far greater downstream value.

Oakland used No. 175 on Anttaj Hawthorne, but the selection produced little meaningful Raiders value. Hawthorne did not become a substantial long-term contributor, leaving Oakland with a weak realized return from the exchange. Against New England's later starting-quarterback payoff and additional offensive-line service, the Raiders' side falls well short and warrants a poor hindsight grade.

Baltimore moved up to No. 64 for tackle Adam Terry, sending New England picks 84 and 195 in 2005 plus a 2006 third-rounder. Terry gave the Ravens several seasons of starting and reserve line play, so the move was not empty. New England landed starting corner Ellis Hobbs and retained additional draft capital that fed later trades, producing the stronger overall return.

New England acquired veteran corner Duane Starks and pick 145 from Arizona for picks 95 and 168. Starks started six games but struggled, landed on injured reserve and was released after one season. Arizona did not turn its two selections into stars, yet Darryl Blackstock supplied several seasons of linebacker depth, giving the Cardinals the better direct return from a deal that disappointed both sides.

On 2004-08-17, Chicago Bears received Quinn Dorsey, while New England Patriots received conditional draft pick (not conveyed). The hindsight verdict is Even Trade, with Chicago Bears graded C and New England Patriots graded C. The evaluation credits only the consideration that can be traced confidently and keeps uncertain pick details out of the final judgment.

Cincinnati traded Corey Dillon to New England for the 56th pick and selected safety Madieu Williams. Williams became an immediate starter, recorded three interceptions as a rookie and spent four productive seasons with the Bengals. The return was legitimate, especially after Dillon's relationship with Cincinnati had deteriorated, but the player Cincinnati surrendered immediately became the centerpiece of a Super Bowl champion's rushing attack.

On 2003-08-25, Chicago Bears received conditional future draft pick (not conveyed), while New England Patriots received Jamil Soriano. The hindsight verdict is Even Trade, with Chicago Bears graded C and New England Patriots graded C. The evaluation credits only the consideration that can be traced confidently and keeps uncertain pick details out of the final judgment.

New England acquired veteran nose tackle Ted Washington from Chicago in August 2003 for a 2004 fourth-round selection. Washington gave the Patriots the interior size they wanted for a championship run and contributed during the season that ended with a Super Bowl XXXVIII victory. Chicago converted an aging defender into future draft capital, but New England received the more immediate high-leverage football contribution.

New England Patriots received 2003 4th round pick (120th overall, Asante Samuel). New England used pick 120 on Asante Samuel, who became a championship contributor and multi-time Pro Bowl cornerback. That outcome turned a modest draft move into a major roster win. Compared with Denver Broncos' return, the result supports a A+ grade and fits the New England Patriots Win verdict.

New England sent Tennessee picks No. 154 and No. 225 in 2003 for selections No. 164, No. 201 and No. 243. The Patriots used the first acquired pick on center Dan Koppen, who started 120 regular-season games for New England and won two Super Bowls. Tennessee's return produced Donnie Nickey and Todd Williams, giving the Patriots a major advantage from a seemingly modest late-round shuffle.

New England traded the 50th overall pick to Carolina during the 2003 draft and moved up to No. 45, sending pick No. 120 with it. Carolina selected center Bruce Nelson at 50 and later used No. 120 in another move, while the Patriots chose wide receiver Bethel Johnson at 45 and eventually reacquired 120 to draft Asante Samuel. The Patriots' broader draft maneuvering produced the stronger value.

Chicago moved down one slot from No. 13 to No. 14 and also received No. 193. The Bears selected Michael Haynes at No. 14, but he played only 43 NFL games and made four starts; the sixth-round asset was later moved again. The return did not approach the sustained defensive value New England created with Ty Warren.

Baltimore traded a 2003 second-round pick and its 2004 first-rounder to New England to move up to No. 19 for quarterback Kyle Boller. Boller became a multi-year starter but never established himself as the long-term answer. New England later used Baltimore's 2004 first-round pick on Vince Wilfork, a franchise cornerstone, making the Patriots the decisive long-term winner of the exchange.

New England moved from pick 41 to 36 in the 2003 second round, sending Houston No. 41 and No. 75 for Nos. 36 and 117. The Patriots drafted Eugene Wilson at 36 and Dan Klecko at 117; Wilson became a starting defensive back on championship teams and Klecko provided useful depth. Houston selected Bennie Joppru and Seth Wand. The contrast in impact makes this a strong Patriots victory.

Miami acquired pick 78 in the 2003 draft from New England for its 2004 second-rounder, then selected offensive lineman Wade Smith. Smith gave the Dolphins limited early-career value before becoming a better player elsewhere. New England’s future pick became No. 56 and was traded to Cincinnati for Corey Dillon. Dillon immediately rushed for a franchise-record season and helped the Patriots win Super Bowl XXXIX, creating an overwhelming New England advantage.

New Orleans acquired safety Tebucky Jones from New England in April 2003 for third- and seventh-round picks that year plus a 2004 fourth-rounder. The Patriots expanded an already deep draft portfolio and ultimately tied the returned choices to Wade Smith, Tully Banta-Cain and Dexter Reid. Jones became a Saints starter, but New England's three-pick return created more roster flexibility and depth, giving the Patriots a narrow win.

Houston Texans received Greg Randall in the 2003-03-06 exchange involving New England Patriots. Randall started all 16 games at right tackle for Houston in 2003, delivering immediate lineup value from a fifth-round investment. That realized return supports a B- grade for Houston Texans. The overall verdict is Even Trade, with the grade based on direct value created from this transaction.

Washington and New England exchanged third-round positions in March 2003, with Washington receiving picks 81 and 140 for pick 75 and a 2004 fourth-rounder. Washington used No. 81 on Derrick Dockery, who became a durable multi-year starting guard. New England later used pick 75 in its move for Eugene Wilson and traded the 2004 fourth for veteran nose tackle Ted Washington.

The Rams acquired Grant Williams and received three seasons of useful offensive-line service. Williams appeared in 37 games with 14 starts for St. Louis from 2002 through 2004, giving the club dependable depth and occasional starting work. That direct on-field contribution was meaningful for the cost and ultimately exceeded the practical value New England realized after moving the acquired seventh-round selection again.

St. Louis acquired linebacker Kole Ayi from New England for an undisclosed 2003 draft pick. Ayi appeared in six games with no starts and recorded five tackles for the 2002 Rams before landing on injured reserve. The exact Patriots pick remains unidentified in the surviving evidence, so New England should receive credit only for obtaining draft capital. Neither side has enough traceable value to create a meaningful grade gap.

Buffalo acquired Drew Bledsoe from New England for its 2003 first-round pick, giving the Bills an established quarterback after Tom Brady had displaced him. Bledsoe immediately threw for 4,359 yards and reached the Pro Bowl, but Buffalo never made the playoffs during his three seasons. New England later used the acquired No. 14 pick as the key asset in moving up for defensive lineman Ty Warren.

Dallas Cowboys received 2002 5th round pick (168th overall, Pete Hunter) in the 2002-04-21 exchange with New England Patriots. Pete Hunter became the most meaningful direct player return from the exchange and gave Dallas useful defensive-back snaps after being selected at No. 168. The direct package is the basis for the hindsight grade, with later movement of an acquired selection treated separately. That supports Dallas Cowboys Win.

Denver moved down from pick No. 117 in the 2002 draft and received picks No. 131 and No. 144, which became Sam Brandon and Herb Haygood. Brandon supplied 63 games and 12 starts for the Broncos, giving Denver real roster value from the maneuver. Haygood added another controlled selection, so the combined return supports a B- grade and a narrow Denver win.

Washington sent the 21st pick in the 2002 draft to New England for picks 32, 96 and 234. Washington selected quarterback Patrick Ramsey at No. 32 and later moved No. 96 in another deal, while New England used No. 21 on tight end Daniel Graham. Ramsey showed flashes but never became a long-term starter; Graham became a dependable run-game contributor on championship teams, giving New England a narrow edge.

Green Bay acquired wide receiver Terry Glenn from New England in March 2002 for a 2002 fourth-round pick plus a conditional 2003 selection that ultimately conveyed as another fourth-rounder. Glenn gave the Packers one productive season with 56 catches for 817 yards and two touchdowns. New England turned the first pick into Jarvis Green and later used the conditional pick in the trade-up that produced Asante Samuel, creating greater long-term value.

Detroit Lions received 2001 5th round pick (149th overall, Mike McMahon) in the 2001-04-22 exchange with New England Patriots. Mike McMahon gave Detroit multiple seasons of quarterback depth and several starts, the clearest realized value in the exchange. The direct package, rather than later movement of any acquired asset, is the basis for the hindsight judgment. Against what Detroit Lions surrendered, the result supports Detroit Lions Win.

Los Angeles Chargers received 2001 4th round pick (112th overall, Carlos Polk) and 2001 5th round pick (139th overall, Zeke Moreno) in the 2001-04-22 exchange with New England Patriots. Carlos Polk and Zeke Moreno both supplied useful Chargers depth, giving San Diego two contributors from the direct return. The direct package, rather than later movement of any acquired asset, is the basis for the hindsight judgment. Against what Los Angeles Chargers surrendered, the result supports Los Angeles Chargers Win.

New England moved up two spots in the 2001 second round and selected tackle Matt Light, while Detroit turned the return into center Dominic Raiola and linebacker Jason Glenn. Light started 153 games and won three Super Bowls with New England. Raiola was also an exceptional long-term return, appearing in 219 games and starting 203. The Patriots win narrowly because Light paired elite durability with championship-level value.

Minnesota sent picks No. 86 and No. 119 to New England in the 2001 draft to move up to No. 69 for cornerback Eric Kelly. The Patriots selected cornerback Brock Williams and tight end Jabari Holloway. None became a major long-term starter, but New England’s two-player return gives the Patriots a narrow volume advantage.

Pittsburgh moved from No. 50 to No. 39 in the 2001 second round and selected linebacker Kendrell Bell. Bell played 90 NFL games and recorded 20.5 sacks, giving the Steelers an immediate productive defensive starter. New England received Nos. 50 and 112 and later used both selections in additional trades, preserving useful flexibility from the move down.

New England received San Francisco's 2001 sixth-round pick, preserving future draft value from a late-round swap. The Patriots later moved that selection in another transaction, so the later player outcome is not credited directly here. Compared with Tim Rattay's multi-season 49ers service and 16 starts, New England's direct return was less substantial.

New England acquired Bill Belichick's coaching rights from the Jets in January 2000. The Patriots gave New York the 16th pick in 2000 plus fourth- and seventh-round choices in 2001, while receiving a 2001 fifth-rounder and 2002 seventh-rounder with Belichick. He then coached New England for 24 seasons and won six Super Bowls. No draft compensation could match that organizational impact, making this an overwhelming Patriots win.

New England moved from No. 52 to No. 46 in the 1999 draft and selected Kevin Faulk, sending Tennessee picks 52 and 117. Faulk spent 13 seasons with the Patriots, gained more than 7,000 yards from scrimmage and won three Super Bowls. Tennessee used No. 52 on John Thornton, who also built a long and productive NFL career.

New England moved from No. 20 to No. 17 in the 1999 first round, sending Seattle a third-rounder and sixth-rounder to select center Damien Woody. Woody started immediately, became a Pro Bowler and won two Super Bowls with the Patriots before leaving after five seasons. Seattle's acquired picks became part of a chain that produced Lamar King, Floyd Wedderburn, Karsten Bailey and James Dearth, none matching Woody's impact.

Baltimore Ravens received Lovett Purnell. Baltimore received Lovett Purnell, who appeared in two games for the Ravens and provided a small but real regular-season return. That result supports a C- for Baltimore Ravens. The overall comparison favors Baltimore Ravens, which produced the stronger realized return. The grade reflects the realized player service and draft value tied directly to this transaction, without assigning extra credit for outcomes that cannot be traced confidently to the exchanged assets.

New England traded defensive end/linebacker Mike Jones to St. Louis on August 30, 1998 for a future draft choice that became the Rams' 2000 fifth-round pick, No. 161. The Patriots used it on Missouri defensive tackle Jeff Marriott, who was released before the 2000 regular season.

New England Patriots received 2000 7th round pick (212th overall subsequently traded, Tim Rattay) from Philadelphia Eagles, giving up Dietrich Jells. The conditional seventh-round return ultimately became 2000 selection No. 212. The return supports a C+ grade because the value directly tied to this deal fits that mark. The final verdict is New England Patriots Win.

Dallas acquired defensive lineman Artie Smith from New England for past considerations in August 1998. Smith immediately gave the Cowboys a full season of depth, appearing in all 16 games and recording 17 tackles. The exact value of New England's past-considerations return is not identified in the surviving transaction summaries, so it should not be inflated. Dallas gets the modest edge for receiving a season-long contributor while the Patriots' realized compensation remains indistinct.

Minnesota sent New England a 1999 third-round pick for cornerback Jimmy Hitchcock before the 1998 season. Hitchcock then started all 16 games for the 15-1 Vikings, intercepted seven passes and returned three for touchdowns. New England used the eventual No. 91 pick on Tony George, who played 31 NFL games with one start. Minnesota received far more immediate impact from the exchange.

Detroit moved up 10 spots in the third round for defensive back Ryan Stewart, sending New England the 86th, 119th and 195th picks. Stewart played 41 NFL games with only two starts. The Patriots used No. 86 on Tedy Bruschi, who became a franchise cornerstone, three-time Super Bowl champion and Pro Bowler. New England also received two additional picks, making this one of the clearest wins in the wave.

Oakland reacquired the 57th pick from New England and used it on pass rusher Lance Johnstone, who became a productive Raider and eventually recorded 72 career sacks. The Patriots received picks 76, 124 and 149. New England later turned No. 76 into a package that included the selection used on Tedy Bruschi, while the other picks added depth. Johnstone was a real hit, but New England extracted the broader and more consequential return.

Oakland acquired veteran tackle Pat Harlow from New England for the 57th pick in the 1996 draft. Harlow gave the Raiders three seasons of useful starting work, including 30 starts, so the deal addressed a real need. New England then traded No. 57 back to Oakland for picks 76, 124 and 149, and the resulting chain helped produce Tedy Bruschi. Harlow was a solid acquisition, but the Patriots multiplied the asset and created greater long-term value.

Green Bay Packers received Mike Arthur from New England Patriots, giving up Bill Schroeder and Jeff Wilner. Schroeder and Wilner were separate incoming players and are treated as distinct assets. The return supports a C grade because the value directly tied to this deal fits that mark. The final verdict is Even Trade.

Kansas City sent New England the 112th pick in 1995 for a 1996 third-rounder. The Patriots selected center Dave Wohlabaugh, who became an immediate starter and a very good player. Kansas City waited a year and used No. 68 on defensive lineman John Browning, who spent nine seasons with the Chiefs, played 121 games, started 96 and recorded 27.5 sacks. Both sides won; Kansas City's longevity wins narrowly.

New England received Leroy Thompson, who delivered one productive all-purpose season for the Patriots. That immediate contribution gave New England useful value, though the return was not so large or durable that it clearly separated the Patriots from Pittsburgh. The B- grade reflects that realized football value and the complete supported package, while the overall verdict is Even Trade.

Los Angeles Chargers received 1994 3rd round pick (70th overall, Andre Coleman) and 1994 5th round pick (137th overall, Aaron Laing). Andre Coleman became the most durable direct Chargers return and provided several seasons of useful value, while Aaron Laing did not materially change the outcome. Compared with New England Patriots' return, the result supports a B+ grade and fits the Los Angeles Chargers Win verdict.

Arizona Cardinals received 1994 4th round pick (107th overall, Perry Carter) in the 1994-04-25 exchange with New England Patriots. Perry Carter never appeared in a game for Arizona and had only a short NFL career elsewhere, so the Cardinals did not capture comparable value from the higher pick. The direct return and the football value it produced drive the hindsight judgment. Against the assets Arizona Cardinals surrendered, the result supports New England Patriots Win and a D+ grade for Arizona Cardinals.

Seattle acquired running back Jon Vaughn from New England on August 25, 1993 for a 1994 sixth-round selection. Vaughn played all 16 games for the Seahawks that season, made two starts and rushed for 153 yards. New England used the acquired pick on Max Lane, who developed into a long-term offensive lineman and started extensively for the Patriots.

Cleveland Browns received Rob McGovern in the 1993-08-16 exchange with New England Patriots. Cleveland waived Rob McGovern within days of the exchange, so the Browns did not receive meaningful regular-season service from their acquired player. Against New England Patriots's return of George Williams (b), that outcome supports a C- grade. The transaction is judged Even Trade, with the mark tied to the football value that actually followed from the deal.

Dallas acquired quarterback Hugh Millen from New England for a 1994 seventh-round pick that became No. 222, Marty Moore. Draft records place the agreement on April 26, 1993, while the NFL transaction log lists April 28. The Cowboys added veteran quarterback depth, but New England converted the move into a draft asset and receives the slight long-term value edge.

New England acquired safety Adrian White from Green Bay in April 1993 for a conditional 1994 seventh-round pick. White played five games with four starts for the Patriots, providing short-term defensive help. The exact conditional pick cannot be tied safely to Butler By'not'e because Denver records trace No. 212 to a different Packers trade. With modest value on both sides, an even C/C is most defensible.

San Diego acquired No. 99 and selected Lewis Bush. Bush became a long-term Chargers linebacker and substantial starter, giving the club sustained defensive value from a fourth-round move. His longevity and role clearly exceed the combined Patriots return, making the Chargers the stronger side even though New England did receive some legitimate service from Corwin Brown.

Miami acquired receiver Irving Fryar from New England in April 1993 and received three excellent seasons from the veteran. Fryar topped 1,000 receiving yards in both 1993 and 1994 and totaled 3,190 yards with 20 touchdowns as a Dolphin. New England's primary return became guard Todd Rucci, who developed into a durable Patriots starter.

Green Bay acquired veteran running back John Stephens from New England for the 1993 fourth-round pick, No. 99. Stephens played only five games for the Packers, rushing for 173 yards before Green Bay moved on. New England later traded the No. 99 selection to San Diego for additional draft capital. The Packers received little from a former 1,000-yard runner, while the Patriots preserved and expanded the pick's value.

Atlanta moved from No. 19 to No. 8 in the 1992 draft and selected tackle Bob Whitfield, sending New England the 19th, 46th and 104th selections. Whitfield became a long-term Falcons cornerstone, starting 176 games across his NFL career and earning a Pro Bowl berth, while the Patriots used their return as fuel for additional draft-day maneuvering.

Dallas moved down from No. 13 and came away with the No. 37 pick used on Darren Woodson, another first-round selection, and additional fourth-round value. Woodson became a five-time Pro Bowler and a defensive leader for three championship teams. New England received Eugene Chung and Kevin Turner, but the Cowboys created the defining player and the deeper return.

Cleveland acquired guard Fred Childress from New England for the 1992 eighth-round pick used on running back Scott Lockwood at No. 204. Childress played all 16 games for the Browns in 1992, while Lockwood appeared in only six games over two seasons for New England. The margin was modest, but Cleveland received a full season of offensive-line availability for a late pick that produced limited Patriots value.

Phoenix Cardinals received Danny Villa from New England Patriots, giving up 1992 6th round pick (#145-Larry Tharpe). The acquired return is specifically 1992 sixth-round selection No. 145. The return supports a C+ grade because the value directly tied to this deal fits that mark. The final verdict is New England Patriots Win.

Atlanta traded guard Reggie Redding to New England in January 1992 for a fifth-round pick and a conditional 1993 selection. Redding started all 14 games he played for the Patriots that season, giving New England immediate line value. Atlanta received No. 120 Greg Briggs plus a later conditional asset, so the Falcons hold a slight draft-capital edge, but Redding's starting season keeps the result close.

Detroit received 1992 pick No. 145 from New England and used it on offensive tackle Larry Tharpe, while the Patriots received Nos. 165, 194, 277 and 333. The exact transaction date is not firmly established, so the existing January 1 sentinel date is retained. Tharpe became the most substantial NFL contributor produced by the exchange, giving Detroit the clear hindsight edge.

New England moved from No. 46 to No. 35 in the 1992 second round, sending Phoenix the later second-round pick plus No. 100. The Patriots selected defensive back Rod Smith. Phoenix used its two selections on Tony Sacca and Michael Bankston. Bankston became a long-term Cardinals starter, while Smith's New England impact remained much more limited.

New England traded linebacker Jesse Solomon to Tampa Bay on September 18, 1991 for the Buccaneers' 1992 fifth-round pick. The selection became No. 116, which the Patriots used on Dwayne Sabb. Solomon had only recently arrived in New England from Dallas, but that earlier deal was separate. Tampa Bay obtained immediate linebacker help, while New England turned a short stay into a mid-round pick and receives the slight edge.

Dallas traded linebacker Jesse Solomon to New England in September 1991 for a 1992 sixth-round pick that became No. 149 Fallon Wacasey. New England then moved Solomon to Tampa Bay one day later for a 1992 fifth-round pick, effectively upgrading the draft value it had spent. Dallas received a legitimate future choice, but the Patriots' immediate flip created the better result.

Dallas sent tight end Richard Gicewicz to New England in June 1991 and received the Patriots' 1992 twelfth-round selection. The pick became No. 317, which Dallas used on Don Harris. New England obtained a low-cost veteran option, while Dallas converted a movable player into a draft choice. Neither return became a major franchise piece, but the Cowboys preserved slightly more future value.

San Diego used the acquired fifth-round pick on defensive back Floyd Fields. Fields appeared in 30 games and made 16 starts for the Chargers, giving the club a meaningful secondary role from the selection. That starting workload stands out as the strongest direct contribution created by the trade and gives San Diego a modest advantage over New England's two-player draft return.

New England moved from No. 17 to No. 14 in the 1991 first round and selected running back Leonard Russell, while Dallas received No. 17 plus No. 110. The Cowboys immediately rerouted No. 17 through Washington and Detroit, eventually adding Dixon Edwards and other picks. Russell became the 1991 AP Offensive Rookie of the Year. Both teams generated substantial direct value, making the trade even.

The Houston Oilers sent the 17th pick in 1991 to New England for Nos. 28 and 101, which became Mike Dumas and David Rocker. New England then packaged No. 17 with another selection to move to No. 14 and draft Leonard Russell. Russell won Offensive Rookie of the Year, giving the Patriots the strongest result from the exchange.

Pittsburgh moved from No. 100 to No. 88 in the 1991 draft and selected defensive back Sammy Walker. Walker played only 18 games for the Steelers with four starts. New England received picks No. 100 and No. 127, then used subsequent trades involving those selections to create additional assets, including the pick that became five-time Pro Bowl tight end Ben Coates.

The Raiders acquired the NFL rights to Raghib "Rocket" Ismail from New England for a 1991 fifth-round pick and a 1992 fourth-rounder. Ismail eventually played three Raiders seasons from 1993 through 1995 and became a regular starter in 1995. New England used the fifth-rounder on Ben Coates, who became a five-time Pro Bowler and two-time first-team All-Pro, while also retaining value from the future fourth.

Dallas acquired the No. 1 pick before the 1991 draft and selected Russell Maryland, sending New England three veterans plus the 11th and 41st selections. Maryland became a Pro Bowl defensive lineman and part of three Cowboys Super Bowl champions. New England received substantial quantity, including long-term starter Pat Harlow, making this a productive deal for both sides.

Buffalo and New England exchanged late-round draft capital during the 1990 draft. The Bills received seventh-round selections No. 166 and No. 170, used on Brent Griffith and Brent Collins. New England received twelfth-rounder No. 322, Blaine Rose, plus a 1991 fourth-round pick that became No. 110. Neither side generated a major direct player payoff from the assets acquired.

Dallas and New England exchanged three 1990 draft choices apiece. The Cowboys received selections that became Jimmie Jones, Frank Cornish and Arthur Jimerson, while the Patriots received Greg McMurtry, James Gray and another seventh-round asset. Jones became a productive Dallas defensive lineman, and McMurtry supplied meaningful New England receiving production. The lesser selections generated mixed results and additional movement, leaving the direct returns closely balanced.

Denver acquired the 111th pick in the 1990 draft from New England and selected offensive lineman Jeff Davidson, sending a 1991 fourth-round selection in return. That future pick became No. 88 and was eventually used on Sammy Walker after later movement. Davidson developed into a useful NFL lineman, while the Patriots' asset also held legitimate fourth-round value. The exchange remains balanced, with no decisive long-term winner.

Seattle paid New England a massive draft package to move to No. 3 in 1990, sending picks that became Chris Singleton, Ray Agnew and Jimmie Jones plus a 1991 fourth-rounder, while receiving No. 3 and No. 29. The Seahawks used those selections on Cortez Kennedy and Terry Wooden. Kennedy became a Hall of Famer, making Seattle the decisive long-term winner.

New England Patriots received 1990 fifth round pick (#110-Junior Robinson), 1990 fifth round pick (#111-Jeff Davidson) in the 1990-04-22 exchange with Washington. Washington moved two fifth-round choices, Nos. 110 and 111, to New England to obtain the fourth-round slot No. The documented result supports a C+ grade for New England Patriots. The overall verdict is New England Patriots Win, based on realized value rather than hypothetical upside.

New England acquired punter Monte Robbins from Washington for a 1990 fourth-round selection that historical records identify as No. 86. The pick later returned to Washington through a separate 1990 draft-day trade and should not be conflated with the Robbins transaction. With neither direct return creating a major durable advantage, the original exchange grades close to even.

The Raiders used the acquired sixth-round selection on Doug Lloyd. Lloyd appeared in only one NFL game, leaving Los Angeles with almost no direct playing value from the move. The pick gave the club an opportunity in the middle of the draft, but the result was far below the useful defensive-back service New England ultimately received from Tony Zackery.

Cleveland traded center Mike Baab to New England in August 1988 for a 1989 fifth-round pick, No. 127. Cleveland later moved that pick rather than selecting Vince Workman itself, while Baab immediately became New England's starting center and remained a regular through 1989. The Patriots received two seasons of dependable line play for modest draft capital.

Tampa Bay acquired veteran receiver Stephen Starring from New England in August 1988 for a 1989 third-round pick. Starring lasted only six games with the Buccaneers and caught three passes for 75 yards before finishing the season in Detroit. New England used the pick, No. 63, on tight end Marv Cook, who became a multi-year starter and an 82-catch receiver in 1991.

San Diego traded linebacker Thomas Benson to New England for a 1989 seventh-round pick, then used No. 183 on running back Marion Butts. Benson appeared in 12 games for the Patriots in 1988, but Butts became a two-time Pro Bowler and rushed for 5,185 career yards, including 1,225 in 1990. Turning a departing veteran into a multiyear featured back made this an outstanding piece of late-round value for the Chargers.

New England Patriots received Tony Stephens. Tony Stephens did not establish an NFL regular-season career after New England acquired him, so the Patriots gained little direct football value. That outcome supports a D grade because the return is measured by the direct football value New England Patriots actually received after the deal, compared with the asset sent the other way.

Minnesota exchanged a future 1989 ninth-round pick for New England's 1988 eleventh-round selection, moving into the current draft to take Norman Floyd at No. 296. The Patriots later held No. 247 in 1989, used on Curtis Wilson. Neither player appeared in an NFL regular-season game. With no meaningful on-field return on either side, the trade finished almost exactly where its low draft cost suggested: even.

New England Patriots received 1989 fourth round pick (#96-Maurice Hurst (Sr.) (Roy)). New England received the 1989 fourth-round choice used on Maurice Hurst. Hurst became a seven-year Patriots defensive back, appeared in 105 games, and intercepted 27 passes. That sustained production from a mid-round asset created the dominant return in the transaction and comfortably outweighs the value Washington obtained from the 1988 fifth-round selection it received. That result supports a A- grade for New England Patriots.

Chicago traded quarterback Doug Flutie to New England in October 1987 for a 1988 eighth-round pick that became No. 208 David Tate. Flutie soon started for the Patriots and made nine starts in 1988 alone, throwing for 1,150 yards while adding mobility on the ground. New England obtained meaningful quarterback service for a very low draft cost.

The Raiders acquired three-time Pro Bowl tackle Brian Holloway from New England in 1987 for three identified draft choices: a 1988 fifth, a 1988 tenth and a 1989 seventh. Holloway played 14 games with eight starts for the Raiders over 1987-88. New England gained multiple selections, but none of the players tied to those picks became a major NFL difference-maker. The balanced short-term-versus-volume return supports an even verdict.

On 1987-08-20, New England Patriots received undisclosed draft pick (undisclosed), while Washington received Glenn Dennison. The hindsight verdict is Even Trade, with New England Patriots graded C and Washington graded C. The evaluation follows the documented consideration and the football value that can be traced from it, while keeping unverified downstream pick identities or conditional outcomes out of the final judgment.

New England acquired center Jim Romano from Houston in August 1987 for a conditional 1988 draft choice. The Patriots' 1988 media guide establishes that Romano never played a game for New England, so no draft choice was transferred. Romano went to injured reserve and was waived off IR in December. Neither side received regular-season football value, supporting C/C and Even Trade.

Tampa Bay acquired offensive lineman Darryl Haley from New England on July 27, 1987 for a 1988 fourth-round pick. Patriots historical material links the return to No. 87, Tim Goad, but another New England source attributes that same slot to a different prior pick exchange, so the exact downstream identity remains disputed. The direct fourth-round compensation is secure, and New England holds a slight value edge.

Minnesota acquired New England's rights to Rich Gannon shortly after the 1987 draft and ultimately sent fourth- and eleventh-round choices in 1988. Gannon spent six seasons with the Vikings and became a multi-year starter, giving Minnesota useful quarterback value long before his later MVP peak elsewhere. That production outweighs the modest return New England realized from the two selections.

New England sent the No. 81 pick and its tenth-round selection, No. 275, to the Raiders for Nos. 98 and 102 in the 1987 draft. Los Angeles used No. 81 on fullback Steve Smith and No. 275 on quarterback John Paye. Smith became a long-term Raiders starter. New England drafted Rich Gannon and Derrick Beasley, but Gannon was traded to Minnesota before playing for the Patriots.

Tampa Bay acquired New England's fifth-round pick in 1987 and selected linebacker Henry Rolling at No. 135, sending the Patriots a 1988 fourth-round choice. That future pick became No. 87, Tim Goad. Rolling gave Tampa Bay only limited reserve work, while Goad immediately became a Patriots starter and remained a major part of New England's defensive front through 1994.

Tampa Bay traded guard Sean Farrell to New England on February 4, 1987 for the Patriots' second-, seventh-, and ninth-round selections. The Buccaneers used those picks on Don Smith, Harry Swayne, and Greg Davis. Farrell then started regularly for New England for three seasons, while Tampa Bay's three-player return produced mixed results. The final value lands close to even.

San Diego/Los Angeles Chargers received Vencie Glenn in the 1986-09-29 exchange involving New England Patriots. Glenn became a long-term Chargers starter and productive defensive back, giving San Diego substantial value from the player side of the exchange. That realized return supports a A- grade for San Diego/Los Angeles Chargers. The overall verdict is Even Trade, with the grade based on direct value created from this transaction.

New England traded the NFL rights to USFL receiver Ricky Sanders to Washington in August 1986 for Washington’s 1987 third-round pick, No. 81 overall. The Patriots retained useful draft value and later moved the choice in another deal. Washington, however, obtained a receiver who became a major part of its offense, topped 1,100 yards twice and scored 12 touchdowns in 1988.

New England acquired tight end Willie Scott from Kansas City on July 22, 1986 for a 1987 eighth-round pick that became No. 218, Michael Clemons. Scott played 26 games for the Patriots across three seasons and caught four touchdowns, providing immediate rotational value. Clemons appeared in eight games for Kansas City in 1987, mostly as a returner, so New England received the more substantial contribution.

New England received Tampa Bay's 1987 fifth-round pick, No. 116, and selected Tom Gibson. Gibson never played a regular-season game for the Patriots, limiting the realized value of a pick that initially carried the higher round. That asset makes the transaction coherent, but the lack of on-field return leaves New England at D+ in hindsight.

Indianapolis acquired linebacker Tim Golden from New England on August 2, 1985 for a conditional 1986 tenth-round pick. Golden did not appear in a Colts regular-season game and was waived before the season, after which Philadelphia claimed him. The conditional pick was not exercised, leaving both franchises with no realized regular-season or draft value from the exchange.

San Francisco moved from No. 28 to No. 16 in the 1985 draft by sending New England its first-, second- and third-round selections, while also receiving a Patriots third-rounder. The 49ers used No. 16 on Jerry Rice, who became the most productive receiver in NFL history and a franchise cornerstone. No plausible value from New England's return approaches that outcome.

New England Patriots received 1985 seventh round pick (#192-Nick Haden), while Washington Commanders received Ricky Smith (b). The September 11, 1984 Ricky Smith trade and the resulting 1985 seventh-round No. 192, used on Nick Haden. That return earns a C grade for New England Patriots, and the overall verdict is Even Trade.

Atlanta received the 215th pick in the 1985 draft and selected Ronnie Washington. Atlanta received an eighth-round pick in the 1985 draft and used No. 215 on Ronnie Washington. Washington supplied only limited value for the Falcons, so the draft return did not become a lasting contributor. The pick was legitimate compensation, but the eventual outcome was far smaller than the production New England received from McSwain. In hindsight, that result supports a C- grade for Atlanta Falcons in a deal ultimately judged as New England Patriots Win.

Pittsburgh sent Greg Hawthorne to New England and received the 1985 ninth-round pick used on Andre Harris. Neither side produced a major long-term payoff, but the Steelers retained a controlled draft asset and realized the slightly better overall return. That small advantage supports a C+ grade for Pittsburgh rather than treating a low-impact exchange as a decisive win.

Denver traded punter Luke Prestridge to New England and received the 1985 tenth-round choice used on Buddy Funck. The pick gave the Broncos a future asset, but the eventual return was limited. Denver still holds a slight hindsight edge because it converted the outgoing specialist into draft capital, supporting a C+ grade rather than a stronger mark.

On 1984-07-25, Cleveland Browns received undisclosed conditional draft pick (undisclosed), while New England Patriots received Robin Ham. The hindsight verdict is Even Trade, with Cleveland Browns graded C and New England Patriots graded C. The evaluation follows the documented consideration and the football value that can be traced from it, while keeping unverified downstream pick identities or conditional outcomes out of the final judgment.

Seattle acquired veteran offensive lineman Bob Cryder from New England for a future selection that ultimately became the Patriots’ 1986 second-round pick, No. 42. Cryder immediately started 10 games in 1984 and 14 more in 1985 for the Seahawks. New England used the pick on nose tackle Mike Ruth, whose NFL career lasted only eight games. Seattle received substantially more realized value.

Cincinnati sent the No. 1 pick in the 1984 draft to New England and received first-rounders No. 16 and No. 28, a tenth-rounder and a 1985 fifth. The Bengals landed Pete Koch and long-time lineman Brian Blados, while New England selected Irving Fryar first overall. Fryar's lengthy, high-end career gives the Patriots the advantage, but Cincinnati's haul had real value.

New England Patriots received Tony Franklin (a), while Philadelphia Eagles received 1985 sixth round pick (#156-Ken Reeves). New England and Philadelphia records confirm the February 22, 1984 Tony Franklin trade for the 1985 sixth-round selection that became No. 156, used on Ken Reeves. That return earns a B grade for New England Patriots, and the overall verdict is Even Trade.

The Raiders acquired Mike Haynes during the 1983 season and immediately added an elite cornerback to a championship roster. Haynes played the final five regular-season games, started through the postseason, intercepted a pass in Super Bowl XVIII, and remained a high-level Raider for years. The compensation was significant, but Los Angeles received a Hall of Fame player at a premium position and a direct title contribution, which is exactly the outcome a contender hopes to buy.

The Raiders received Don Hasselbeck during their 1983 championship season, and he appeared in 14 games while catching two passes for 17 yards, both touchdowns. He therefore contributed to a Super Bowl roster, but his offensive role remained very small. Against Derrick Ramsey's much larger production for New England, Oakland's return merits a C.

The Raiders acquired veteran tackle Shelby Jordan from New England in September 1983 for a 1985 fourth-round pick. Jordan played 56 games for the Raiders, contributed to the Super Bowl XVIII championship team and remained through 1986. New England eventually used No. 108 on receiver Gerard Phelan, who did not establish an NFL career. The Raiders received several seasons of useful line depth for the pick.

San Francisco acquired Matt Cavanaugh from New England in 1983 for three future selections: 1984 seventh-round No. 192 Derwin Williams, 1985 eighth-round No. 224 Milford Hodge and 1986 seventh-round No. 187 Ray McDonald. Cavanaugh provided useful quarterback depth on strong 49ers teams, while the Patriots' picks produced less durable value, giving San Francisco the edge.

New England sent New Orleans a 1984 fourth-round pick in exchange for four late selections in the 1983 draft: Nos. 233, 265, 292 and 319. The Patriots found some useful depth, especially defensive lineman Toby Williams, but the Saints used the future pick on center Joel Hilgenberg. He spent 10 seasons with New Orleans, started 97 games and became a Pro Bowler and Saints Hall of Famer.

New England Patriots received 1984 ninth round pick (#251-David Windham), while Washington Commanders received Tony McGee (Eugene). Washington's September 1982 acquisition of Tony McGee for a 1984 ninth-round choice is supported by contemporary reporting and the draft history. That return earns a D grade for New England Patriots, and the overall verdict is Washington Commanders Win.

Washington swapped young quarterback Tom Flick for veteran Tom Owen during the 1982 preseason, seeking experienced depth behind Joe Theismann. Owen filled that reserve role on the eventual Super Bowl champion, while Flick appeared in three games for New England and went 0-for-5 passing. Neither quarterback generated major statistical value, but Washington received the clearer roster fit and more useful insurance at the position.

New York acquired linebacker Bill Matthews from New England on August 2, 1982 for a draft choice that was ultimately recorded as the Giants' 1983 tenth-round pick, No. 264. Matthews injured his knee during the 1982 preseason and never appeared in a regular-season game for the Giants. New England used No. 264 on tight end James Williams, who was released before the 1983 regular season.

Chicago Bears received John Lee (b) from New England Patriots, while New England Patriots received undisclosed conditional draft pick (details not identified) in the 1982-05-25 deal. In hindsight, Chicago Bears's return did not separate far enough from New England Patriots to justify a higher grade. The final grades are C for Chicago Bears and C for New England Patriots, producing a verdict of Even Trade. The rating reflects the documented package, the certainty of the consideration, and the football value that can actually be assigned in hindsight.

Chicago acquired veteran linebacker Rod Shoate from New England in April 1982 for a 1983 fifth-round pick. Shoate was released by the Bears before the regular season and never appeared in a game for Chicago. New England used No. 118 on defensive end Smiley Creswell, who never played for the Patriots and appeared in only three NFL games elsewhere.

San Diego acquired veteran safety Tim Fox from New England on April 27, 1982 and received three useful seasons, including seven interceptions in 30 games with the Chargers. The Patriots turned Fox into second-rounder Robert Weathers and a 1983 third-rounder used on tackle Steve Moore. Weathers contributed 1,001 yards from scrimmage and Moore eventually started 31 games, giving New England the broader long-term return.

San Francisco acquired tight end Russ Francis and the No. 29 pick from New England in 1982, then used the selection on tackle Bubba Paris. Both became important contributors on championship teams. New England received picks Nos. 27, 41, 55 and 111, producing Lester Williams, Andre Tippett, Darryl Haley and Brian Ingram, with Tippett becoming the defining asset.

Seattle acquired running back and returner Horace Ivory from New England for a 1982 third-round pick. Ivory played 12 games for the Seahawks across 1981-82, rushing for 89 yards and returning 25 kickoffs for 505 yards. New England used No. 60 on linebacker Clayton Weishuhn, who started 26 of 30 games and set a franchise single-season tackle record in 1983. The Patriots received the stronger long-term return.

New York acquired defensive back Bill Currier from New England on August 31, 1981 for the Giants' 1982 eleventh-round draft choice. Currier immediately became a starter, opening 14 games in 1981 and remaining with New York through 1985. Across five Giants seasons he appeared in 51 regular-season games with 48 starts and eight interceptions.

Cincinnati acquired veteran defensive end Mel Lunsford from New England on June 19, 1981. The Patriots' official transaction history records the return as cash, while Bengals history describes an additional conditional future draft choice that would have been owed only if Lunsford made Cincinnati's regular-season roster. He did not, so no draft pick was conveyed and Lunsford produced no Bengals regular-season games.

New England sent veteran guard Sam Adams to New Orleans on April 23, 1981 for the Saints' eighth-round selection, No. 194. The Patriots used the pick on Ken Naber, who did not become an NFL regular-season contributor. Adams, meanwhile, started all 16 games for New Orleans in 1981. Turning a late-round choice into a full season of starting line play gives the Saints the clear edge.

Detroit Lions received 1981 ninth round pick (#240-Dave Martin (b)) in the 1980-07-24 exchange with New England Patriots. New England acquired veteran linebacker Ed O'Neil from Detroit on July 24, 1980 for the 1981 ninth-round choice that became Dave Martin. Transaction records support the exact player-for-pick package. The documented result supports a C grade for Detroit Lions. The overall verdict is New England Patriots Win, based on realized value rather than hypothetical upside.

Minnesota sent veteran running back Chuck Foreman to New England in April 1980 for a conditional 1981 third-round pick. The condition produced No. 74, which the Vikings used on tackle Tim Irwin. Irwin became a 14-year NFL lineman and longtime Minnesota starter, giving the Vikings exceptional lasting value from a player whose Patriots tenure was near the end of his career.

Cleveland sent defensive end Mike St. Clair to New England on February 7, 1980, for the Patriots' sixth-round selection, No. 154 overall. Cleveland later included that choice in a draft-day package with the Rams, while New England received the veteran player. Because the pick became useful trade capital but neither side produced a clearly dominant standalone outcome, the exchange fits best as an even result.

New England traded All-Pro tackle Leon Gray to Houston for a 1980 first-round pick, a sixth-round pick and cash. The first-rounder became running back Vagas Ferguson, who started 21 games for the Patriots and rushed for 818 yards as a rookie. The return was usable, but it did not replace the elite line play New England surrendered.

Detroit received New England's 1979 twelfth-round pick for Bob McKay and used No. 326 on Bryan Sweeney. Sweeney never appeared in an NFL regular-season game, so the Lions' draft return produced no realized league value. Detroit gained a selection, but the player chosen with it did not become a contributor.

Minnesota traded punter Neil Clabo to New England on August 23, 1978 for a conditional draft choice. The Patriots' own 1979 media guide confirms the transaction and compensation type. Clabo never appeared in a New England regular-season game; NFL and Pro Football Reference records show his entire 41-game NFL career came with Minnesota from 1975 through 1977.

Denver Broncos received Tom Neville (Thomas Oliver Neville Jr.) in the exchange with New England Patriots. Neville immediately started 15 games at right tackle for the 1978 Broncos, giving Denver a full season of meaningful offensive-line value. The supported hindsight grade is B-. That mark reflects realized value tied directly to this transaction, with the overall result recorded as Denver Broncos Win.

New England Patriots acquired Dave Pureifory from Pittsburgh in August 1978 and surrendered the 1979 sixth-round selection that became Dwayne Woodruff. Pureifory did not provide meaningful Patriots regular-season value after the move, while the pick became a major long-term Steelers contributor. That enormous realized gap leaves New England with an F despite the seemingly modest original price.

Los Angeles traded veteran receiver Harold Jackson to New England for a 1979 third-round pick and a 1980 fourth-round pick. The selections became Mike Wellman and David Hodge, neither of whom approached Jackson’s impact for the Patriots. The Rams gained draft flexibility from an aging player, but the realized return remained modest.

Detroit's supported return was Bob McKay, but the tackle was sent back to New England roughly one month later. That brief stay did not create enough durable Lions value to separate the trade. The grade remains tied to documented value for the acquiring club, without assigning credit for unresolved or hypothetical downstream consideration.

On 1977-10-04, Cleveland Browns received Art Moore (Arthur Moore), while New England Patriots received conditional draft pick (undisclosed). The hindsight verdict is Even Trade, with Cleveland Browns graded C and New England Patriots graded C. The evaluation credits only the consideration that can be traced confidently and keeps uncertain pick details out of the final judgment.

New England received the 1978 eighth-round pick used on Terry Falcon. Falcon made the Patriots and appeared in 18 games across 1978 and 1979, but he never started. The pick produced legitimate reserve depth, yet it did not approach the immediate starting and turnover production Philadelphia received from John Sanders.

Washington acquired running back Harold Hart from New England on August 22, 1977 in a conditional-pick transaction. Hart was waived eight days later without playing a regular-season game for Washington; the resulting Patriots-to-Washington conditional pick became No. 300 in 1979, used on Tony Hall, who also failed to make the regular-season roster.

Washington acquired running back Harold Hart from New England on August 22, 1977 in a conditional-pick exchange. Hart did not make Washington's regular-season roster, triggering New England's 1979 No. 300 pick to Washington, which the club used on receiver Tony Hall.

Minnesota acquired defensive back Joe Blahak from New England for cash on March 11, 1977. Blahak appeared in 12 games for the Vikings that season, giving Minnesota a modest amount of usable depth. With no player or draft asset heading back to New England, the Vikings earned the slightly better result.

New England acquired Willie Germany and received 1976 defensive-back depth. Germany appeared in 10 games for the Patriots that season, giving the club a real but limited short-term return. He did not become a long-term New England starter, so the value remained well below what Houston ultimately created from the draft pick.

Detroit sent Marlin Briscoe to New England for a 1977 sixth-round pick that became Reggie Pinkney. Briscoe gave the Patriots one season, playing 14 games with five starts and 136 receiving yards. Pinkney played 24 games for Detroit over two seasons, started three and intercepted three passes. Neither return was large, but Detroit received slightly more durable value.

New England acquired Delles Howell from the Jets for a draft choice whose exact selection has not been identified. Howell did not produce a regular-season return for the Patriots and was released before the 1976 season began. Because the Jets' downstream selection also remains unresolved, New England has no documented advantage large enough to justify a winning grade.

Las Vegas Raiders received Leon McQuay in the deal with New England Patriots. Leon McQuay did not appear in a Raiders regular-season game after the transaction and instead finished the 1976 season with New Orleans. That result supports a D for Las Vegas Raiders. The Even Trade verdict weighs the documented service and usable draft value each side actually realized from the exchange.

Minnesota acquired center Doug Dumler from New England for a 1976 eighth-round pick and a 1977 sixth-round pick. Dumler appeared in every regular-season game for the Vikings across 1976 and 1977, providing two seasons of useful line depth. New England used the first pick on Stu Betts and later traded the second for Marlin Briscoe. The Patriots found some secondary value, but Minnesota received the steadier direct return.

Cleveland Browns received Ron Bolton while New England Patriots received Bob McKay. Cleveland received Ron Bolton, who became a long-term defensive back and remained with the Browns through 1982. His multi-season tenure gave Cleveland durable secondary value and made the acquisition far more than a short-term depth move. That outcome supports a B grade for Cleveland Browns in this trade.

San Francisco acquired Jim Plunkett in a blockbuster attempt to solve quarterback, but his two 49ers seasons produced a losing record and no playoff berth. The cost was enormous: Tom Owen, two 1976 first-rounders and premium 1977 choices. New England converted that package into Pete Brock, Tim Fox, Raymond Clayborn and Horace Ivory, creating multiple long-term contributors from one outgoing quarterback.

Cincinnati sent running back Doug Dressler to New England for a 1976 seventh-round choice used on quarterback Bob Bateman. Dressler’s Patriots stay lasted only five games before his season continued elsewhere, while Bateman did not become a regular-season Bengals contributor. Cincinnati recovered a draft asset and New England received brief veteran depth, but neither side generated lasting value.

On 1975-09-01, Los Angeles Rams received undisclosed draft pick (selection not identified), while New England Patriots received Derrick Williams (a). The final verdict is New England Patriots Win, with Los Angeles Rams graded C+ and New England Patriots graded B. The hindsight view follows the documented consideration and later traceable value without treating every named pick outcome as if it had been directly exchanged on trade day. Any conditional, undisclosed, or unidentified component is credited only to the extent that the surviving evidence establishes it.

Arizona Cardinals received undisclosed draft pick (possibly 1977 #135-Andy Spiva). Arizona received an undisclosed future draft choice, possibly the 1977 No. 135 selection associated with Andy Spiva. The exact pick identity remains qualified, and the possible selection did not produce Cardinals regular-season value. That leaves Arizona with a limited return compared with the twelve games New England received from Durwood Keeton in 1975. That result supports a D+ grade for Arizona Cardinals.

New England Patriots received 1976 eighth round pick (selection not identified), while New Orleans Saints received Lawrence Williams. New England sent Lawrence Williams to New Orleans for the Saints' 1976 eighth-round choice. The round is supported, the exact selection remains unidentified, and Williams did not create a durable Saints return. The supported history provides enough detail to judge the exchange without overstating uncertain downstream information. New England Patriots earns a C grade, and the overall verdict is New England Patriots Win.

New York traded running back Leon McQuay to New England on August 21, 1975 for the Patriots' 1976 sixth-round draft choice. The pick became No. 162 overall, which the Giants used on linebacker Dan Lloyd. Lloyd appeared in 57 regular-season games for New York from 1976 through 1979, giving the Giants a multi-year return from the deal.

New England Patriots received 1976 seventh round pick (#202-Perry Brooks) from Tennessee Titans. New England used the seventh-round choice on Perry Brooks, but Brooks did not supply the Patriots meaningful regular-season value. That realized return supports a D grade for New England Patriots. The final verdict is Even Trade, based on the regular-season service and draft value each club actually received after the exchange.

New England Patriots received 1976 seventh round pick (selection not identified), while New Orleans Saints received Josh Ashton. New England sent Josh Ashton to New Orleans for the Saints' 1976 seventh-round choice. The exact selection has not been identified, and Ashton did not establish lasting regular-season value for New Orleans. The supported history provides enough detail to judge the exchange without overstating uncertain downstream information. New England Patriots earns a C grade, and the overall verdict is New England Patriots Win.

Detroit Lions received Jon Morris in the deal with New England Patriots. Jon Morris became an immediate full-time center for Detroit and started all 42 Lions games from 1975 through 1977. That result supports a A- for Detroit Lions. The Detroit Lions Win verdict weighs the documented service and usable draft value each side actually realized from the exchange.

New England acquired linebacker Steve Zabel from Philadelphia in July 1975 for two 1976 draft picks: fourth-round No. 97 Gene Swick and eighth-round No. 216 Richard LaFargue. No supported 1977 ninth-round choice belongs in the package. Philadelphia received two legitimate selections for a veteran player, giving the Eagles a small value edge despite modest overall outcomes.

Los Angeles Chargers: San Diego converted the pick into Woodrow Lowe, who became a long-term Chargers linebacker and supplied years of dependable defensive production. The A grade reflects only value tied directly to this transaction, including production or draft value the club itself controlled. Against New England Patriots, that supported return leads to the final verdict of Los Angeles Chargers Win.

New England Patriots received 1975 twelfth round pick (#306-Conredge Holloway). New England received the 1975 twelfth-round choice used at No. 306 on Conredge Holloway. Holloway did not play in the NFL, so the Patriots did not realize meaningful professional production from the selection. The draft asset had some theoretical value, but the actual football outcome was minimal. The balanced outcome supports a C grade for New England Patriots.

Cleveland Browns received Reggie Rucker, while New England Patriots received 1975 fourth round pick (#86-Allen Carter). Cleveland acquired Reggie Rucker while New England received fourth-round No. 86, Allen Carter. The supported history provides enough detail to judge the exchange without overstating uncertain downstream information. Cleveland Browns earns a B+ grade, and the overall verdict is Cleveland Browns Win.

Detroit obtained two future selections. The sixth-round choice is tied in the surviving transaction record to Horace King with some qualification, while the 1976 eighth-rounder became Rich Sorenson. King went on to become the durable piece in the transaction and gave Detroit years of useful backfield production. That result supports a B+ grade within the Detroit Lions Win verdict.

Philadelphia acquired John Tarver from New England for 1975 fifth-round No. 117 Steve Freeman and 1976 eighth-round No. 217 Rich Sorenson. Tarver's Eagles tenure was brief and low-impact, while New England retained two draft assets and later moved the No. 217 selection in another deal. The Patriots gained a modest flexibility advantage without producing a major windfall.

New England Patriots received Craig Hanneman from Pittsburgh Steelers. Craig Hanneman appeared in 20 Patriots games across 1974 and 1975, giving New England useful defensive-line depth over two seasons. That realized return supports a B- grade for New England Patriots. The final verdict is New England Patriots Win, based on the regular-season service and draft value each club actually received after the exchange.

New England acquired defensive end Tony McGee from Chicago just before the 1974 season for an eighth-round choice in 1975 and a third-round choice in 1976. McGee became a long-term Patriots contributor and was later named to the franchise's All-1970s Team. Chicago used the acquired choices on Joe Harris and Brian Baschnagel; Baschnagel alone played 129 games for the Bears, starting 73 and producing 2,024 receiving yards. The realized value on both sides makes an even verdict the fairest result.

Green Bay acquired defensive back Dave Mason, who appeared in twelve games for the Packers in 1974. The conditional 1975 tenth-round payment was later voided because the trade conditions were not fulfilled, meaning Green Bay obtained Mason without ultimately conveying that selection. The B grade reflects useful short-term value at effectively no completed draft cost.

San Diego acquired defensive lineman Dave Rowe from New England in August 1974 for a 1975 sixth-round pick that became No. 150, Charles Miller. Older source wording attached confusing provenance to the selection, but the direct compensation is identifiable. The Chargers gained veteran line help, while New England converted Rowe into future draft capital and receives the slight value edge.

New England Patriots received George Webster from Pittsburgh Steelers. George Webster started 25 Patriots games across 1974 and 1975 and remained with the club in 1976, providing substantial veteran linebacker value. That realized return supports a B+ grade for New England Patriots. The final verdict is New England Patriots Win, based on the regular-season service and draft value each club actually received after the exchange.

New England received cash; Chicago received James Callier. Historical team records confirm New England sold James Callier to Chicago on August 14, 1974. Callier did not establish regular-season value for the Bears, leaving the Patriots with certain cash consideration and Chicago without a durable football return. The hindsight grades are D+ for Chicago Bears and C+ for New England Patriots, producing a New England Patriots Win verdict.

Cincinnati Bengals received cash in the exchange with New England Patriots. Cincinnati received cash consideration and avoided surrendering meaningful on-field value, enough for a narrow edge in a small transaction. Against the other side's return of David Lewis / Dave Lewis (a), that outcome supports a C+ grade. The transaction is ultimately judged as Cincinnati Bengals Win, with the grade reflecting realized football value rather than the name or nominal value of the asset on the trade date.

Atlanta Falcons received 1975 twelfth round pick (selection not identified), while New England Patriots received Don Highsmith. New England acquired Don Highsmith from Atlanta for a 1975 twelfth-round choice. Highsmith's recorded NFL playing career had already ended, while the exact Atlanta selection has not been identified. The supported history provides enough detail to judge the exchange without overstating uncertain downstream information. Atlanta Falcons earns a C grade, and the overall verdict is Atlanta Falcons Win.

Detroit purchased Archie Pearmon from New England for cash on August 7, 1974. Pearmon did not develop into meaningful regular-season value for the Lions, while the Patriots at least converted a preseason roster asset into consideration. With the cash amount undisclosed and the stakes small, New England earns only a modest C+ to D+ win.

Indianapolis received a sixth-round choice that became Danny Rhodes plus cash, while New England acquired quarterback Jack Mildren. Rhodes appeared in 14 games as a rookie, and Mildren never developed into a long-term answer for the Patriots. Neither return became a franchise-changing piece, but the Colts extracted both draft capital and cash from a player who provided New England limited on-field value.

New England traded linebacker Steve Kiner to the Houston Oilers on January 30, 1974 for Houston's ninth-round pick, No. 209. The Patriots used the selection on Ed McCartney, who never appeared in an NFL regular-season game. Kiner became a five-year Houston starter, playing 72 games with 71 starts from 1974 through 1978 and contributing to the Oilers' rise into an AFC contender.

Green Bay Packers received John Mosier. John Mosier was released by Green Bay without appearing in a Packers regular-season game, leaving the club without direct on-field value from the exchange. That outcome supports a D grade because the return is measured by the direct football value Green Bay Packers actually received after the deal, compared with the asset sent the other way.

New England Patriots received 1974 sixth round pick (#141-Chuck Ramsey), while Philadelphia Eagles received Dennis Wirgowski. New England sent Dennis Wirgowski to Philadelphia for the 1974 sixth-round choice that became No. 141 Chuck Ramsey. The supported history provides enough detail to judge the exchange without overstating uncertain downstream information. New England Patriots earns a C grade, and the overall verdict is Philadelphia Eagles Win.

New England Patriots received Brian Stenger in the exchange with Pittsburgh Steelers. Brian Stenger appeared in ten Patriots games with two starts, giving New England a modest but tangible return. Against the other side's return of 1974 tenth round pick (#243-Jim Kregel), that outcome supports a C+ grade. The transaction is ultimately judged as New England Patriots Win, with the grade reflecting realized football value rather than the name or nominal value of the asset on the trade date.

Washington acquired linebacker Brad Dusek and a 1974 third-round pick from New England for Donnel Smith and a 1974 seventh-round pick. Dusek became an eight-season Washington fixture, while the third-round choice retained additional trade value. New England's seventh-rounder became Maury Damkroger, whose Patriots career lasted 13 games, creating a clear Washington advantage.

Pittsburgh traded safety Ralph Anderson to New England on Sept. 3, 1973 for the fourth-round pick that became No. 82 in the 1974 draft. The Steelers used it on John Stallworth, a future Hall of Fame receiver who caught 537 passes for 8,723 yards and helped win four Super Bowls. Anderson started 11 games for the Patriots in 1973, but his New England tenure lasted only that season.

Oakland/Las Vegas Raiders received future draft choice(s) (exact year, round and selections not independently confirmed) in the exchange with New England Patriots. Oakland received future draft choice consideration, but the surviving evidence does not establish a specific year, round, or player outcome that can be credited. The supported hindsight grade is C. That mark reflects realized value tied directly to this transaction, with the overall result recorded as Even Trade.

New Orleans acquired Henry Matthews from New England for a future fifth-round choice. Surviving draft records most plausibly connect that compensation to the 1974 selection that became Charlie Battle at No. 124. Matthews appeared for the Saints in 1973 but did not become a long-term contributor, leaving New Orleans with only brief roster service from the player it acquired.

New England Patriots received Charlie Richards in the 1973-08-29 exchange with Washington, giving up 1974 ninth round pick (#218-Mark Sens). New England acquired running back Charlie Richards for a ninth-round draft choice. That return supports a B grade for New England Patriots. The final verdict is New England Patriots Win, based on the football value tied directly to the assets in this deal.

Cincinnati sent linebacker Bill Peterson to New England for a future fourth-round selection that became No. 87 in 1974. The Bengals used the pick on Mike Boryla and later moved Boryla's rights for additional future compensation before he played for Cincinnati. Peterson did not provide New England comparable regular-season value, allowing the Bengals to preserve and redirect the more useful asset.

New England received Chicago's 1974 second-round pick, used on Steve Corbett, plus the fourth-round pick at No. 82, which the Patriots later moved to Pittsburgh for Ralph Anderson. Chicago acquired Tom Reynolds, Ken Lee, and the pick used on Ken Grandberry. Grandberry's productive 1974 season gives the Bears a slight edge, but New England also extracted legitimate value.

Green Bay Packers received Bill DuLac. Bill DuLac was released before playing a Packers regular-season game, so Green Bay received no direct game value from its acquired player. That outcome supports a D grade because the return is measured by the direct football value Green Bay Packers actually received after the deal, compared with the asset sent the other way.

New England received Pittsburgh's 1974 tenth-round selection and ultimately also regained John Smith, who returned to the Patriots and became a long-term kicker for the franchise. That combination left New England with the stronger practical outcome from the 1973 move. The B grade reflects the retained compensation and Smith's later value, supporting a New England Patriots Win verdict.

New England Patriots received Mel Lunsford, while Washington Commanders received 1974 fifth round pick (undisclosed). Mel Lunsford became a long-term New England defensive lineman, playing 92 games with 74 starts for the Patriots through 1980. Washington received a 1974 fifth-round choice, but the documented return does not approach the sustained starting service New England extracted from Lunsford. That outcome supports a A- grade for New England Patriots, a C- for Washington Commanders, and a New England Patriots Win verdict.

Los Angeles acquired linebacker Jeff Lyman from New England for a draft choice whose exact selection has not been identified. Lyman had only three prior NFL regular-season appearances and did not make the Rams' 1973 regular-season roster. Because New England's downstream draft return also remains unresolved, the Rams did not receive enough documented value to create a clear advantage.

Buffalo Bills: Buffalo received Ron Berger, but he did not make the Bills regular-season roster and therefore produced no meaningful direct return. The D grade reflects only value tied directly to this transaction, including production or draft value the club itself controlled. Against New England Patriots, that supported return leads to the final verdict of New England Patriots Win.

Dallas Cowboys received 1974 tenth round pick (selection not identified), while New England Patriots received Herb Adderley. Dallas sent Herb Adderley to New England for a 1974 tenth-round choice. Adderley's New England stay lasted only weeks before another move, so Dallas at least secured a draft asset while New England gained virtually no regular-season value. The supported history provides enough detail to judge the exchange without overstating uncertain downstream information. Dallas Cowboys earns a C+ grade, and the overall verdict is Dallas Cowboys Win.

Denver Broncos received 1974 eighth round pick (selection not identified), while New England Patriots received Lloyd Voss. Denver sent a 1974 eighth-round choice to New England for Lloyd Voss. Historical sources differ by one day on the transaction date, but July 3, 1973 remains directly supported and the exact selection is unidentified. The supported history provides enough detail to judge the exchange without overstating uncertain downstream information. Denver Broncos earns a C grade, and the overall verdict is Even Trade.

Pittsburgh traded tight end Bob Adams to New England on May 16, 1973 for a conditional 1974 seventh- or eighth-round pick tied to Adams' playing time. The condition ultimately resolved to New England's seventh-round pick, No. 165, which Pittsburgh used on tackle Allen Sitterle. Adams gave the Patriots 25 regular-season games and 12 starts over 1973-74, while Sitterle never appeared in an NFL regular-season game.

Buffalo acquired Jim Cheyunski, Halvor Hagen and Mike Montler. Cheyunski became an immediate starting linebacker and team leader, while Hagen and Montler added further veteran service. Montler in particular had a long NFL career as an offensive lineman. The combined usefulness of three incoming veterans gives Buffalo the clearly stronger direct return from this six-player exchange.

Chicago acquired running back Carl Garrett from New England for the 1973 first-round pick used on Darryl Stingley. Garrett gave the Bears two productive seasons, including 655 rushing yards in 1973, while Stingley produced 1,883 receiving yards and 14 touchdowns across five Patriots seasons. Both sides received real value, with New England earning the narrow edge.

Miami Dolphins received 1973 seventh round pick (#163-Benny Shepherd) in the exchange with New England Patriots. Miami's seventh-round choice became No. 163 Benny Shepherd, but the available career record does not show meaningful Dolphins regular-season value from that selection. Against New England Patriots' return of Bill Griffin, that result supports a C- grade. The transaction is judged as Even Trade, with the mark based on the football value that actually followed from the deal.

Miami traded tackle Wayne Mass to New England on August 28, 1972 for the Patriots' 1973 seventh-round pick, which became No. 160 overall. Miami selected linebacker Kevin Reilly with that choice. Mass played only six games for New England in 1972, while Reilly never played for Miami, making this a modest Dolphins win rather than a major haul.

Pittsburgh acquired Ernie Holmes from New England for cash in August 1972 and turned a minor purchase into a core defensive contributor. Holmes played six seasons for the Steelers, became a regular starter on the Steel Curtain front and was part of the franchise’s first two Super Bowl championship teams. New England received only cash, making Pittsburgh the clear long-term winner.

Miami acquired linebacker Steve Kiner from New England on August 4, 1972 for offensive tackle Bill Griffin. The historical record supports one Griffin in the exchange, not two separate players. Kiner was waived by Miami before the regular season, while Griffin never produced regular-season NFL value for New England. With neither side realizing meaningful on-field return, this belongs as an even trade.

Cleveland Browns received Clark Hoss in the exchange with New England Patriots. Clark Hoss did not produce regular-season value for Cleveland after the move, so the Browns gained little from the player side of the exchange. Against New England Patriots' return of 1973 seventh round pick (undisclosed), that result supports a D+ grade. The transaction is judged as New England Patriots Win, with the mark based on the football value that actually followed from the deal.

Denver Broncos received Eric Crabtree in the exchange with New England Patriots. The historical record shows how the player service and draft value developed after the deal, with the comparison favoring New England Patriots. That result supports a D+ for Denver Broncos. The grade reflects the less valuable realized return and keeps the judgment proportional to the documented value produced by this transaction.

New England acquired punter Jim Benien from Detroit on July 31, 1972 and sent the Lions its 1973 fifth-round choice. Multiple later Patriots media guides identify the compensation as a fifth-rounder, while one older guide lists a fourth. New England retained and used its own fourth-round pick, supporting the fifth-round account. The exact conveyed fifth-round selection remains unidentified, and Detroit receives a slight value edge without inventing it.

San Francisco traded tight end Bob Windsor to New England on July 31, 1972 for the Patriots' 1974 first-round selection. Windsor had a limited Patriots tenure, while the 49ers ultimately used the ninth overall pick on running back Wilbur Jackson. Securing a top-ten first-rounder for a non-core veteran created a major long-term asset advantage for San Francisco.

New England Patriots received 1973 fourth round pick (Philadelphia) from Philadelphia Eagles. New England received Philadelphia's 1973 fourth-round choice, preserving meaningful future draft capital even though the exact downstream player identity is not secure enough to assign here. That realized return supports a B- grade for New England Patriots. The final verdict is New England Patriots Win, based on the regular-season service and draft value each club actually received after the exchange.

Arizona Cardinals received Bill Atessis in the deal with New England Patriots. Bill Atessis did not play a regular-season game for the Cardinals after the deal and was released in September 1972. That result supports a F for Arizona Cardinals. The New England Patriots Win verdict weighs the documented service and usable draft value each side actually realized from the exchange.

New England Patriots received 1973 ninth round pick (Baltimore) from Washington Commanders. New England received Baltimore's 1973 ninth-round choice, retaining future draft value even though the exact later player assignment is not secure enough to attribute here. That realized return supports a B- grade for New England Patriots. The final verdict is New England Patriots Win, based on the regular-season service and draft value each club actually received after the exchange.

Dallas acquired wide receiver Ron Sellers from New England in July 1972 for a conditional 1973 pick that settled as the third-round selection used on Charles Davis at No. 73. Sellers immediately led the Cowboys with 653 receiving yards and caught the winning touchdown in their divisional playoff comeback. Davis never played an NFL regular-season game, making Dallas the clear hindsight winner.

New Orleans sent Jim Flanigan to New England on June 29, 1972 and received the 1973 sixth-round choice later used on Marty Shuford at No. 134. Flanigan did not make a regular-season impact for the Patriots, while Shuford also failed to become a meaningful NFL contributor. The Saints at least recovered a draft asset, giving them a slight edge in an otherwise low-value exchange.

New England Patriots received conditional 1973 sixth round pick (not conveyed), while Pittsburgh Steelers received Ron Gardin. New England sent Ron Gardin to Pittsburgh with a conditional 1973 sixth-round return attached. The condition depended on Gardin making Pittsburgh's roster and was not met, so the pick was never conveyed. The supported history provides enough detail to judge the exchange without overstating uncertain downstream information. New England Patriots earns a D grade, and the overall verdict is Even Trade.

New England acquired linebacker Bill Hobbs from Philadelphia for veteran defensive tackle Houston Antwine. Hobbs did not provide a comparable Patriots return and finished the 1972 season with New Orleans, limiting the value New England realized from the exchange. The Patriots still took a reasonable chance on a younger defensive piece, but the outcome supports a C- grade and leaves them on the weaker side.

Los Angeles acquired defensive end Fred Dryer from New England in 1972 for Rick Cash and the 1973 first-round selection used on Sam Cunningham. Dryer spent a decade with the Rams and became an elite defender. New England also received major value, with Cash starting immediately and Cunningham developing into one of the Patriots' foundational running backs.

The Chargers received Ed Philpott, but he did not appear on San Diego's 1972 or 1973 regular-season rosters. The player therefore produced little direct football value for the club after the exchange. That outcome supports a D+ grade within the Even Trade verdict. The grade reflects realized football value rather than the size of the original package.

New York traded Fred Dryer to New England for three draft choices: the 1972 first-round pick used on Eldridge Small, the 1972 sixth-rounder used on Mike Perfetti and a 1973 second-rounder that later became Greg Pruitt after another Giants trade. Dryer never played for the Patriots, but New England quickly moved him to the Rams for Rick Cash and a 1973 first-round pick that became Sam Cunningham.

Baltimore sent defensive back and returner Ron Gardin to New England for the fifth-round choice that became No. 115 in the 1972 draft, where the Colts selected Don Croft. Gardin supplied the Patriots with immediate 1971 playing time, while Croft never produced regular-season value for Baltimore. That modest but real contribution gives New England the better side of a small trade.

Las Vegas Raiders received Warren Koegel in the exchange with New England Patriots. The historical record shows how the player service and draft value developed after the deal, with the comparison favoring New England Patriots. That result supports a D for Las Vegas Raiders. The grade reflects the less valuable realized return and keeps the judgment proportional to the documented value produced by this transaction.

Denver traded wide receiver Mike Haffner to New England on September 8, 1971 for what the Patriots' official all-time trade history calls New England's 1972 13th choice. The exact draft selection is not identified in the reviewed record. Haffner never appeared in a Patriots regular-season game and later played three games for Cincinnati in 1971.

Los Angeles Chargers received Eddie Ray. Eddie Ray appeared only briefly for the Chargers after the trade, so Los Angeles received little durable value from the player side of the exchange. That result supports a D+ grade for Los Angeles Chargers. The final verdict is New England Patriots Win, based on the documented service, durability, and value each club actually obtained from this exchange.

New England acquired Ara Person, but Person did not become a Patriots regular-season contributor and later appeared only briefly for another club. The direct return therefore created almost no lasting New England value. That outcome looks especially poor beside Jim Clack's long Steelers tenure, making the Patriots the clear losing side of this player-for-player exchange.

The extraordinary 1971 Dallas-New England deal was partially unwound days after the original exchange. Duane Thomas returned to Dallas and Carl Garrett returned to New England, while the Patriots retained Halvor Hagen and Honor Jackson in return for New England's 1972 second- and third-round choices. Dallas used those picks on Robert Newhouse and Mike Keller. Thomas then helped the Cowboys win Super Bowl VI, creating the stronger final outcome.

Dallas and New England initially announced a larger 1971 exchange involving Duane Thomas, Carl Garrett, Halvor Hagen, Honor Jackson and a Patriots first-round pick, but that structure was partially unwound. Thomas stayed in Dallas and Garrett stayed in New England. The completed exchange sent Hagen and Jackson to New England for 1972 second- and third-round choices, which Dallas used on Robert Newhouse and Mike Keller.

Green Bay acquired John Bramlett from New England in exchange for Rich Moore, also identified as Richie Moore in club records. Bramlett's stay with the Packers was brief and did not create a lasting advantage. Moore never became a Patriots regular-season contributor and was released the following year, so Green Bay's return was not meaningfully better than New England's.

Dallas Cowboys received 1972 fourth round pick (#90-Robert West) in the exchange with New England Patriots. Dallas used the fourth-round selection on No. 90 Robert West, but West did not create regular-season value comparable to Kiner's immediate contribution in New England. Against New England Patriots' return of Steve Kiner, that result supports a D+ grade. The transaction is judged as New England Patriots Win, with the mark based on the football value that actually followed from the deal.

Denver Broncos received 1972 sixth round pick (selection not identified) in the exchange with New England Patriots. Denver received a 1972 sixth-round choice and preserved usable draft capital, even though the exact eventual selection remains unidentified. The supported hindsight grade is C+. That mark reflects realized value tied directly to this transaction, with the overall result recorded as Denver Broncos Win.

New England Patriots received Mike Haggerty in the 1971-07-08 exchange with Pittsburgh Steelers. New England's official historical trade records records the July 8, 1971 acquisition of tackle Mike Haggerty from Pittsburgh for linebacker Marty Schottenheimer and the Patriots' 1972 fourteenth-round choice. Schottenheimer was subsequently moved by Pittsburgh to Baltimore for another 1972 selection, creating additional draft value, while Haggerty gave New England one season. The documented result supports a C grade for New England Patriots. The overall verdict is Pittsburgh Steelers Win, based on realized value rather than hypothetical upside.

San Diego moved Jim Schmedding to New England and received the Patriots' 1972 sixth-round choice, although the exact selection cannot be identified confidently. Schmedding's recorded NFL playing career ended after his 1970 Chargers season, so New England did not receive a regular-season payoff from the acquisition. Even without a traced downstream pick, San Diego retained the slightly better practical position.

Denver traded kicker Charlie Gogolak to Boston in October 1970 for the Patriots’ 1971 fourth-round pick. The Broncos used the 79th selection on Lyle Alzado, who became an eight-year Denver defensive-line force, a first-team All-Pro and key member of the Orange Crush defense. Gogolak’s Patriots tenure was brief. Turning a veteran kicker into a foundational defender makes this one of Denver’s clearest historical trade wins.

Oakland sent veteran defensive lineman Ike Lassiter to New England for third- and seventh-round selections in the 1971 draft. The Raiders retained flexibility with the picks and later moved the third-round asset in another transaction, but the direct downstream return did not clearly exceed Lassiter's service. New England received two seasons of immediate veteran line play from the player it acquired.

Denver Broncos received Jim Whalen from Boston/New England Patriots, giving up Tom Beer. Denver received Jim Whalen, adding an experienced pass catcher to its roster without surrendering draft capital. The available outcome does not show a major long-term advantage from the move, so a C captures useful but limited value. That return supports a C grade for Denver Broncos. The final verdict is Even Trade.

Buffalo Bills received 1971 eighth round pick (#183-Louis Ross), while New England Patriots received Ray Jacobs. Buffalo sent Ray Jacobs to Boston and received the 1971 eighth-round choice used at No. 183 on Louis Ross. Jacobs' Patriots stay was brief and later interrupted by a serious back injury, while Ross at least reached NFL regular-season action after Buffalo drafted him. Buffalo Bills earns a C+ grade, and the overall verdict is Buffalo Bills Win.

New England Patriots received Karl Henke in the exchange with New York Jets. The historical record shows how the player service and draft value developed after the deal, with the comparison favoring New England Patriots. That result supports a B- for New England Patriots. The grade reflects the stronger realized return and keeps the judgment proportional to the documented value produced by this transaction.

Buffalo Bills received 1970 sixth round pick (#135-Grant Guthrie) in the exchange with New England Patriots. The sixth-round choice became No. 135 Grant Guthrie, who gave Buffalo a shorter and less efficient kicking stint than the multi-season value Janik supplied in New England. Against New England Patriots' return of Tom Janik, that result supports a C grade. The transaction is judged as New England Patriots Win, with the mark based on the football value that actually followed from the deal.

Boston acquired Ken Herock from Cincinnati on August 14, 1969, with the stored return to Cincinnati listed as cash. Herock played six games for Boston in 1969 after Cincinnati waived him, giving the Patriots some low-cost roster value. In hindsight, the grades are C for Cincinnati Bengals and C+ for New England Patriots, producing a New England Patriots Win verdict. The modest scoring reflects the limited scale of the transaction.

Boston acquired Ezell Jones from the Jets in August 1969 for a future draft choice. The compensation can now be identified as the Jets' 1970 fifth-round selection, No. 108, which became Cliff McClain. Jones did not generate value comparable to McClain's later rushing contribution for New York, so the Patriots' side falls short despite receiving a usable veteran player in the original exchange.

Miami acquired linebacker Nick Buoniconti from Boston for linebacker John Bramlett, quarterback Kim Hammond and Miami's 1970 fifth-round choice, later used on Bob Olson. Buoniconti immediately became the organizing force of a defense that would anchor three straight Super Bowl teams and the perfect 1972 Dolphins, turning a modest three-asset package into one of the franchise's defining trades.

Boston acquired Sid Blanks, Larry Carwell, Ron Caveness, and Charlie Frazier from Houston for Leroy Mitchell and a 1970 second-round pick. The four-player package supplied immediate roster depth, and Patriots records explicitly document the exchange. None of the incoming players became a long-term franchise cornerstone, however, while giving up a second-round selection reduced the value of the quantity Boston received. Houston therefore keeps the slight edge.

New England Patriots received Ezell Jones in the exchange with New York Jets. The historical record shows how the player service and draft value developed after the deal, with the comparison favoring New York Jets. That result supports a C for New England Patriots. The grade reflects the less valuable realized return and keeps the judgment proportional to the documented value produced by this transaction.

Buffalo acquired running back Bob Cappadona, with the duplicate spelling removed so the return correctly contains one player. Cappadona started seven games for the Bills and produced 364 scrimmage yards with three touchdowns, giving Buffalo tangible short-term value from a ninth-round price. That production is enough to support a B- grade and makes Buffalo the stronger side of the 1968 exchange.

Las Vegas Raiders received 1969 sixth round pick (#136-Ken Newfield) in the exchange with New England Patriots. The historical record shows how the player service and draft value developed after the deal, with the comparison favoring New England Patriots. That result supports a D for Las Vegas Raiders. The grade reflects the less valuable realized return and keeps the judgment proportional to the documented value produced by this transaction.

The Jets traded quarterback Mike Taliaferro to Boston for veteran Babe Parilli on July 20, 1968. Parilli became Joe Namath's backup for the Super Bowl III champions and stayed two seasons, while Taliaferro started seven games for Boston in 1968 and all 14 in 1969. New York received experienced insurance for a title run; Boston received a younger starter. The different roles produced comparable value, making the exchange even.

Kansas City sent running back Gene Thomas to Boston on June 11, 1968, for the Patriots’ 1969 fourth-round selection, No. 84 overall. The Chiefs later used that same pick in the deal that brought Curley Culp from Denver, turning the asset into a future Hall of Fame defensive lineman. That downstream value gives Kansas City the edge even though the original return was only a fourth-round choice.

Boston/New England Patriots received Don Trull from Houston Oilers, giving up 1968 ninth round pick (#224-Bob Robertson). New England acquired Don Trull as an immediate quarterback option. The move added depth, but the available record does not show enough lasting impact to push the Patriots above a C on this transaction. That return supports a C grade for Boston/New England Patriots. The final verdict is Tennessee Titans Win.

Miami sent quarterback Eddie Wilson to Boston for cash on July 10, 1967. Wilson had entered the Dolphins through the expansion draft but spent 1966 on injured reserve, making the deal a low-risk attempt by Boston to add veteran quarterback depth. Miami wins because it received cash for a player who retired almost immediately after the move. Boston's cost was not enormous, but the absence of any regular-season return makes the Patriots' side a clear miss.

Boston Patriots received veteran receiver Jim Colclough from New York Jets for the 1967 third round pick that became No. 74 Henry King. Colclough returned to Boston and played 42 regular-season games from 1966 through 1968, producing 38 receptions for 683 yards. King played one NFL season for New York, appearing in 13 games with one start. The longer and more productive return supports a New England Patriots Win.

Kansas City sent halfback Ron Burton to Boston for linebacker-punter Jim Fraser on January 29, 1966. Boston's own media guide describes Fraser as arriving from Kansas City in exchange for Burton, closing the player-for-player package. Boston wins because Fraser contributed for a full season while Burton never reached the Chiefs' regular-season roster. Kansas City traded away a useful veteran and received no game value in return, making the outcome fairly decisive.

Boston acquired quarterback John Huarte from the New York Jets on December 20, 1965, sending veteran receiver Jim Colclough and the draft rights to fourth-rounder Jim Waskiewicz. Huarte produced little for Boston, while Colclough was already an established AFL receiver and continued his career in New York. The Jets received the stronger realized football return.

New York received Jim Colclough and the 1966 AFL pick used on Jim Waskiewicz. Colclough never played a Jets regular-season game, but New York traded him back to Boston for the 1967 third-rounder used on Henry King; Waskiewicz appeared in 27 Jets games. New England got 18 games and zero starts from John Huarte, with only 88 passing yards. The Jets win the concrete-return comparison, C+ to D+.

New York sent linebacker Mike Dukes to Boston on September 27, 1965 for the Patriots' 1966 eleventh-round choice. The draft trail identifies that selection as No. 91, used by the Jets on Gerry Allen. The exchange stays even. Boston obtained short-term veteran help at a low draft cost, while New York recovered a usable selection. Neither side generated enough lasting value to create a clear winner.

Kansas City Chiefs received 1967 2nd round pick (47th overall, Jim Lynch) and cash in the 1964-12-30 exchange with New England Patriots. Jim Lynch became a 151-game Chiefs linebacker, a Super Bowl IV starter and a Chiefs Hall of Honor member. That gives Kansas City Chiefs the stronger overall return.

Boston acquired veteran lineman Bob Schmidt from the Houston Oilers for the 1965 AFL second-round choice that became No. 15 Ralph Neely. Schmidt played all 14 games for the Patriots in 1964 and started four. Neely became an outstanding Dallas tackle, but never played a regular-season game for Houston. The Patriots therefore received the direct on-field return from this exchange and earn a narrow historical win.

Denver Broncos received Billy Lott. The locked Wave 209 research supports the D grade after comparing the direct production and draft value attributable to this transaction. The evaluation excludes unrelated later moves and unsupported assumptions. Against New England Patriots, that documented return supports the final verdict of Even Trade.

Buffalo acquired Boston's 1965 AFL 10th-round choice for defensive end Mack Yoho and used No. 79 on Chuck Mercein. Mercein instead entered the NFL with the New York Giants and never played for Buffalo, while Yoho's major-league playing record ends with the Bills in 1963 and shows no Patriots regular-season appearance. Neither acquiring club realized field production, making the exchange even rather than a Buffalo win.

Denver acquired Walt Cudzik from New England as part of the consideration for the draft rights to quarterback Jack Concannon. Concannon was the Patriots' first overall AFL selection but signed with Philadelphia in the NFL instead, leaving New England without the intended quarterback value. Denver at least received a usable player, giving the Broncos the modest hindsight advantage.

Denver and Boston exchanged premium 1964 AFL draft position on November 1, 1963. Boston received the No. 1 overall choice, while Denver received the No. 4 choice, the No. 20 third-round choice and a player to be named later. The trade remains near even because both clubs acquired valuable rights without turning them into a franchise-changing AFL return. Denver got more pieces, while Boston got the premier selection. The ultimate on-field payoff was limited on both sides.

Las Vegas Raiders received Dick Klein from New England Patriots. The Raiders received Dick Klein and obtained the more identifiable direct football return from the exchange. Klein gave Oakland usable player value rather than merely a contingent or financial return. That outcome supports a C+ grade for Las Vegas Raiders. The final verdict is Las Vegas Raiders Win, based on the football value the club actually realized from the assets it controlled after the exchange.

From Boston/New England Patriots's side, the exchange delivered cash in return for Charley Theokas. Theokas did not become a documented regular-season Jets contributor, so New England's cash return proved more useful. That balance supports a C+ grade for Boston/New England Patriots and a D+ for New York Jets, with the final call at New England Patriots Win.

Buffalo purchased linebacker Harry Jacobs from the Boston Patriots in 1963, with historical evidence placing the sale on July 19 rather than January 1. Jacobs then played seven seasons for the Bills and contributed to their 1964 and 1965 AFL championship teams. That long-term return makes Buffalo the decisive winner, graded A- to D+.

Los Angeles Chargers received 1964 fifth round pick (#36-Pete Goimarac). The Chargers received the 1964 fifth-round choice used on Pete Goimarac, but the selection did not produce an AFL or NFL playing career. Hudson's limited Patriots service still exceeded the outcome of a Chargers draft pick that produced no professional playing return. That outcome supports a D+ grade for Los Angeles Chargers.

Kansas City sent tackle Gerry DeLucca to Boston on April 12, 1963 for a future high draft choice. Chiefs and Patriots histories connect the return to Boston's 1964 twelfth-round selection, No. 93, which Kansas City used on Jack Adams. Boston gets the slight edge because it bought veteran line help for a very late selection. Kansas City did recover a pick, so the deal was not costly, but the Patriots received the more immediate and identifiable football value.

Buffalo acquired Jerry DeLucca from Boston on September 4, 1962 for future draft compensation whose exact selection remains unresolved. DeLucca immediately appeared in all 14 Bills games in 1962 and returned for two more in 1963. That direct roster contribution gives Buffalo the modest edge, while the unidentified Patriots return keeps the Bills' grade below the top range.

Dallas Texans received rights to Bill Hull in the 1962-03-26 exchange with New England Patriots. The Dallas Texans received the rights to Bill Hull, who played for the 1962 Dallas AFL club and gave the franchise a legitimate return from the exchange. The direct package is the basis for the hindsight grade, with later movement of an acquired selection treated separately. That supports New England Patriots Win.

New England Patriots received Dick Felt from New York Jets in the 1962-01-26 trade. The New York Titans acquired Butch Songin. New York Jets's return was Ed Songin / Butch Songin. Boston acquired Dick Felt, who played all 14 games in 1962, started 13, intercepted five passes and earned Pro Bowl and second-team All-Pro recognition. Those realized outcomes, rather than the labels on the assets alone, drive the hindsight grade.

Buffalo sent Ed Buckingham to Boston in August 1961 for a future draft asset whose exact downstream identity remains uncertain. Pro Football Archives dates the move to August 3, while draft reconstruction uses August 4 and tentatively links the return to the 1962 No. 86 selection associated with Tom Pennington. Buckingham was released by Boston less than two weeks later, so the Patriots received very little lasting player value.

Los Angeles Chargers received Tom Greene. The locked Wave 209 research supports the D grade after comparing the direct production and draft value attributable to this transaction. The evaluation excludes unrelated later moves and unsupported assumptions. Against New England Patriots, that documented return supports the final verdict of Even Trade.

Denver received Art Hauser and Bill Striegal in the four-player 1961 exchange. Hauser gave the Broncos one season of substantial playing time, while Striegal's broader impact was limited. The package produced some usable service but no long-term franchise-changing value, leaving Denver close to neutral when compared with what Boston received.

Oakland received Dick Christy, Hal Smith, and Alan Miller. Miller became the strongest part of the package and supplied productive multi-year backfield work for the Raiders. The return gave Oakland genuine value and keeps the trade from being one-sided. Even so, none of the three matched the franchise-level impact New England received from quarterback Babe Parilli over seven seasons.

Boston/New England Patriots received Houston Antwine from Houston Oilers, giving up 1962 fourth round pick (#30-Gary Cutsinger). Boston received Houston Antwine, an immediate defensive-line piece. The preserved grading for this historical exchange remains conservative at C, reflecting the narrow scope of this transaction record rather than assigning value from unrelated later moves. That return supports a C grade for Boston/New England Patriots. The final verdict is Tennessee Titans Win.

Buffalo Bills received Wray Carlton in the exchange with Boston/New England Patriots. Wray Carlton became Buffalo's leading rusher in the franchise's inaugural season and topped 1,000 yards from scrimmage. He later remained part of the Bills' championship-era teams, creating both immediate production and lasting franchise value. In hindsight, that direct outcome supports a A- grade for Buffalo Bills. The judgment focuses on what this transaction itself produced rather than unrelated later moves.

Denver Broncos received Gordy Holz. The locked Wave 209 research supports the A- grade after comparing the direct production and draft value attributable to this transaction. The evaluation excludes unrelated later moves and unsupported assumptions. Against New England Patriots, that documented return supports the final verdict of Denver Broncos Win.

Boston traded the AFL rights to tackle Ron Mix to the Los Angeles Chargers for quarterback Tom Greene. Mix became a nine-time All-AFL selection, helped the Chargers win the 1963 AFL championship and entered the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Greene played only 11 professional games with two starts, creating one of the largest possible gaps in realized value.