NFL Trade Verdict
New England Patriots Win
New England moved in the 2003 draft with Carolina and came away with the stronger value chain. Carolina's Bruce Nelson selection did not produce on-field value, while New England's side connected to useful pick value and eventual Asante Samuel value. The Patriots win clearly.
Carolina Panthers Received
- pick 2003 2nd round pick (50th overall, Bruce Nelson ) and 2003 4th round pick (120th overall subsequently traded, Asante Samuel )
New England Patriots Received
- pick 2003 2nd round pick (45th overall, Bethel Johnson )
Trade Analysis
Carolina did not get meaningful return from Bruce Nelson, while New England produced the better asset path. The Patriots also received stronger draft positioning and downstream value. The outcome favors New England by a wide margin.