New England sent New Orleans a 1984 fourth-round pick in…
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
- pick 1983 ninth round pick (#233- Ricky Williams )
- pick 1983 tenth round pick (#265-Toby Williams)
- pick 1983 eleventh round pick (#292-Steve Parker)
- pick 1983 twelfth round pick (#319-Waddell Kelly)
New Orleans Saints Received
- pick 1984 fourth round pick (#97-Joel Hilgenberg)
Trade Analysis
Why New England Collected Extra Picks
The Patriots converted a future fourth-round selection into four late choices in the 1983 draft: Nos. 233, 265, 292 and 319. That gave New England multiple chances to find depth immediately rather than wait a year for one player. The picks became Ricky Williams, Toby Williams, Steve Parker and Waddell Kelly.
What the Patriots Received
The package was not worthless. Toby Williams, in particular, had a legitimate NFL career and provided defensive-line snaps. Still, none of the four selections developed into a cornerstone for New England. The approach created quantity, but the combined direct impact remained limited compared with what the outgoing future pick became.
How New Orleans Used the Future Choice
The Saints held the Patriots' 1984 fourth-rounder and selected Iowa center Joel Hilgenberg at No. 97. Hilgenberg spent his entire 10-year playing career with New Orleans, appeared in 142 games, made 97 starts and earned a Pro Bowl selection. He later entered the Saints Hall of Fame and became one of the most durable linemen in franchise history.
Why the Saints Win
New Orleans traded four low-probability selections for one future pick and hit on a long-term starter. The Patriots' volume strategy produced some useful football, so their side deserves more than a failing grade. Hilgenberg's decade of service, however, dwarfs the lasting New England return.
Final Verdict
New Orleans earns an A and New England a C+. The Saints converted a fourth-round asset into a foundational center with 97 starts and franchise honors. New England gained depth from its four-pick package, but not enough to approach Hilgenberg's sustained value.