New Orleans acquired tight end David Thomas from New England…
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
- pick 2011 6th round pick (189th overall subsequently traded, Mike Mohamed)
New Orleans Saints Received
- player David Thomas
Trade Analysis
Why New Orleans Wanted Thomas
The Saints acquired David Thomas from New England just before the 2009 season. The compensation was a conditional 2011 late-round pick, with performance thresholds determining the final round. Thomas met the condition that elevated the return to a sixth-round selection, ultimately No. 189. New Orleans wanted a versatile tight end who could complement Jeremy Shockey in multiple packages.
What Thomas Gave the Saints
Thomas became a dependable role player immediately. He appeared in 15 games during the 2009 regular season, started eight and caught 35 passes for 356 yards and a touchdown. He remained with New Orleans through 2012, finishing his Saints tenure with 48 appearances and 25 starts while contributing as a receiver, in-line tight end and movable offensive piece.
What New England Received
The Patriots ultimately received the 189th pick in the 2011 draft. New England later reused that selection in another transaction, preserving some flexibility rather than simply spending the pick. That was sensible asset management for a player outside the core plan, but the resulting Patriots value did not match four seasons of useful Saints playing time.
Why This Trade Still Matters
Role players can be especially valuable to championship teams when the acquisition cost is modest. Thomas never needed to become a star for the trade to work. New Orleans obtained a trusted contributor during the Super Bowl XLIV season and kept him for three additional years, all for one late future selection.
Final Verdict
New Orleans Saints Win. The Saints earn a B+ for Thomas' longevity, versatility and championship-season contribution. New England receives a C+ for recovering and later reusing a sixth-round asset. The Patriots' logic was reasonable, but the direct football production and duration of the return clearly favor New Orleans.