New England Patriots: Bill Belichick’s Top 10 Trades

Oct 9, 2016; Cleveland, OH, USA; New England Patriots strong safety Patrick Chung (23) during warmups before the game against the Cleveland Browns at FirstEnergy Stadium. The Patriots won 33-13. Mandatory Credit: Scott R. Galvin-USA TODAY Sports

6. Shipped QB Matt Cassel and LB Mike Vrabel to the Kansas City Chiefs for a 2nd round pick

The previously mentioned Cassel became a valuable asset as many teams in the NFL were looking for a quarterback.

Belichick and New England of course had their star back in Tom Brady, and they knew Cassel was not next in line for the job (imagine Cassel still here 7 years later).

Linebacker Mike Vrabel was a fan favorite, but was towards the end of his career. Both were sent to the Kansas City Chiefs in exchange for a lone 2nd round pick.

The pick was then used to draft safety Patrick Chung. Though Chung later left the team, he is back now in a starting role.

Jun 14, 2016; Cincinnati, OH, USA; A Cincinnati Bengals helmet during minicamp at Paul Brown Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Aaron Doster-USA TODAY Sports

5. A 2nd round pick for RB Corey Dillon

In 2004 the Patriots finally got a star running back. The Cincinnati Bengals sent Corey Dillon to New England for a 2nd round pick, a steal for mastermind Bill Belichick.

Dillon set career highs and franchise records with 1,635 rushing yards and 12 touchdowns. He was a major factor in the Patriots win over the Colts in New England’s first playoff game, rushing for 144 yards and catching 5 passes for 17 yards.

New England then won its third Super Bowl against the Eagles. Dillon remained in New England for two more seasons, but injuries limited his production.