Belichick's Genius Strikes Again: The Patriots Trade Pro Bowl DE Seymour

In a stunning move, the Patriots traded five time Pro Bowler Richard Seymour to the Oakland Raiders. Many Patriots fans, who remember Seymour for his contributions in all three Super Bowl victories, are asking: WHY?! While the answer takes some effort to uncover, the sports world shall soon realize that the move makes perfect sense. Although Richard Seymour was a key part of the Patriots defense, and still would be this year, his trade-away sets up the Patriots for many more years of success. First, the reasons why Seymour was the player chosen for the trade: The fearsome defensive end was in the final year of a contract with a 3.685 million dollar cap hit. Now, the Patriots have more space under the salary cap. This year, the Patriots have effectively switched their base defensive package to a 4-3 formation. Seymour's value was primarily in the 3-4, where he was effective as a run container even more than a pass rusher. In a 4-3, his talents, although still incredible, are not...