Richard Seymour Goes to the Patriots

Was the decision to move five-time Pro Bowl defensive lineman Richard Seymour another in a long line of better trades for the New England Patriots? Or is this one time where wily ol' Al Davis got the better end of the deal? While that answer probably won't become obvious for years to come, there's no doubt that the decision to move Seymour sent shock waves through professional football.

Why would such a blockbuster move be considered a better trade for New England? After all, they lose a big piece of the defense, which was instrumental in helping the team win three Super Bowl titles. Seymour was the team's No. 1 draft pick in 2001 (the sixth pick overall) and has been a standout at the tackle and end positions. A powerful pass rusher, Seymour had 39 sacks during his tenure with the Patriots; he had eight in 2008.

Shedding Seymour was the latest in a series of defensive changes undertaken by the Patriots. They traded linebacker Mike Vrabel to the Chiefs in the off-season. Safety Rodney Harrison and linebacker Teddy Bruschi retired, leaving Seymour the last member of the defense that won the 2001 Super Bowl. Seymour will celebrate his 30th birthday during the 2009-10 season and in the final year of a contract that pays him $3.685 million.

The Oakland Raiders believe they made a better trade to acquire Seymour, who looks even more imposing while wearing the team's silver and black colors. The Raiders gave up a first-round draft pick to obtain the former University of Georgia standout, but they considered that a bargain in order to help put a lid on one of the worst rushing defenses in the NFL. Since going to the 2002 Super Bowl (which no doubt seems like an eternity for the once proud organization) the Raiders have allowed an average of 141.7 yards per game and have permitted an opposing back to rush for 100 yards or more in half their games over the three previous seasons.

The Patriots and Raiders, two original members of the AFL, have been regular better trades partners. The Raiders traded two-time Pro Bowl defensive end Derrick Burgess to New England for two draft picks earlier this summer. And the Pats are still thanking Oakland for the gift of Randy Moss, who came in 2007 for a fourth-round pick.

Seymour will be missed, said New England linebacker Jerod Mayo. "He was a quiet leader. He led by his actions. He'll be dearly missed as a teammate and as player on the field."