Vrabel trade confirmed

For what????????????????

Thanks Mike, for everything - you were one of the best all around players.

As I said in the other thread, I really hope this is part of a trade involving Cassel.

great trade...well done. People need to stop thinking with their gut. Vrabel is old and didnt have a good year last year. This will clear cap space to re-sign guys like Wilfork who mean much more to the team then a washed up Vrabel.

Wow.. This is crazy. Mike didn't seem too enthusiastic about the move. What might the trade intail ?

Mike, what's the draft pick and is this part of a larger Cassel trade?

I hope Bill knows what he's doing. A sad day for Patriots fans. Mr. Vrabel, we will miss you!

Ouch.... does not sound like he is too happy about it. I hope it was an amicable parting of ways...It must suck to go from a contender to a door mat.

For what? A third rounder? Max. He may have been slipping, but I don't see the value.

Wow... is this a move to cl;ear cap space for a potential trade with Carolina? Cassell for Peppers?

interesting. sad. best to Mike but what did we Garner for this fine, though aged LB? Is this part of a larger KC trade (he hoped) for cassel?

Thanks for a good run, Mike! And best of luck in KC.

Blasphemy!

I'm hearing this was a "friendship deal" that netted the Pats a 4th or 5th round pick.

I am perplexed by this move. I can only assume something big is in the works...

thats great but for what

So long Vrabel. I think this was a smart but costly move by the Patriots front office. If the deal includes a 3rd round draft pick, then it was an exceptional move, but losing Vrabel for a 4th or worse may not have been worth it. He has aged and this will help the Patriots get younger, but the question is at what cost?

First Paxton, now Vrabel, next is Heath Evans.. some tough losses for the team and the fans.

Nice, Any idea on what is coming back in return? Moving Cassel down there as well? Football hotstove so much better than baseball. Today rules!

What the heck??? There better be a whole lot more to this story ... like a boatload of draft picks and/or star players from KC!

I am very sad to see Vrabel go, I wish him luck.

i would love to see what kansas city gave up...

Pioli knows how important veteran leadership is and probably paid for it with this deal.

Mr. Clutch on D. Great guy and big loss, however, time marches on and it can't stay 2007 for more than one year. Thanks Mike we truly respect your game! And your character.

I think I'm gonna throw up...

I'm not sure how I feel about this. The man was an amazing player for us, but at the same time, he looked to take a step back last season. I'm pretty sure it clears some cap space, and I would venture a guess that we're trying to get younger and faster. Still, the leadership he provides, and his friendships with the rest of the team make me wonder how some of our other guys will react. They might not be too happy we traded one of the team's best leaders. I also would be surprised if his tank is really empty. He's the type of player who always seems to have that little bit left.

John Clayton at ESPN says they dealt Vrabel for picks.

Hopefully it saves them some cap space and they get some value for him.
Thanks for all your hard work Mike, good luck!!

His production has fallen off. If he cannot rush the passer than what value is he at his cap number?
Continue the youth movement in the LB corps. The only way the Pats are going to improve the pass defense is going to be by improving the pass rush. Bring in some young buck to come off the edge with intensity.
Sorry to see Mike go, but you have to produce.

This unfortunatley makes business sense, but man will I miss watching this guy play. Thanks for the great memories Mike - especially the hit on Warner in the SB allowing TY to take it to the house!

This HAS to be the first domino falling. Julius Peppers?! The thought of him bookending with Thomas as ridiculously athletic 3-4 OLBs is pretty damn appetizing.

This sucks. Mike deserved better from the Patriots.

Best Wishes Mike, and thanks for your contribution to our Super Bowls.

Vrabes was a great competitor, team mate & goal line receiver. (Ha!) Mike gave us 8 great years. He will be missed.

So what did we get for him?

If it's any less than KC's 2nd rounder I'm calling for heads to roll.

Everyone relax.. they traded the 2009 Mike Vrabel not the 2003 Vrabel. Hold off judgement until we see who else they bring in.

I would like to think they've traded him for a 3rd, which would then get barrelled in with Cassell and their own 3rd for Peppers. But I'd be wishing. Still though, surely this means they're either going for a OLB in the draft or have their eyes on someone in FA. I can't for the life of me see who that would be though.

NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

MY FAVORITE PLAYER IS GONE!!!!!!!!! FROM MY HOME TEAM, AND MY HOME TOWN!!!

I just might shed a tear later...

Man, no silver lining to this one - Vrabel is one of the main figureheads of the Patriots superbowl run. I'll always have very fond memories of watching him play, and regardless of what the Patriots get back, I'm extremely disappointed to see this happen.

Good luck in KC, Mike. You know the AFC West is full of crap teams, so hopefully you'll be able to finish your career on a high statistical note.

No matter how you break down the trade, the Patriots still have that turd Mike Schuster as their Frontman Fan. Insert Ozzyface here.

Loved Mike Vrabel but he disappeared for long stretches last year. He seemingly only has one pass rush move, the speed move around the tackle and that seemed to get consistently shut down this past season. He is a great leader and a great Patriot.

Got to love BB. There are no sacred cows. I hope we keep Brady, but for those of you saying it would never happen, take note.

The linebacker they should have gotten rid of is Bruschi that guy has been hurting them for years. His last good year was 2000, since then he has been the type of LB runners run towards.

Somebody said, "I hope Bill knows what he's doing..."
Like three super bowl rings and four AFC titles havn't convinced you yet?

Too bad... The Pats will miss him, as will the fans!

Thank you VERY much Mike! Those touchwon catches were amazing as was your D.

This trade is horrible. Logan Sollman do you know your butt from your elbow. He's been as productive as anybody. So last year wasn't stellar for him and that eclispses all the other great things he's done while here. This SUX and I hate that he's been traded. While I do usually have the utmost faith in Belichick, but I am not so sure about this. I am all for waiting and seeing, but hate to say it people, usually trades like this bite us in the butt later on.

Now we know why they resigned Tully Banta-Cain.

Tully doesn't have the versatility of Mike Vrabel, but he's a better pure pass rusher.

Maybe this doesn't mean they're getting rid of Cassel. Maybe it means just the opposite - they're freeing up cap space so they can keep Cassel for one more year, just in case.

They do need to get younger, just saw Vrabel retiring in New England.

Mike was a great guy and player and gave his all. Hate to see him go.He certainly gave me geat times over the years. All the best Mike.
Unfortunately all things change.
John m. Pats fan from 1960.
Go Pats

Trade BRADY and the impending circus side show...that's next I'd wager.

Unfortunately, still a business. Mike, we'll always remember your contributions to the team!

WHYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYY :)

This looks to me like making room for Cushing or Matthews from USC with their first rounder, doesn't it? Thanks for the effort over the years Mike--it wasn't lost on us, and much respected.

The Patriots are one of the best organizations in football simply because they are not afraid to make the tough decisions regarding personal. I too will miss Mike and what he brought to this team but at the same time I realize that nobody on this team, including Brady, is more important than the team as a whole and that anybody can be traded at anytime. Have faith in this franchise and you too shall be rewarded!

Mike, I will truly miss you.

Good luck Mike in KC. You were a great team player with leadership and a valuable mentor for the younger guys through out your career. KC will NOT regret this trade.

Don't worry we still have blown off the ball Tedy B. What a joke! Can we say hello to Mr. peppers?? In Bill we trust. I don't know why Pats fan are surprise, Bill always get rid of players who are getting long in the tooth. Ask Adam, Ty and the rest of the player that has been moved. Thanks Mike.

Don't worry we still have blown off the ball Tedy B. What a joke! Can we say hello to Mr. peppers?? In Bill we trust. I don't know why Pats fan are surprise, Bill always get rid of players who are getting long in the tooth. Ask Adam, Ty and the rest of the player that has been moved. Thanks Mike.

This is more indefensible than Law or Milloy or Samuel.

Absolutely stupifying move even for a 3rd rounder.

Wow, what do u say to that but lets wait and see what the Pats do. They always have something up the sleeve. The big question is what are they gonna do with Cassel and if they do trade him the even bigger question is what will they get for a guy like him?

are you kidding me? Give me a break. Bad move on the Pats part. Mike was great and will be missed.

It was always very cool to see Vrabel running out onto the field with the offense, and hearing the ref announce, "Number is 50 is lined up as an eligible receiver."

I will miss rooting for my favorite player on the Patriots team!

Crap

Well, I adore Mr. Vrabel and hope he has a great time in KC--but his time has passed all. In football: IN BILL I TRUST.
It has been quite an interesting post season so far.

I'll miss the leadership and the ability to sub in on an offensive play that Vrabes gave us...he is a great player and still has some wind left in his sails. This is a win-win for KC...an yet to be determined for the Pats!

Mike Vrabel wes a great Patriot but we have to move forward. Id this any worse than cutting Lawyer Miloy. We got nothing for him. The management of the team has a great track record of knowing when to say good bye. I loved watching mike play and the memories will remain. We needed to get younher and faster on Defense.

Good luck Mike. a very classy guy with brains and multiple talents. A strong clubhouse guy with a great work ethic. We will hear more from im over the years as he is surely to head up a program of his own someday.

Wow! what a great day for Boston sports (sarcasm). The pats give away Mike Vrabel to KC, the Celts sign Stephon Marbury (who is four times the cancer than Manny Ramirez ever was), and Tom Brady marries Yoko Ono ( I mean GiseleB).

To paraphrase Hyman Roth in "The Godfather":
"When I heard about the Vrabel trade....I wasn't angry....I knew Mike, I knew he was getting older, slipping a bit....so when it happened....I LET IT GO!! And I said to myself and my fellow Patriot fans: THIS IS THE BUSINESS THEY'VE CHOSEN!!!
I didn't ASK....who ordered the trade. Because it had NOTHING TO DO WITH
BUSINESS!!!!

I just threw up in my mouth.......

The Pats have the absolute oldest linebackers in the NFL, so this is the beginning of major changes. His best days are gone!! Like trading Pedro when he was on the downside, no big deal, business is business. So when you pay $175 for a jersey, you are a fan, and a sucker!!

one of the classiest guys to ever come through the Pats' locker room. eventhough he went to ohio state, he's still one of my favorite football players of all time. rock on Vrabes

Mike was a crowd/team favorite; however, pro atheletes are expendable 24/7.....one in----one out......good luck to Mike Vrabel.

Mike was a crowd/team favorite; however, pro atheletes are expendable 24/7.....one in----one out......good luck to Mike Vrabel.

Nah Nah Nah Nah,,, Nah Nha Nha Nah,,,, Hey Hey Hey,,, PEACE OUT!!!

Mike was a crowd/team favorite; however, pro atheletes are expendable 24/7.....one in----one out......good luck to Mike Vrabel.

"I hope Bill knows what he's doing."

Three Super Bowls later (four appearances), and you STILL don't know the answer to that?

The Head Cheat had better hope he gets Connor Barwin with this pick, and that the kid lives up to the hype. Watch it turn out that Pioli was the genius all along.
Good luck, Mike--you will always be a Patriot to us.

The Head Cheat had better hope he gets Connor Barwin with this pick, and that the kid lives up to the hype. Watch it turn out that Pioli was the genius all along.
Good luck, Mike--you will always be a Patriot to us.

I don't know what I am more upset about the thousands of dollars I lost on BAC today or the loss of Mike Vrabel.... OOOOWWWWWWWW!

Sad to hear, but the window on this group of core players is almost shut. If Brady can remove his head from Giselle's ass long enough to concentrate on his football career, they can close down this era with one more ring. How many past their prime ringers will it take to win this year???

Hopefully this is not to make room for Fred Taylor, that would be a horrible move. Vrabel is much more valuable to the Pats than Taylor would be. You'll be missed, Mike.

This is classic Patriots cap management. They have assessed that as great a player as he is, he is on the decline and somewhat overvalued at 4+Mil. Very similar to the Willie McGinest situation. So KC gets veteran leadership and Vrabel probably makes a little more $ and the Pats are thinking toward the draft and lower end free agents to continue to retool and build depth. Dan Snyder could learn something from this.

As much as I like Vrabel, it's time to move on. He played well, was a leader on the team, and the Pats need to get younger at LB. It's too bad, but it's a decision the Pats felt they had to make. We'll see how it impacts their other offseason moves.

Vrabel must hold the record for fewest catches resulting in the most TD's, 8 for 8. Funny that a standout defensive player would be remembered for catching TD's.

We will miss you Mike!!! Thanks for being a great player for us!!!

would you be enthused about going to a crappy team???? Sorry to see you go Mike. You've been a pleasure to watch.

One of the best PATS ever!
Remeber the TD catch vs. Philly in SB!!! Awesome!!

Is it possible that the front office needed to clear cap space after signing Fred Taylor/Chris Baker? Or needed additional space to sign others? Maybe Pioli did them both a favor. He got a clubhouse leader on the cheap and the Pats filled holes at RB, TE.

Who else sacks the opposing quarterback and then catches a touchdown pass from Brady 3 plays later? Say it ain't so.

We'll miss you Vrabes. Thanks for a strong Patriots career. Your jersey should hang in the Patriots Hall-of-Fame in this fan's opinion.

It's probably the right move, freeing up cap space while getting a pick or two. It just hurts a little to ship out a guy that we all loved rooting for.

Great line about Hyman Roth.. Patrick you're my hero..

Anybody who thinks this is for anything more than a fourth rounder is kidding themselves. I would suspect a fifth.

Love Mike Sorry to see him go - Hope to see him coaching in the future when he wraps up playing.

Awful. Just awful.

Charger fan here. I have mixed feelings about this, Mike always played us tough so I'm glad he's gone. On the other hand, now we'll see him 2x/ yr. If you guys get Peppers that would be scary.

Good luck Mike. You were an awesome Patriot. As far as the 2009 Patriots, I'm hoping they're getting younger at linebacker. Watching Bruschi, Vrabel, Seau, and Colvin last year try to chase down RBs and TEs in the open field was frustrating at times.

what a great player he was for this team. He represents what the Pats were (are) this decade. Gritty, talented, smart.

I just threw up on my Babe Parilli poster...

Remember one of Bill B.'s favorite words. He uses it all the time in press conferences and other interviews....PRODUCTION. When he believes you cannot produce, it's hard for him to keep you around. IBWT.

Thanks Mike ... and the devious Mr.Pioli strikes first. I think we're in for a long off season.

Didn't see that one coming.

Thanks for everything Mike. You were a true Patriot.

Good luck in KC.

Hope the Patriots got something for him.

Wow...tough business.

Before you all go limp and fetal, the Patriots gave him an opportunity to win THREE Super Bowl Rings, probably $10-15 million in salary, a Pro Bowl slot, and the lifelong gratitude of Patriot's Nation.

Not bad for a former Steelers back-up.

Mike has game
Mike gained fame
the trade is lame
so far....... I hope it works for both the Pats and Mike
Thanks for all your efforts Mike, you will be missed

It is hard to see Vrabel go. Great pickup from Pittsburgh, and very flexible. But more valuable to a rebuilding KC. Pats needed immediate cap space. We'll see when/where Cassel goes, with more cap space. Hope that Shawn Crable is ready. Is Tedy's retirement next?

Pats are fat with draft picks right now, so lots more to come

This is the beginning of the Kansas City Ex-Patriots....
This is like the exact opposite of the 2008 Red Sox losing to Tampa Bay in the ALCS last year, or as I like to call them, the 2012 Red Sox.

I am shocked by this move but I understand it and if it helps resign Wilfork it was a phenomenal move. I for one am a big fan of Vrabel and will not forget the huge part he played ni the Patriots Super Bowl run. Good luck my friend, I feel bad you will not see the playoffs again unless you go somewhere after KC.

Mike was a great Patriot and he will be missed but we need to get younger and faster. These will free up cash to sign Wilfork and nobody wheels andd eals draft picks betetr than the Pats. My guess is thats it no better than a 4th or 5th which they will trade for a better pick next year.

Great Godfather quote Patrick ! I guess Pioli made BB an offer he couldn't refuse

Don't be sad everyone. The Vrabel you are all crying over was gone before the trade. He's not the same player he was in 2007.

Thanks for the memories, Vrabes! Good luck in K.C.!

Vrabel is a class act - through and through.
We'll miss him off the field as much as on.

Thank you Mike Vrabel for eight amazing years. You were one of my favorite players and I was always glad to see your name every game, a stalwart regular LB we could depend on while most other people were injured and sat out games. The Pats are going to look very different without you. You are a Patriot through and through, and you will be missed by all Pats fans.

Thanks for being a class act Mike. Good luck in KC

I just heard it is Vrabel AND Cassel for a CB and draft picks

3rd round draft pick? You're dreaming. The guy at best will bring maybe a 6th or 7th rounder.

Vrabel was probably the only Ohio State guy I've ever rooted for.

He was the consistent heart and soul of a defense that played above it's talant level as a unit to win 3 Super Bowls even though as individuals none of them were all stars. He'll be a patriot forever with those Super Bowl touch downs off the line....

this trade hurts, but i completely understand why they needed to do it. i just hope they don't trade tedy.. i couldn't handle seeing him in another uniform.

Mike - You were my favorite, the Pats won't be the same without you. Thanks for all you've done for this team! I'm so sad....

Patrick- lol right on.

Sorry to see him go, a true class act.
how are we gonna feel when bruschi goes as well. sigh.
But can see this as definite cap space, im praying we get peppers
Superman on one side ( thats thomas nickname) and Dr Peppers ont he other,
holy shnikes.

Reading the comments already posted just goes to validate the premise that sports talk radio primarily attracts idiots.

Belichick has a good track record at knowing when to cut ties with aging players and move on..no reason to suspect things will be any different this time.

To the moron that suggested that Bruschi should have been traded - buckets of balls aren't what the Patriots need.

Vrabel is on the latter half of the back nine. i only expect one or two more productive seasons from him. Hopefully the return will be a good one.

Hard to understand this move. Why trade Vrabel for a low-round draft pick that will likely be cut during training camp...especially when you have an oak tree playing MLB, wearing No. 54. Keep the wily and wise Bruschi, but trade the wily, wise and still athletic Vrabel? Don't like it. Vrabel can play both outside and inside...Tedy can't. Love the guy, but his best days are way behind him.

I hope this isn't a trend of the chiefs taking boston garbage. You can keep him with the rest of your trash. Go Giants. SHAM

It's sad to see a core player like Vrabel go. He was one of those guys that WAS the Patriots. Unfortunately, he didn't have that good of a year last year but I'm not doggin' him for that, I love the guy. Whatever needed to be done, he did it on defense, offense and special teams. The only outlook is he undisclosed draft pick and $3M free cap space..........anyone heard of Ray Lewis?

Given his history, you have to feel that Bellicek made a good move. HOWEVER..., for me and many fans, it is not strictly about the bottom line. Part of the enjoyment of being a fan is following the carrer of someone who, as he ages strives to overcome the adversity of aging and the inevitable decline in perfomrance. It has been a pleasure rooting for Varbel not only for his performance on the field but for the kind of man he consistently revealed himself to be. Sports are an encapsulation of life and things never stay the same however mjuch we wish they would. The good will Mike Vrable created (and received) is the best measure of someone. That will endure regardless of where he plays football.
Good Luck Mike

This is a business, and his number were way down this year. Fewest tackle, sack, assist, etc. in his career and he play his most minutes. Not good production.

Mike was a class act and his leadership will be missed. Unfortunately this team needs most play makers on defense and Mike kind on disappeared this year.

Wow, I hope everybody remembers this the next time somebody leaves for more money elsewhere and doesn't hate on them. The Pats know how to win, but they are the coldest team in the league.

Very sorry to see him go. Thanks for your professional play and everything you did here Mike.

Thanks for being an incredible Patriot! We will always remember how important you were for our success. But I agree, we need to prepare for the future.

Best to you and your family Mike. We'll all be there to retire the number, Godspeed.

waaaaaaaaahhhhhhhh! Quit your crying you bunch of babies!

Perfect, He was too old. Now it's time to new generation (Mayo, Meriweather etc)
We need to trade Cassel to save more money.

Bring us Pepper!

Good luck Mike, you are a football players football player. I pray that when your playing days come to an end, that you will consider to come back this way to coach.....

I detest Ohio State but loved Vrabel! Godspeed and good luck. I will miss seeing you in a Pats uniform but have retired your jersey to my Wall of Fame.

Everybody who thinks this is a mistake should get a reality slap. Loved Vrabel...we all do. But the Patriots will not continue to win if they become an "Old Age Home" for semi-retired linebackers. Football does not work that way. It's time guys. You know it.

We need to trade CASSEL, not Vrabel. WHAT THE HELL!? He's the leader of the defense, this is crazy!

He was a great player, but the Pat's D needs to get younger and faster. They had no pass rush off the edge. I hate seeing him go, but you can't keep every player you like. I wish Vrabel well in K.C.

Ahhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

This doesn't really add up. If Vrabel's game declined that much why would Pioli take him at age 34 and rebuilding? And it doesn't seem like the Pats more draft picks at least not this year.

End of an era? I guess not if Brady is still here, but Vrabel was a lynchpin. We'll miss you, Mike, good luck and hope you come back sometime!

Vrabel & Cassel for KC's #1

In a matter of a few weeks our government morphs into a Maxist state, now I read that Vrabel is traded. I must be having a hideous nightmare. What's next, Curt Schilling will no longer pitch for the Red Sox? Tell me it ain't so!

What happens when Vrables blows through the Pats O-line and blows up Brady's knee!?

bring in d. brooks now

Thanks for everything, Mike. You were a great Patriot! Very sad to see you go...

In Bill we trust. NUFSED

Can you say....welcome to New England Brad Scott?

Yeah, I got that sick feeling in my stomach when I heard the news too...thanks Mike, you were one of the best all around players I've ever seen and a great Patriot...what's next, Brady back home in the SF Bay area to bring back the Montana-like mystique to the 49ers ?

BB obviously likes the OLB/DE types he's stock piled thus far and the draft appears to be a deep one

This not unlike the Willie McGinnis situation a few years back. Most of us felt badly when he was released, I think. Life went on, Willie went on. The only bigger shock than Vrabel would have been Bruschi, a similar guy well loved by Pats fans.
The bottom line is IN BILL WE TRUST~

This not unlike the Willie McGinnis situation a few years back. Most of us felt badly when he was released, I think. Life went on, Willie went on. The only bigger shock than Vrabel would have been Bruschi, a similar guy well loved by Pats fans.
The bottom line is IN BILL WE TRUST~

WHAT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!?!?!?!??!?!?!?!?!!?!?!?!?!

Seriously, does Bill Belichick want to have an EVEN WORSE defense than last year? It doesn't matter whether Brady or Cassel is QB; without Vrabel, they may let up 35 POINT PER GAME.

For you guys that are saying the Pats did mike wrong,remember this. 1.Mike is going to retire in a year or two.2.After he retiers he wants to coach at Ohio state,he learned from one of the Greatest coaches of all time.3.He leaves with three rings.4.KC can afford to pay him more then New England can.So shut up with that "He got screwed crap". He was great. But this is the NFL and there is a cap. Our list of free agents at the end of this year is scary. So get ready for some more tough choices and stop the crying.

I hate the business side of sports...Vrabel is a great leader and it totally sucks that he has been traded.

I still have a purple tongue from the Kool Aid! Enough said!

Only a solid first round pick or very strong second round pick or an overachieving 3rd round pick will have the impact of a healthy Vrable ... and then they will have to learn the schemes, something that could take months or years to reach even 50% of Vrable's understanding of the BB defense.

Don't understand the move. Count me as a nay-sayer.

34 year old football players....sounds kinda silly. Time to hang 'em up while you can still walk

First Pioli, then Vrabel, possibly Cassell next, and could Belichick follow ? "Goin to Kansas City" Mike, you were an important piece to all 3 Super Bowl Titles. Thanks and Good Luck in KC !

A startling reminder that it is a business. Adios, Mike. Thanks for everything.

It's MORE than talent. There is a reason why the Red Sox NEEDED Tek back regardless of his sub-prime year last season. And there is a reason why the Pats NEED Vrabel. This is not a good move, despite what his stats say.

Good trade get something for him while you can he is on the downside
Too slowwwwwwwww and too old!!!!!!!!

Speed kills we need more speed on defense!!!!!!!!!!!!

bottomline was the aging bruschi, seau, colvin, and vrabel were all exposed in the open field especially by those quick 3rd down backs......it was frustrating and sad to watch at times......i agree with the move...bring on the youth movement...mayo has shown he is an up and coming star.....& we still have the vet in adalius thomas.....look at baltimore and pitts big, tough, and athletic prototype lbs...they have proven that is the prototype and we will get there...

Bummer! Vrabel was the best! How many times did they put him in the end zone, when nobody expected it, and bam, Touchdown! I just read in the comments along the way, Lonnie Paxton is gone too?! Brady could be next! No more Dynasty!

Tough move here...he's a franchise player (like Wilie) it'll hurt to see him play somewhere else!! I understand that this organization stays on top by making the hard decisions but we don't always to have to like them.

Best of luck to Vrabel, he'll be missed.

Thanks Vrabel....always a class act. I will sadly retire my # 50 jersey.

Great Guy. Great Leader. Great Football player. He will be missed.

I bet the Pats decided they need to get younger, faster at Linebacker. Vrabel only had one year left under contract and was a big cap hit. Pioli probably wanted him as a mentor as he builds in KC. So by trading, Pats get cap space and a player/draft pick, and KC gets leadership a mentor. Sounds like a good deal, but I hate to see Vrabel go.

Thanks for three titles Mike !!!

This is a very sad day day for true Pats' fans. Mike bled Patriots blue and was a huge part of the Super Bowl teams. It's not for me to say if he is over the hill or not; but we sure are gonna miss you, Mike. You did everything they asked of you. I am VERY sorry you will not get to end your career like you should, as a PATRIOT! God bless.

Hear and soul of our defense. Stepped up so many times. Had a great year last year with all the injuries we dealt with. Yes, the age factor is a consideration, but...

I really hope BB's got something in the works. Oh, please let it be Julius Peppers.

Why KC? Not fair. Mikey V should've been sent to a decent team and finish out his career with some more successful seasons. Not this way.

Super sad. :( Love Mike Vrabel. He will be missed.

Mike Vrable was always one of my favorite players to watch. Good luck to Mike in the future.

He may have slowed down a bit, but the team seemed pretty thin a linebacker last year, especially when you had to bring in Colvin and Seau at the end of the season to fill in.

Must be something in the works at linebacker to make this deal.

True Warrior Athlete. Gave his body, soul, and talent to our team to help bring us 3 super bowls. Sad day.

Just like the front office guys we have to emotionless in watching some of our best guys move on as they get older or outlive life in this system.

Thank you Mike for all the amazing years, you are a true warrior!

This is what confuses me....Vrabel was a solid player,...a veteran...didn't complain, was a great defensive leader.....and Management trades him to a lousy team. I'm surprised and a bit shocked. KC sucks..what an insult to his accomplishments and ability. Vrabel was a Patriot lifer and a household name. He was the backbone of the Patriot defense. Management should have allowed Vrabel to retire as a Patriot. But, then Management did this to Willie McGinnis too. It's going to be a long time before Patriot fans forget this trade. I think Kraft ought to take some heat for this move!

Great guy. Great career. Can't live in the past. Their defense is too SLOW. A 2nd or a 3rd round pick will net them some youth and speed, either 09 or '10 draft/ or they may package the draft picks in a trade.

They need to make some moves on defense to get younger and faster. Draft class is deep on LB's as well.

THANKS MIKE - YOU ARE THE MAN!

shoulda just cut Bruschi

and thus the off season of knuckle head moves begins.....

No, no, no....

Intangibles. Leadership. Work ethic. Community. Fan friendly. Dedicated. Coach-able. Productive

You just can't get that stuff in the NFL for $4.3M these days.

No, no, no ...

Aww, geez. Thanks for ruining my weekend. We will sure miss ya, Vrabel. The Patriots Hall of Fame will have spot reserved for you, under unselfish and versatile. If you did not like Mike Vrabel, you probably do not like football. BB got every ounce out of him. I know he is getting old, but man, it will not be right seeing him in another uniform.

DAMN DAMN DAMN!! Sad to see you go Mike :-(

This is the Patriot way. You move an aging veteran to free up cap space and to allow a younger player (Shawn Crabel or Pierre Woods) to get on the field and grow into the next Mike Vrabel or Willie McGinest.

Unless they gave him away (less than a 4th rounder) I am not upset with the move.

horrible...at least send him to a good team...sad real sad...

In Bill We Trust.

Thanks for a great career, Mike.

I think time and time again Bill B. has shown he has no idea what he is doing.

Everyone knows you win year after year by being sentimental and hanging on to your aging stars.

Everyone on here is right on with their outrage.

Connor Barwin out of Cincinatti. He's a Vrabel clone who runs a 4.5-4.6 in space. Don't be surprised if they find a way to draft him.

Consider this. Redskins sign Haynesworth to a huge deal putting them way over the cap. They have to cut someone. Jason Taylor plays the same position as Haynesworth who plays the same position as Vrabel. Vrabel is traded opening up his position. Jason loves Belichick- Bill loves Jason. Do the math- Taylor is in the Pats training camp when it opens. Not sure if this is good or bad for the Pats but it makes sense.

Funny, Chiefs wanted to get a veteren and he was one of the younger linbackers. Not only great on defense and offense when called upon he was definatly a PATRIOT (verstle) team guy and one of Tommy's best friends on the team, hope this does not adversly effect him.

I'm sorry to see Mike go. He was a under rated player and a great team guy! I still believe he was the true MVP of super bowl 38! I hope this means a bigger trade on the horizon?

Better be at least an early 3rd rounder!

Hello to all ! Greetings From Poland. Great and vaulable site. KBGKBG

Just like we did when we lost Willie, Adam, Lawyer, Ty, etc.....you gotta have trust in Bill. Vrabes will not get MORE valuable, but he might be much LESS valued after this year. The LB core needed a major overhaul, and dont be surprised if Bruschi is next. You gotta be willing to cut the strings of aging veterans. I will be very excited to see if Peppers is brought in as an OLB. But I also think they are counting on Crable, Tully, and others to step up. Who knows? One thing I do know is that BB is right way more than he is wrong, and I say GOOD LUCK to Vrabel, we will miss you.

Today was a dark day for local sports fans. We lost a great team player in Mike and the Celtics picked up a player who disgraces the uniform. And someday soon
Posada & Varitec will retire but Fathertime wins all the battles eventually. At least
Pioli will have some classy veterans to begin the revival of KC.

Guess we had to make room for Gisele...

I am in shock. This is a horrible move. Unthinkable.

To the nay sayers. You demand a competitive team year after year and when the team makes a move to stay on top you are shocked???

Not sure of the wisdom behind this, but can you say Larry Wigham, Lawyer Milloy or Ty Law? Three players who were as PATRIOT as Mike Vrabel and those moves improved the team. In Bill we trust right guys? We need to get younger at LB. Have to make up for a lack of secondary talent. Only way to help the 3rd stringers playing the secondary is to get to the QB quicker. Remember when the Pats defense dominated every down? Smart football player is not good enough if you've lost a step. Look at Marshall Faulk. Smartest football player ever and his last two years on the Rams he couldn't get shit done. Have to keep the team moving in the right direction. No room for complacency.

Thank You for the Memories, Mike Vrabelyou wil always be a Patriot and a champion in my mind.

Rumor is that Cassel is going to be added with Vrabel for the third overall pick

Goobers!

If the Pats have a great season with a good Super Bowl run (or win) none of the 'robe tearers' will give a rat's backside about Vrabel. If the Pats have a less than stellar season I doubt if anyone will be saying "We would've won if we had Vrabel" and if his age catches up with him in KC and under a different defensive system and he breaks down or plays at a diminished level (both probable scenarios) the roar from the crowd will be "Thank God we got rid of him when we did!"

Also: Julius Peppers is a waste of money in a 34 defensive set. If you have half of a football mind...think it through. If you think it through and you still think Peppers is perfect fit you'll never get it.

Smoot likes Cassel and Vrabel for two seconds and a third.

fav player on the pats willl miss him alot..but its a possibility for julius peppers that wud be a huge replacment but i think well have a realy good team this year..we dont need gaffney either he dropped some key passes this season hes going to denver

lousy

Are you kidding me?!
Vrabel was solid, he epitomizes what the Patriots are all about

Watching the Patriots play now will be a little like watching golf on weekends without "Tiger."

I wonder if this means the Pats will take Conner Barwin in the draft? He put on a show at the combine and he is, as NFL.com puts it, a "Mike Vrabel clone".

I'm sad to hear that Mike Vrabel will be playing with another team, whatever the circumstances of the trade. He deserves recognition and thanks for his amazing contributions to the Patriots.

Thanks Mike and continued best Wishes!

Mike, thanks for the memories. you're a class act !! And in the same manner as Troy Brown, you're a HELLUVA FOOTBALL PLAYER!

Best scenario here is Cassel is added and we get the #3 pick, with which we draft Aaron Curry and fill Vrabel's vacated OLB spot.

I kant beeleave this. Leave it too the librul globe to deliver the news. Just like Kurt Shilling, another grate guy who will be missed. Hows about we get WEEI to host a going away partie for Mike Vraybill? With Fred & Steve, maybe D & C can come and sign autographs and show all the bleading hart Cambridge libruls how to salute a real Worrior!!!!! Luv you Mike Vraybill, you arethe best.

this is a sad day indeed. mikey - you were THE man on and off the field. we will miss you!! And i will always PROUDLY wear your number.

this is a sad day indeed. mikey - you were THE man on and off the field. we will miss you!! And i will always PROUDLY wear your number.

thank you mr. vrable.
we'll miss your intensity, field savvy and athletic ability.
i hope the return was worth the price.
one could make an argument that you make a positive contribution above and beyond on field activity.

Vrabel was a great player for the Patriots, but it was time to get something back for him as he enters his decline phase. This is the ONLY way to stay on top in the NFL, which isn't exactly breaking news. The Colts just released Marvin Harrison for God's sake, one of the greatest WR's in history, this is how things work in this day and age. The Patriots now free up cap room and allow themselves to get younger and tougher on defense, which is the only way they will be Super Bowl contenders again, at least defensively.

To Mike Vrabel: you were a great contributor and a class act, you will always be someone I think of when my thoughts turn to this era of Patriots dominance. Thanks for all the great memories!

Boy the sky is falling Yeah right Good luck Mike Thanks for everything . See you on the sidelines at THE OHIO STATE soon. His time was up here anyways. He did not do much the last couple of years here plus he was the players rep and was always such a sour puss.People under estimate last years draft when they drafted Rudd and Crable to replace him. The Pats have to get younger on defense and these older guys are going. Paxton is a bigger loss He was flawless while he was here. I hope Russ Hochstein can hold the fort down as long as he signs here. Paxton could have been more loyal but maybe the lure of the west coast was the draw.I wonder what Jr Josh paid him .If they could move Casell they could go after Peppers and resign Logan and Vincer. He is really holding things up.

They should have given them Brushi, and kept Vrabel!!!! !0x times the upside for Vrabel over Brushi

Adios to a solid and beloved Patriot. But we MUST get younger. In Pioli We Trust. Oh wait...Pioli is with the team we sent Vrabel to! UH-OH.

great so we get o'connell or warner because brady is done this is an awful day for me as a pats fan. since '74 resign wilfork get larenitis and to think we could have had hall from the skins but i guess trading 50 was to important btw 54 and 37 are still retiring. and we've lost jab and lonnie to denver and sanders will be next. we should've shed mulrony at week 6 he is truely not needed yet he still has a roster spot the trade should've been matt mulroney for the number 3 pick and larry johnson why do we need 5 te's when we don't have a cb over 6'1' gotta be real i hate this deal.

Dick Albert retired? When did this happen..... Oh sorry this is about Vrabel. it is a good move for both teams KC gets a club house leader and the pats free up cap and get another draft pick. Vrabel was great and will be missed but, in the end the Pats need to get younger and have money to sign key players in the next few years. This will help.

All of your guys are freaking silly...Vrabel was great and yes he contributed to our success over the past decade, but he is on the downside of his career and our defense needs an infusion of youth. Whether the pats get at least a 3rd rounder (I hope so) this year or something next year we'll be fine. I love this team, but our defense is freaking old and tired.Need I remind you of our recent 4th qtr collapses? The giants in the Super Bowl. How about the colts the year before? Remember that? Yeah, we were up 21-3 at the half and got rolled by the colts in the second half. Trust guys, trust.

This deal makes little sense(though Vrabel is not the player he nwas 2-3 years ago).I would be stunned if this is not the first of a significant deal

One of my favorite OFFENSIVE players.
A guy who gave his all.
Will we see him in the booth some day?

As a fan of Mike Vrabel since his Ohio State days, its sad to see him go but it's the right move. As someone mentioned earlier, he's more valuable to KC where Pioli is looking to rebuild and establish "The Patriot Way" in that organization. He's getting older and probably is past his prime but that doesn't mean Vrabel can't help a young defense and instill a certain attitude and team-first mentality in the locker room.

Much like the Ray Allen trade the Celtics made over a year ago, this deal almost certainly means there's another shoe about to drop:

1) This is part of a bigger deal with KC involving Cassel
Maybe the Patriots are using Vrabel to "sweeten" a Cassel trade with KC. The Chiefs may not have been willing to trade the #3 overall pick for Cassel straight up but now that it's essentially Cassel and Vrabel, they're more willing to part with that pick. This could open the door for Belichick to select Wake Forest OLB Aaron Curry (not likely given Belichick's track record) or trade that pick on draft day to a team looking to move up and select Georgia QB Matthew Stafford.

2) Jonathan Vilma signing
Belichick was supposedly in love with Vilma back in the 2004 draft, and while he struggled as an ILB in the 3-4 maybe Belichick thinks he can play on the outside. (Edit: Nevermind, Vilma re-signed with NO)

3) JULIUS PEPPERS trade
Adam Schefter confirmed this morning on WEEI that the Patriots are the lone AFC team on Peppers' list of teams he would like to be traded to (Schefter also shot down the Peppers-for-Cassel rumor but that was before the Vrabel story broke). An acquisition like Peppers doesn't fit the mold of typical Belichick moves but the same thing was said a couple of years ago when Adalius Thomas was the premier free agent on the market.

The bottom line is that the Patriots are a team that needed to ADD LBs to the roster not SUBTRACT so something has to be in the works. Come on Reiss get on it...

He's on the back nine. Cap number too high for his on-field contributions. You hate to lose a leader, but you trade while you can get return or you continue slipping back to mediocrity.

Good luck, Michael! I wish you and the Chefs the best of luck except against the Patriots.

BB knows what he is doing, he has done this before with other star players. everybody knows we are too slow and old at LB,had to make this move even though he was my favorite pat.just hope gisele does not make tom to soft.

BREAKING NEWS : Tampa Bay TV Station FOX 13 is reporting BUCS are finalizing contract extention talks with MATT CASSEL . BUCS and PATS have agreed on DEAL pending CASSEL CONTRACT SIGNING ( 4 years -29.5 million plus performance incentives ) .
Buc 's official confirms deal is for Buc's 2009 1st round selection ( 19th overall ) and 2010 conditional 2nd rounder.

I spotted Vrabel at the Dunkin Donuts recently. He is a really big guy ,but he looked about 40 years old or so.

Can't thank Mike enough for his great efforts and accomplishments as a Patriot. Hes' a class act.

I love Vrabel as much as the next fan. But, by the time camp rolls around I'm not wringing my hands too much whether we can win another championship or not. How can you be against this deal when we don't even know what the deal is??????

This is worse than losing Vinatieri. You don't get rid of Mike Vrabel. It's the intangibles.

I hated to see Willie McGinest leave.....This hurts even more. Thanks Mike!!!

REPLY TO THIS Comment:
REAKING NEWS : Tampa Bay TV Station FOX 13 is reporting BUCS are finalizing contract extention talks with MATT CASSEL

FOX 13 has nothing about this on their website. Pretty sure this is fake.

3rd pick to pats....pats send 3rd pick to phoenix for Boldin

Crushed.

Mike Vrabel was a great Patriot. But, Pats must look foward.

What a sad day for Patriot fans....Im sorry whether hes getting old or not...you just dont trade away that leadership and one of the stalwarts who played a major role in bringing three Championships to your team!! Whos next...Brady??
Best of luck to you Mike!! You will be missed greatly!!

u watch...brady is next...bye bye fag boy. he's a closet homo hookin up with the hoties to keep up appearances....

i hope we get peppers.

The wheels keep coming off the Patriots express. Sad to say, but back to mediocrity.

wow i am so pissed. yeah he's getting old, but he's been a team captain for a while now. in my eyes he is worth 10 first round picks. sigh. what will i do with my prized vrabel jersey. hopefully he can some how retire so he can say he never played for such a crappy team. u will be missed mike and we all love you

My initial reaction is to be stunned. I really love this guy for his versatility and what he has meant to the defense over the years. I do trust in Belichick to make the right moves, but I'll really miss Vrabel and wish he could stay.

News Alert - Dick Albert just signed by the Pats to become the offical weather man on game day.....

I am speechless ... what a class act. I can only hope that it is amicable. Vrabel (in typical Buckeye fashion) has given his heart and soul to the Patriots organization. I understand the need to look to the future ... but how about some veteran leadership (like Junior Seau - the golden egg!).

You will be missed, Mike ... thanks for the blood, sweat and tears! We wish you and yours all the BEST (except another ring, cuz those are reserved for the guys in Foxboro!).

GET VRABEL BACK OR GET RID OF BELLICHICK AND KRAFT those 2 have to be smoking something funny to get rid of one of there BEST players I cannot believe how Stupid Robert Kraft and Bill Bellichick are THEY NEEDS TO FIND ANOTHER CAREER GET MIKE VRABEL BACK WE WANT OUR NO#50 ONLY WORN BY MIKE VRABEL GET HIM BACK NOW seems like these coaches are slowly ruining the Patriots team These coaches and This owner is a DISGRACE to the Boston name maybe they have been spending to much time at the bars but they need to get MIKE VRABEL BACK very MAD FAN POSSIBLE EX FAN CAUSE OF THIS STUPID MOVE

Julius Peppers - Welcome to New England

Paula you sound like a crazy stalker. And you have no clue. To the more intelligent, there has to be more to this story. Otherwise I think they would have disclosed the pick.

Thank god some of the posters on here aren't running the Patriots, otherwise in a few years we'd have a roster full of past-their-prime veterans and living in salary cap hell.

Vrabel was an integral part of the Patriots for the past 8 years but a big part of the reason why the Patriots have been the premier organization in the NFL for close to a decade is because Belichick and Co. make personnel decisions without letting sentiment or nostalgia getting in the way.

Nobody appreciates what Vrabel has done for the Patriots more than me but its time for this team to get younger on defense, more specifically at LB. Vrabel still has something left in the tank, which is why you trade him now. The Patriots, under Belichick and Pioli, have been very proactive in terms of letting players go and this transaction is no different. I wish Vrabel nothing but the best and hope to see him back in New England in some role either as a coach or as an analyst/media personality, but until then it's time to move on...

Patriots are irrelevant. Just a bunch of cheating chokers! Their time is happily past.

One of the best. He will be missed....and for all you negitve people out there, do I need to remind you of Milloy and how that all turned out....... Trust the guys that make 6 plus million a year. I have a strange feeling he knows what he is doing....

great team player, great memories.goodluck my man

hopefully a cassel to carolina trade is in the works. otherwise, maybe a vrabel and cassel for the 3rd overall pick? weei speculated this was the case but i have my doubts

What? Mike is a great leader and player! Thanks to him for his past performance and best of luck in KC! Also, thanks for making me a new KC fan! ;-)

he's 34 and was going to be a free agent next year anyway.
probably get a 4th round pick tops.. 5th is more reasonable for a LB that age.
better than getting nothing out of him next year when he's not worth resigning.

Someone said "Vrabel was great." Exactly, "was" is the key word. Why not get something for him now, as opposed to getting nothing if he were to retire next year. I love Vrabel, but football is a business. BB and the Patriots continue to show us fans why we would fail as GMs, personnel directors, coaches, etc. We think with our emotions. With that said, God Bless Mike Vrabel and his family!

NewEngland fans are smart enough to know the trade isn't as simple as to aquire a third round pick. We all wish MIke the very best as well as his family. Thank you for everything you've given us. Your heart and sole, and ours goes out to you. The memories will be treasured.

Anyone who thinks this is a bad move doesn't understand football and the salary cap. Mike Vrabel had many good years here, but he has CLEARLY lost a step. He had 3 sacks last year...He's 34 years old and the team desperately needs to get younger on defense. The golden rule is you always get a rid of a guy a year too early rather than a year too late. If they got a high 3rd rounder for Vrabel it was a steal. Julius Peppers is NOT coming to New England, he's a career underachiever. If the Pats trade Cassel it will be for draft picks and the $14 million in cap savings goes to Wilfork and others next season.

Hope we didnt give up anything more than a fourth round pick. He'll be a good coach to Aaron Curry.....Go Chiefs!!

Damn! I dont want anymore has been players!!! Thats funny Steve said New England fans and smart in the same sentence. And why give him your heart and the bottom of your shoes?

Ouch! Tough beginning to the weekend hearing this news! What was not to like about #50?? Damn, say it isn't so, please...

I was thoroughly shocked, and sad to see Vrabel go. He is one of my all time favorite players for his game and attitude, on and off the field. We will miss you Vrabel NE won't be the same without the "backerhood"

As a KC Chiefs fan living in KC I just wanted to say thank you to the fans of the New England Patriots for the early Christmas present. I hope you will like what you get in return as much as we do New England's gift to Kansas City.

Best TE ever, every catch a TD, you can't get better than that. Not to mention a great LB and a great guy. Good Luck.

Mike Vrabel is a class guy, a rare player who can play multiple defensive positions, run goal line offense with scary touchdown efficiency, and understand and run the defense, including adjustments, like a coach from the field.

It always hurts to lose a quality player who contributed so much and was so versatile. I have no doubt he will succeed with KC and will have something to prove. But, the facts are inescapable: he's almost 34, his production was down last year, and he's been dinged a bit physically. His best years have been with the Pats, but BB has a knack for knowing when to move popular/productive players out when we would all think otherwise. I see nothing higher than a 5th round pick straight-up--we can get a young stud and save some cap space. Good move...

what is wrong with people? One women "Paula" said she may be an ex-pats fan because of the trade and that the pats dont know what they're doing and ruining the team. Wake up sweet heart how the hell do you think we won the SB we won? We won them by making the same type of moves!!!

I can't wait until the Pats win the SB this year and shut up people that say they are washed up. This is why they make moves like this is so they are not washed up. They get young and at the same time they still have some veteran presence that allows them to stay competative. PLEASE PEOPLE IT'S TIME TO WAKE UP!!!! Don't get me wrong I love mike Vrabel but it is time to part ways. Like some one else said it can't stay 2007 for ever. I wish him all the luck in the world.

GOOOOOOOOOOOO PATS !!!!!!!!!

Mr. Vrabel,
Just in case you might actually read this....THANK YOU for your attitude and skill! You have been an incredible role model for younger football players....actually for people working in any job! Your dedication will be missed....so will the touchdowns!!!!!!!!!!!!

We wish you the BEST of luck and hope that you succeed MIGHTILY in KC!!!!!

You were an inspiration for the common fan!

THANKS form

Somehow I see this being the first part of the Cassel for the Chiefs 1st round draft pick...anybody else on board?

What??? I can't wait to see what we get in return. It better be a lot more than a conditional draft pick. Is this a harbinger of things to come with the new front office? I hope not becaue this trade STINKS!
PIOLI 1 ~ Patriots 0

you people on here are absolute morons. there is no way mike vrabel is worth more than a fourth rounder, beyond that anyone with half a brain can see that something much larger is in the works here. there is a big hole in the linebacking corp now and i'm sure the pats have a plan to fill it with a marquee talent whether it be julius peppers or aaron curry possibly with the 3d pick. quite being so short sighted and overreacting. something great will come of this trade.

Mike, this stinks. We were looking forward to our Training Camp "fun". We'll miss you more than you know. Best of luck. We love you. Your Training Camp "Fan Club"

What a bunch of Pat's babies. Scott built your team, not the cheater Belichick. Your on the down hill. Mike will appreciate his 4th ring with the Chiefs. Maybe handing out crying towels on your opener will help you. We will also take Cassel from you. By the way, you have NO shot @ Peppers. Sleep well want- abees.
John

What a bunch of Pat's babies. Scott built your team, not the cheater Belichick. Your on the down hill. Mike will appreciate his 4th ring with the Chiefs. Maybe handing out crying towels on your opener will help you. We will also take Cassel from you. By the way, you have NO shot @ Peppers. Sleep well want- abees.
John

What a bunch of Pat's babies. Scott built your team, not the cheater Belichick. Your on the down hill. Mike will appreciate his 4th ring with the Chiefs. Maybe handing out crying towels on your opener will help you. We will also take Cassel from you. By the way, you have NO shot @ Peppers. Sleep well want- abees.
John

As a Chiefs fan, I'd like to say normally, I wouldn't be too thrilled about this trade myself, but I understand it and do think its a win - win for both sides. Lets face it, after Vrabels good but not great season last year I'd bet 29 of the 31 other GMs in the league wouldn't have offered anything for him. Furthermore, if he is on the downside of his carreer, it was likely the Pat's front office wouldn't have given him a new contract when this one ran out. That means that the Pats get a draft pick that might play a couple years for them or might play 10 years for them instead of a player that will only play a year more for them. They also get some needed cap space. Now as to why its a win for KC. The only thing resembling a leader on the KC defence this year was Pat Surtain who wasn't on the field much and Donnie Edwards who also missed half the season. Both are gone now. It seems as if we have no idea if KC is going to run its 4-3 D or switch to 3-4. This is the message telling us its 3-4 which we haven't ran in two decades and don't have the personnel for. We now have an on the field leader who is familiar with the 3-4. KC doesn't think we're getting the next Derrick Thomas but we are getting the best on field leader we will have had since him. It's the reason he was worth a draft pick and all the future production that pick could produce for us. Thank you to Bill, the Patriots, and their fans for providing Vrabel the opportunity to be what he is today.

The end deal will be:
Vrabel and Cassel to KC
1st and 3rd Rounders to NE

As much as I will miss #50
THAT is is great deal for everyone!

Let's let a bunch of kids run the team now.

Actually, in thinking it through, it might make the most sense if the Pat's trade Cassel & Vrabel for the Chief's 2nd this year and their 1st next. That frees up enough to sign Peppers and adds a 3rd second round pick this year.

Another ultimate Patriot and one of my favorite players. You'll be missed Mike

Clearly, Col. Walt Belichick has lost his mind... and has gone insane...

Walt Belichick was one of our finest GMs... but, now, his methods....

look the patriots are making a statement that is out with old and in with the new. mayo should br the new captain

i as a BIG pats fan am very upset about this deal to HONESTLY trade the best pats defensive player we have(yes i know what Mayo did) but Mike Verabel is the one guy the Pats could always count on him to do any thing that the Pats needed him to do to for the best interest of the team! honestly if they dont get a second round pick or better for him it was a wasted trade! Mike Verabel you are the man and i wish they didnt trade you!!!!!!!!!!! truly a big fan of yours browne #44

Another strike at the core of the Pats.That leaves just Brady, Bruschi, Seymour, Faulk, Light and I think Izzo from 2001. For everyone compring the move to letting Willie McGinest go, they haven't won the Super Bowl since he left. I love what Adalius Thomas has done, but would Willie have let Eli out of his grasp?

You guys r dumb Vrabel was a great player but he lost it last year we need to get younger at LB we're not running a retirement home ... oh and by the way Paula you're stupid BB is a genius and the pats are still the team to beat so shut up about it im as upset about it as the next guy but weve got to move on and i agree with the people who said we're probably goin to pick up a good free agent Its become what the pats do peace out

DO PATS SB 44 Champs

As an avid Pat's fan, Vrabe's was an important piece to our defense all those years and I loved his performance on the field!! I hate to see him go. He'll do great under Pioli and be a true leader. But you also know that we're talking about Mr. Belichik, arguably the master-mind of coaches (regardless of spygate BS!) that will certainly have some skiled method to his madness. He knows a heck of a lot more than we do!! Thanks Vrabe's!! Wish you all the best!!

It's a business, and I don't know anyone who thinks that this is not part of a bigger plan. Vrabel's best years are behind him, as are Bruschi's. And the Pats have plenty of veteran leadership in the LB corps. As for the fact of which round pick - let us never forget that TB was a #6 and MC a #7 - I know it's become a cliche but cliches become cliches because they are true. Personally I wouldn't be surprised to see Tony Gonzales wind up here. I know the Pats have already signed a tight end but the rich get richer because they're smarter. With all the people we've lost we still have Belichik and although it is kind of sad to lose Vrabes, it is a business. R. Jasper, #271 - good post. Good points

R. Jasper, #271 - good post.

People need to get a grip. Vrabel unfortunately is on the down side of his career in a position where speed matters. No doubt he was a great player for the Patriots, but his value to the team did not match up with his salary for this coming season. I took me a long time to accept "In Bill we trust" and until he proves me wrong I believe this move will help the team in the long run. I feel even stronger about this position given it is Coach making a decision about a defensive player and in the LB spot. I would like to thank Mike Vrabel in part for making my Sundays more fun to watch TV and wish him the best of luck in the future during the remainder of his football career and beyond.

Somebody said, "I hope Bill knows what he's doing..."
Like three super bowl rings and four AFC titles havn't convinced you yet?

Convinced ? Yes! Convinced of the following:
One word summary of "BB" = CHEATER!!!

I think its setting Vrabel up for a future coaching job there in a year or 2 myself. Pioli really likes him.

Its about time...Good move for the Pats ... Vrabel is done, whatever they get in return is a bonus

Of course he isn't enthusiastic, he's going from the Patriots who'll be Superbowl Contenders for years to come to the KC Chiefs who won't hold the VL trophy in the next two decades. Plus he was part of The 'backerhood and was practically family with Bruschi. Vrabes will be truly missed and f**k off to those who say he's "washed up", he's gonna do big things for that pile of walrus sh*t Kansas City calls an NFL team. Oh well, at least we can get an AUTHENTIC NFL Jersey for only $75 instead of $4000 or w/e they cost.

Obviously the Pats need to get younger on defense. As much as every fan respects Mike Vrabel, what they get in return will determine if this is a good move or bad move. Except for drafting Mayo the Pats have not made any good personell moves on the defense in the last few years. They knew that Samuel was leaving for over a year and did not have any plan on how to replace him. This makes me wonder if there actually is a plan in place. How to they plan to replace Harrison, Seymour, and Bruschi?

The best team in Football knows what it is doing ...wait and see.

I really hope this trade is the beggining of a BIG free agent signing, cause u dont just trade away a player as like Vrabel for nothing. KC's roster has no one the patriots can use (yes even Tony Gonzalez) and i very much dought there going to give up there 3rd overall pick for Vrabel.......But like i always say in Kraft i trust!! There will be something BIG coming outta this!

Pats lost an Amazing player and person. Thanks for all the memories and 3 superbowls Mike!! best of luck!

So sad to see him go, at least I got to see a game live before he left. I'm from Denmark but I'm a Patriot by heart. Really hope that Bill has a cunning plan.

Are you guys forgetting last years Draft pick in Shawn Crable,Lets not forget what Vrabel did for us but lets Embrace his replacement and look forward to change,Along with fred taylor our oft injured Maroney needs a boost and how long can we rely on Jordan and Morris,Morris one thing Jordan is hampered by injury often as well,So again thanks Vrabel Welcome Crable and maybe even a ray lewis in our sights???Would be great!!

I'm a Chiefs fan living in Boston, and I'm about as confused as the Patriot fans. The Patriots know what they're doing, as this is the same story of upgrading through trading on the reputation of aging players. If I were a Pats fan, I would lament losing a great player but be excited over the prospect of what the team gets in return. But as to the Chiefs' decision, Vrabel's age does not jibe with the rest of the KC youth movement. He was/is a great player, no doubt. If KC gave anything more than a 4th rounder then the Chiefs must be looking for a coach as much as a player. Does this mean they won't pick up Curry (LB Wake Forest) if he's still available at pick 3? I would have rather seen a trade for Cassel than this, this points to drafting dirty Sanchez from USC. Great. I hope I'm wrong, and I hope Vrabel has two or three more productive seasons.

Thanks for a great 8 years Mike, wish you all the best and hope you tear it up in KC. This is a good move for the Pats in an effort to get faster/younger and create more room in the salary cap. MV is a great team guy and will be missed but the team is trying to get something for him while they can while also addressing the age issue w linebackers

i wont lie, vrabel was one of my favorites, but i have learned to just sit back and trust belicheck man. he has proven time and time again that he knows what hes doing.

J-E-T-S JETS JETS JETS!

Well who needs him.... Brady is the backbone anyway.... So long sell out....

hahahaha suckers traded on of the most versitile players in nfl history

Here we go steelers here we go !!!!!!!!

BYE BYE The Pats married up with the left media system and now you can watch karma begin.

Hate to break it to you but I highly doubt we are trading for Cassel.

Vrabel makes sense but the jury is out until we find out what we traded for him. There's a good chance we can pick up Curry with the 3rd overall pick and having that veteran leader on the linebacking corps will help immensely in his and Derrick Johnson's careers.

The fact of the matter is, KC will still need to address their defensive line in free agency this year. I see us possibly grabbing a DE (though, I don't know who) and maybe a true NT (I think maybe Tank could play it) and move Dorsey outside to DE. We should be solid in the secondary and should be fine with linebackers after the trade and our first pick. Offensive line needs a boost at RT and I see us possibly picking up a guard in the draft. WR (despite what everyone says) is fine. We have Bowe and Bradley (1st and 2nd round picks). We have an up and coming QB in Thigpen. Our RB core will be fine if we can retain Johnson and keep him happy and our FB is really underrated.

Drey from nj, shouldn't you be rooting for a local team, idiot. Don't trash talk kc your nervous cause Pioli is one of us now and you should be honored that he is taking from the best. Show some class not your a$$! careful we will sick pollard on you again.

Mike Vrabel is a GOD!!!! I modeled everything I knew about football and sportsmanship by watching this seremingly average guy do extraordinary things on the field. He was an incredible LB and never steered me wrong when I emulated his stance or attitude...PS i learned a few things for TE too (GREAT HANDS!!!!) good work mike thanks for the lessons....truly an inspiration