In one day, the New England Patriots traded for two of the most talented malcontents in pro football. There isn't another team in the NFL that could – or would – pull off such a daring feat just days before training camps open. But the Patriots are not the best organization in football because they make moves like this. They can make moves like this because they are the best organization. And everyone knows it. Lots of teams make outrageous headline splashing roster moves, but none do it with the same level of savvy and planning that New England does. They understand their own strengths and weakness so well, and are such expert practitioners of the philosophy of "buy low, sell high," that what seems like a gamble for most clubs is just business as usual in Patriot Country.
1) The moves aren't that daring. They gave up a future 5th round draft pick for Haynesworth, a guy that the Redskins paid $100 million to sign just two years ago. They gave up two late rounders (in 2012 and '13) for Ochocinco. If these deals don't work out, it will have cost the Patriots very little of their own capital. 2) They are daring enough to pull the plug if it fails. Where most businesses get into trouble is by making a bad decision and then doubling down on it, because they're afraid to admit when they were wrong. Randy Moss was one of the most successful wide receivers in the history of the franchise. At the first sign of trouble (Week 4 last season, when he had no catches), they traded him for pennies on the dollar and never looked back. If Chad or Albert gives them the slightest headache, they'll be out the door before they can pack their bags. 3) The upside is gigantic.
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