[Bette]

In a move that surprised Patriot nation, the Pats traded Richard Seymour to the Oakland Raiders for a first round pick in 2011, the year after the uncapped year.
Why Seymour?
This opens a lot of salary cap space for the Pats. ( Seymour is getting a lot of money this year.) In addition, the Pats have changed their defensive scheme from a 3-4 to a 4-3 where Seymour's talents are not as valuable. Seymour is not as explosive as he once was and is injury prone.
Pats dont usually pick early in the first round because of the high salaries demanded by unproven rookies. But if rookie salaries are limited in 2011, the Pats will have two picks in the first round. (Raiders not going anywhere in this league)
Belichick shows his genius once again.

[Rudeman]

BB's track record is pretty good and while Seymour will be missed this trade frees up cap room for other signings and has the potential of maintaining the team's goal of trying to field a successful team every year.