In case you were thinking the New England Patriots couldn't get any better

[WilliamPitt]

http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/news/story?id=1785718

The New England Patriots have acquired halfback Corey Dillon from the Cincinnati Bengals for a second-round pick, the 56th overall in the 2004 draft.

With four picks in the first two rounds, seven in the first four, the Patriots were considered to be big players in this draft. They had the flexibility to move up and down to acquire draftable players who interest them.

But one of their main needs was running back. Sitting with the 21st pick in the first round, the Patriots were probably not going to get a chance to take the first running back, believed to be Steven Jackson of Oregon State. The Broncos moved to the 17th pick in the first round, giving teams around the league the idea they were taking Jackson.

The Raiders and Bengals had conversations about a trade weeks ago, but could not agree on a deal. The Bengals wanted a second-round pick. The Raiders were willing to give up a third-rounder and were going to be patient in trying to get the price.

Evaluating the first round, the Patriots apparently determined not to wait for Virginia Tech halfback Kevin Jones with the 21st pick. Dillon was acquired to replaced Antowain Smith, whose contract was voided at the start of free agency.

In acquiring Dillon, the Patriots pick up a 29-year-old running back who has rushed for 8,061 yards in seven seasons. Injuries limited Dillon to 541 yards last season. Rudi Johnson ended up being the team's leading rusher.

...more...

[On the Road]

1. All Cincinnati Could Get was a Low Second-Rounder?

I know Dillon is 29, but he's an incredible back. I hope Cincinnati hits the jackpot on this draft pick is all I can say.

[Commendatori]

10. That's exactly what I was thinking, but

I don't wish Cincinnati the same amount of luck that you do. If they're willing to let Dillon go for a song, they deserve whatgever bum comes with pick #56. JMHO - I don't care for either team, to be honest.

[Catholic Sensation]

2. OH THANK GOD

NOW THE COWBOYS CAN GET STEPHEN JACKSON

HAHAHAHA

Patriots suck :P

[JohnKleeb]

6. you hate everything Boston dontcha

I read in a magazine today that the cowboys would pick Kevin Jones, a running back out of Va Tech, of course lol it was SI for kids, lol how bored could I get, I was in a orpho office.

[Catholic Sensation]

8. because jackson was going to be take by new england

now new england will take someone else, like randy starks or one of the ten wideouts who'll be drafted this year in the first round

[sir_captain]

3. Personalities I don't want on my team:

Corey Dillon

How long before he starts complaining that Tom Brady hogs the ball?

[sasquatch]

17. He's a good back but he always wanted out of Cincy

For the most part I can't blame him, but not after Marvin Lewis turned it around.

[jobycom]

4. Good combination for the Pats

He'll take pressure off Brady, and Brady will open lanes for him. Hard to beat.

Which will make the Cowboy's Super Bowl victory over them even more sweet!!

(In other news, jobycom becomes trapped in a fantasy world of his own making...)

[VelmaD]

5. Jeezus h christ...

on a popsicle stick. How did y'all end up with so many picks in the early rounds?

[Catholic Sensation]

7. they traded their first round pick last year to the ravens

for one this year, they got an extra one last year because of a trade the previous year I believe, their gm is smart as hell

[LynneSin]

9. maybe your Patriots are a little bit better but...

EAGLES WILL WIN THE SUPERBOWL THIS YEAR!!!!

[Catholic Sensation]

11. hahaha yeah and the red sox will win the world series

philadelphia teams should be forbidden from even enterring the playoffs, since it's been about 20+ years since one has won a major championship.

[Kat45]

13. Lynne, I think I recall some type of bet on that, n'est-ce pas?

[Champ]

12. I hope the Broncos pick up Stephen Jackson or K. Jones

Then the Lombardi Trophy goes through the Mile High City this year.

[DEM FAN]

14. Well I Will Say This. The Pats Know How To Get Things Done.

They Get It.

[Paragon]

15. LOL

I live in Cincinnati, Will -- you enjoy Corey Dillon.

While you can.

[sasquatch]

16. So how do you like the capitol of Midwestern Fascism?

Lived between it and Dayton all of my life. I consider her one of my home city's but she still has her problems.