BROWNS MOVE MINGO TO NEW ENGLAND
The New England Patriots acquired defensive end/outside linebacker Barkevious Mingo from the Cleveland Browns for a fifth-round draft pick in 2017.
What does it give the New England Patriots
Mingo is still a young, top-tier talent so this might prove to be a steal for the Patriots. New England lost two key young defensive linemen this off-season (Chandler Jones and Dominique Easley) so Mingo brings a needed replenishment of youth and talent on the pass rush. He remains unproven after three NFL seasons, but the tools are there for stardom. His versatility is a great fit for what the Patriots try to do up front.
What does it give the Cleveland Browns
It has to be tough for the Browns to give up on a former first-round draft pick here, especially one once expected to be a franchise cornerstone-type player. That said, Mingo hasn't yet panned out as expected and Mingo didn't look likely to challenge for a starting spot this season. Then again, down the road the Browns might regret this one (especially considering New England's strong track record in player development).
Fantasy impact
For fantasy leagues featuring individual defensive players, Mingo goes from a relative afterthought to an intriguing potential sleeper. Keep an eye on him and his role in New England early in the coming campaign.
Player focus
Cleveland Browns
a fifth-round draft pick in 2017