PATS ADD LINEBACKER DEPTH FROM DETROIT IN VAN NOY
The New England Patriots acquired linebacker Kyle Van Noy and a 7th-round draft pick in 2017 from the Detroit Lions for a 6th-round draft pick in 2017.
What does it give the New England Patriots
Van Noy has the versatility the Patriots generally covet in their defensive players, having shown the ability to move around the linebacker corps depending on team need. He was highly prolific in college and was a regular starter for the Lions this season, so this is a quality, low-cost pickup for a team needing the depth (especially after the season-ending injury to Jonathan Freeney).
What does it give the Detroit Lions
This is a bit of a head-scratcher for the Lions. Van Noy was a solid performer for Detroit this season, stepping up as a starter. Getting a one-round upgrade in the pick department is very little return indeed for a quality player, but the team seems content to go with recently-re-signed former starter Josh Bynes to replace Van Noy.
Fantasy impact
Since Van Noy isn't likely to play as much with New England as he did with Detroit, this move decidedly takes him off the fantasy radar in leagues featuring Individual Defensive Players. That said, Bynes might be worth monitoring the rest of the way since he's now back with the Lions (but don't expect much).
Player focus
Detroit Lions
a sixth-round draft pick in 2017