Sat, Feb 28, 2009 at 3:00pm

CHIEFS GET CASSEL, VRABEL

The Kansas City Chiefs acquired quarterback Matt Cassel and linebacker Mike Vrabel from the New England Patriots for a second-round draft pick in 2009.

What does it give the Kansas City Chiefs
Formerly in the New England front office, new Kansas City GM Scott Pioli reached back into his old talent pool and pulled out a great deal here, landing a starting quarterback and a much-needed veteran defensive presence without having to sacrifice their third overall pick in April's draft. Matt Cassel won't make the Chiefs contenders overnight, but is a major step forward after a few years of uncertainly under center. He'll be the clear-cut starter in 2009 and, assuming they can get a contract extension done, beyond. Vrabel is also a nice pickup, and immediately becomes one of KC's best defensive players. He'll be a mentor in the locker room, and his underrated pass rushing skills will come in handy on a team that was historically inept at sacking opposition QBs last season.

What does it give the New England Patriots
While it's possible that the Patriots could have eventually acquired a first-round pick for Cassel closer to Draft day, doing this trade now vastly increases their salary cap room just as the free agency period is beginning. Evidently they have enough faith in Tom Brady's recovery to have sold their insurance policy, also a good sign for New England fans. Fan-favorite Vrabel has been a fixture throughout the Bill Belichick era, but at 33 his best days are clearly behind him and moving his contract gives them even greater flexibility.

Fantasy impact