Vrabel has value despite his age and I do not see him getting cut if he stays. I agree with the theory Cassel, with the franchise tag, was more than KC was willing to assume for the pick NE wanted and the Chiefs are a very young team in need of a defensive veteran who can command on the field.
I honestly do not see what all those in favor of cutting Vrabel see. The drop off from 2007, other than raw statistics, was not as evident as all these experts seem to think it was. When opposing teams are always having to play from behind, more sacks are inevitable. 2008 presented a very different picture for the defense.
KC read NE's position and offered a palatable alternative to NE eating a QB franchise figure. Vrabel was the casualty. If Vrabel was of no value, he would not have been traded as Pioli knows his capabilities at this point and would not have added him to the roster. I would rate the LB value on NE prior to this trade as Mayo, Thomas, Vrabel, in that order. Who is a better OLB currently on the roster comprising the top 4 LBs on the team other than Mayo (if moved outside) and Thomas?