I don't see the Patriots trading out, especially if they have a top 5 pick in the NFL draft. Why? Two reasons: 1. The trend of teams trading everything but the kitchen sink and then tying boatloads of money into an unproven player seem to be over. The second reason is because it's harder for teams that want to move up to provide equal value for a higher pick they desire. In 2004, word was that the 9ers didn't want the #1 overall pick because nobody warrented a first pick overall. They were on the phones trying to trade that #1 pick but their were no suitors. The 9ers ended up taking Alex Smith. With that said, I see three scenerio's happening:
1. Dallas falls in love with McFadden or someone else and trades their two first round picks, along with an additional pick or player.
2. New England trades down two or three times in the first round alone, gaining a couple second round or third round picks in the process.
3. They keep the pick and take the best available player, I don't care what they need . I know everyone thinks they should take LB but if a DL, OL or even RB grades out better than a LB, don't be suprised if they pass on LB again.
My guess is that the Pats will get stuck with the #2-#4 and won't be able to trade the pick and have to take a chance on highly touted prospect. This year couldn't get any better. A chance to win the superbowl and then pick first in the NFL draft! I'm sure SF will do their part and lose out, so it's up to the Dolphins if they want to keep that top spot.