The move everyone will second-guess came early. The Patriots reached some 156 spots for Traeshon Holden, and value like that does not grow back. They moved the roster forward and banked a B- for it.

Getting Lawson where they did is the sort of value that quietly makes a class. For all the activity, edge rusher went untouched, which is hard to explain. The dealing nudged the ledger their way without much fuss.

Job largely done: wide receiver settled and 5 of 8 of the wish list covered.

In short, they left a little better than they arrived, which is the whole idea.