The Patriots ran the phones like sharks, prying loose value on deal after deal until the ledger was lopsided. It holds up to a second look, which is why it earns the A-.

That is a tight end worth more than the slot they spent on him, plainly. The edge rusher spot stays a question, and it was the one they most needed an answer at. Adding Jeff Okudah by trade rounds out the weekend beyond the rookies.

Reaching for Zabel left real value on the table behind him.

Bottom line, with Grey Zabel leading the way, this is a class that should pay off fast and rarely be regretted.