NFL: The best trade in each franchise’s history

Best trade in Arizona Cardinals history: Aquiring Chandler Jones

Bill Belichick is almost never questioned. Six Super Bowl rings tend to do that. With that said, he provided the Arizona Cardinals with the greatest trade in franchise history.

During the lead-up to the 2016 draft, Belichick decided against paying Jones and instead, shipped him off for offensive linemen Jonathon Cooper and a second-rounder. When looking back on that trade, it’s been a disaster for the Patriots.

Cooper never played a game for New England as injuries began piling up. Their second-round selection was ultimately traded for a third and fourth-round pick to the New Orleans Saints.

Although the trade provided New England with nothing, in the mind of the Cardinals, things couldn’t have worked out any better. Jones has been a monster for his new squad. In his first year, he sacked the QB 11 times and registered 49 total tackles. His numbers would only increase as he put together seasons of 17, 13 and 19 sacks. His efforts have been rewarded with two Pro Bowl appearances with his new squad and two First-Team All-Pro selections.

This past year wasn’t kind to Jones as he suffered a torn bicep and managed to play in only five games. Still, as long as he returns healthy, he should continue to be a force as a defensive end.