NFL Free Agency is one of the craziest times of the year as many transactions are made, especially trades. Another trade has been made by the New England Patriots, this time making a deal with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers involving offensive lineman Shaq Mason.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers Acquire: OL Shaq Mason
New England Patriots Acquire: A 2022 5th Round Pick
Tampa Bay Buccaneers Side
With Tom Brady shockingly returning to the NFL after two months of retiring from the NFL, the Buccaneers have another shot to get another Lombardi Trophy in Tampa Bay. But, in order for Tom Brady to do his magic, the Buccaneers need to beef up the offensive line. The team lost Alex Cappa, who signed a 4 year contract with the Cincinnati Bengals, and Ali Marpet, who shockingly announced his retirement at the age of 28. Guard is a big need for the Buccaneers now and they needed to find a replacement for both. Shaq Mason is an excellent choice for them as he is one of the best guards in the NFL today. The Buccaneers did not have to sacrifice much in order to get him, which is a benefit for a team that needs to win now.
New England Patriots Side
I have to say out of all the teams that are making moves during Free Agency, the Patriots have not been making noise signing players but trading players away. Earlier they traded LB Chase Winovich and now the Patriots have decided to trade Shaq Mason away. Despite acquiring a late round pick and saving around $7 million in cap space, this is a very perplexing move for the team to make. Mason is one of the best guards in the NFL and he is still in his prime at 28 years old. Moving a guy like Mason is going to hurt Mac Jones as well, especially as investing in the o-line is a good move for the Patriots. It helps protect Mac Jones and gives him time to throw the football.
Grades for Shaq Mason Trade
Tampa Bay Buccaneers: A+
New England Patriots: D+
No question who wins this trade here. I love this move for Tampa Bay as the Buccaneers fill a need at guard and did not have to pay a lot via draft capital. The Patriots on the other hand, made a mistake trading Mason. Yes, they save money via salary cap and get a draft pick, but they loose a great offensive lineman who helped protect QB Mac Jones last season. Overall, a great move by Buccaneers GM Jason Licht.
Hello my name is Nicholas and I am a writer for Moore Than Sports. I am a graduate from Farmingdale State College. Currently I am enrolled at Canisius College going for my Masters Degree in Sports Administration. My favorite sports teams are the New York Jets, Jacksonville Jaguars, Charlotte Hornets, Buffalo Sabers, New York Rangers, and New York Yankees. I enjoy watching sports, analyzing transactions, scouting football players, and of course writing sports articles.
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