Team acquires defensive lineman in exchange for edge rusher and multiple future draft picks

A defensive lineman was sent to a new team in exchange for an edge rusher and three future draft selections on June 1. The acquiring side added draft capital late in negotiations after initially trying to retain the edge rusher, a source said. The defensive lineman had previously requested a trade and later waived his no-trade clause.

Background on the outgoing player The outgoing player had been viewed as the face of the franchise. Officials had described him as a "career" member of the organization as recently as March. The team had won eight games over the prior two seasons and had already moved on from several aging veterans.

Officials said the trade satisfied three conditions: short- and long-term benefits, a young cost-controlled player at a premium position, and premium draft capital.

Details of the incoming player The incoming edge rusher is 25 years old and has earned Pro Bowl honors in each of his first two seasons. He has two years plus a fifth-year option remaining on his rookie contract. Officials said the player allows the team to maintain its defensive standard. A team source valued him at a first-round pick plus.

Reactions and context The defensive lineman said the opportunity to play in obvious passing situations late in games appealed to him.

“Knowing I'll have the ability late in games to pin my ears back, not just because we need a play to be made, but because we have the lead and it's obvious passing downs." — Defensive lineman, last week Officials said the decision was not part of an initial offseason plan but reflected flexibility when an unexpected opportunity arose. The trade occurred one week before the current date.”