The New England Patriots traded away veteran 4th string tight end Michael Hoomanawanui to the New Orleans Saints in exchange for 6'5, 325 lbs defensive lineman Akiem Hicks.
Hicks was a rising star in New Orleans before the entire franchise imploded. The front office completely mismanaged the salary cap and a once-annual Super Bowl contender should now enter rebuilding mode.
For his part, Hicks never developed as the coaching staff desired and constant injuries hampered his growth. Hicks finished the 2014 season on the injured reserve and was sidelined during joint practices against the Patriots in the 2015 preseason due to a minor injury.