Hobbs traded to Philly

[Dice-J]

In what might be a prelude to a trade of cornerback Sheldon Brown, the Philadelphia Eagles acquired cornerback Ellis Hobbs from the New England Patriots for two fifth-round draft choices.

The deal Sunday, in which the Patriots further stockpiled draft choices with the 137th and 141st picks overall, came in the wake of Brown's request last week for a trade. Brown is unhappy with his current contract, but Eagles president Joe Banner had previously indicated the veteran will not be dealt.

The Eagles recently traded one-time starting cornerback Lito Sheppard to the New York Jets.

Hobbs, 25, could replace Brown, if the latter is traded, or become Philly's nickel cornerback. The team, however, is believed to be pleased with the play of current nickel corner Joselio Hanson, who last year signed a contract extension.

There had been no indication prior to the draft that Hobbs could be available in a trade. Despite the many rumors surrounding other players, Hobbs is the first veteran to be traded in this draft.

With Hobbs entering the final year of his rookie contract, with a 2009 base salary of $2.545 million, according to NFL Players Association records, Philadelphia may seek to negotiate an extension with him.

A four-year veteran, Hobbs started all 16 games in each of the past two seasons. In 2008, he had 47 tackles, three interceptions, and 11 passes defensed. The former Iowa State standout has played in 63 games, with 49 starts, and has 198 tackles, 2.5 sacks, nine interceptions and 36 passes defensed.

The trade of Hobbs, who also returned kickoffs for New England, further indicates that Patriots coach Bill Belichick was not happy with the play of his cornerbacks last season. The Patriots are rebuilding the cornerback spot, and chose Darius Butler of Connecticut in the second round Saturday.

Man, really liked Hobbs. Glad to see were most likely going to start Butler now though