Russ Hochstein's agent, Joe Linta, confirmed that his client has been traded by the Patriots to the Denver Broncos today.
A league source confirmed the deal was for a late-round pick.
Linta said Hochstein, who had been with the Patriots since 2002, was surprised by the news, but said that Denver was a great landing spot for Hochstein, who is from Hartington, Neb., because it is close to his home and he is familiar with Broncos coach Josh McDaniels, the Patriots former offensive coordinator.
"If Russ had to go anywhere it's Denver because it's close to his home and he is friendly with Josh and he has his buddies Lonie Paxton and Brandon Gorin there," said Linta. "If he had to go anywhere that's where he'd go. "Obviously, he had a great relationship with the whole Patriots organization. It's tough, but he has a good chance to extend his career out there."
Linta acknowlegded that the versatile Hochstein, who has played guard, center and even fullback for the Patriots, was caught up in a little bit of a numbers game because of the depth the Patriots have along the offensive line.
"They got several good linemen and somebody is not making it and somebody good besides him is not making it," said Linta. "I don't know that he wouldn't have made it, but if you can get something for someone on the bubble that is the whole idea of trades this time of year."
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