The point is there was a plan in place for MP to be a part of the defensive scheme. No one else on this team fit that role to possibly have the defense continue the same route it was already directed to take. So to make that change a week before, did make a significant difference and I'd agree with
@Diehardblues. Not saying they would have been top ten, but definitely more serviceable imo.
And again, not going to go into it cause I'm tired of saying it, but trading him has zero to do with the ability to sign other players - go see Rams and Eagles years they won the SB. The cap can always be maneuvered if you have a FO is competent. Yes, the picks are nice, but no where near what MP would have garnered if a plan was in place a year ago when the FO knew they weren't going to re-sign him.