I did this same think in May of this year.
I wanted a simple quality AR, without breaking the bank. Didn't want any rail systems, or fancy do-dads.
Went with the FN Patrol. Ended up just under a grand for the carbine, then added an MRO, a light I had around, a sling and the LaRue trigger. Had a BAD Lever on it, but that's been removed.
It's been stellar, very accurate, and easy to operate.