The New England Patriots have sent four-time Pro Bowl edge rusher Matthew Judon to the Atlanta Falcons in exchange for a 2025 NFL Draft third-round pick. The move comes after a contract stalemate between Judon and the Patriots, who recently handed out extensions to several other defensive players.
The New England Patriots have shaken up their defense, trading four-time Pro Bowl edge rusher Matthew Judon to the Atlanta Falcons in exchange for a 2025 NFL Draft third-round pick. The move comes after a contract stalemate between the Patriots and Judon, who was set to make $6.5 million in base salary in the final year of his current deal.
Matthew Judon Traded to Atlanta Falcons for 2025 NFL Draft Pick
According to NFL Network's Ian Rapoport, the Falcons and Judon have yet to work out a new contract. Judon is reportedly seeking a long-term deal that reflects his status as one of the NFL's premier edge rushers.
Judon joins an Atlanta defense that is in desperate need of more production on the defensive line. The Falcons lost rookie edge rusher Bralen Trice to injured reserve earlier this week, and they were already thin at the position.
Matthew Judon Traded to Atlanta Falcons for 2025 NFL Draft Pick
Judon has been a force for the Patriots since joining the team in 2021. He has recorded 15.5 sacks, 12.5 sacks, and 4 sacks in the past three seasons, respectively. He has also been named to the Pro Bowl in each of those years.
Prior to joining the Patriots, Judon played for the Baltimore Ravens, where he made his first two Pro Bowls. In eight NFL seasons, Judon has produced 66.5 sacks.
Matthew Judon Traded to Atlanta Falcons for 2025 NFL Draft Pick
The Patriots have been busy this offseason, handing out extensions to several defensive players, including safeties Kyle Dugger and Jabrill Peppers, and defensive lineman Christian Barmore. However, Judon was not among those who received a new deal.
Judon's departure is a significant loss for the Patriots, but it also opens up opportunities for other players on the team's defense. Second-year edge rusher Josh Uche is expected to step into a larger role, while rookie DaMarcus Mitchell could also see more playing time.
The Falcons, meanwhile, are getting a player who can make an immediate impact on their defense. Judon is a proven pass rusher who can also contribute against the run. He will be a valuable addition to a unit that is looking to improve upon its 29th-ranked defense from 2022.
The trade is a win-win for both teams. The Patriots get a draft pick in exchange for a player who was not in their long-term plans, while the Falcons get a much-needed edge rusher. Judon is a proven performer who could help the Falcons make a run at the playoffs in 2023.
