Falcons jump at chance to lure disgraced pass rusher to Massachusetts
A trade was possible for Matthew Judon due to discussions regarding a contract extension with the Patriots. However, the Massachusetts franchise took the lead, and finally decided to trade their pass rusher according to Bleacher Report. The 31-year-old player is sent to the Falcons for a 3rd round pick in the 2025 Draft.
According to NFL Network, discussions with the Patriots have intensified in recent days. However, the two parties were unable to reach an agreement according to ESPN. A few weeks before the start of the season, one of the Patriots' best defenders is leaving the club, leaving a weakened pass rush, despite some potential. In addition, their best pass rusher Christian Barmore (8.5 sacks) is still on injured reserve, and is uncertain for the start of the season.
One last big contract for the Falcons?
Entering the final year of his contract, Matthew Judon will now try to reach an agreement with the Falcons front office for a contract extension. General manager Terry Fontenot is not afraid to put money on players over 30 years old. The proof is in Kirk Cousins, who landed a big contract with the franchise.
For the Falcons, Matthew Judon will try to energize a pass rusher squad that has no clear leader. To top it all off, the top 2 players in sacks last season left last offseason (Bud Dupree and Calais Campbell), and they just lost their rookie Bralen Trice for the season. With the four-time Pro Bowler, the Falcons get back an experienced pass rusher who has 66.5 career sacks in 114 games. He should start the 2024 season as a starter after playing only 4 games last season. Enough to produce 4 sacks nonetheless.
