Matt Judon Traded to Falcons: A Game-Changer on the Horizon?
In a significant move that has sent ripples across the NFL, Matt Judon, the four-time Pro Bowl edge rusher, was traded to the Atlanta Falcons by the New England Patriots. The Patriots parted ways with Judon in exchange for a third-round pick, a decision that marks a notable shift for both franchises.
Judon’s distinguished career includes an impressive tally of 28.0 sacks from 2021 to 2022, a period during which he was tied for the third-most sacks in the league. His stellar performance is further underlined by his 15.5 sack season in 2022 and a 12.5 sack season in 2021, ranking as the third and fourth-most in a single season in Patriots history since 1982. Unfortunately, his momentum was cut short in 2023 due to a torn lower bicep sustained in Week 4.
The Falcons, who have endured a playoff drought since 2016, are optimistic that Judon’s prowess will bolster their defensive line. Vic Beasley was the last Falcons player to record double-digit sacks in a season, with 15.5 in 2016. Adding Judon to their roster could be exactly what the team needs. His quarterback pressure rate over the past three seasons stands at 15.7%, placing him seventh in the league—a stark contrast to the Falcons' struggles in this area. The team has had the worst quarterback pressure rate at 27.6% since 2021 and ranked 25th in the NFL for the 2023 season with a 32.7% pressure rate.
The trade was described as a “hard-fought victory for Atlanta after striking out twice when trying to trade for pass-rush help within the past year.” Indeed, the Falcons had previously made attempts to acquire Montez Sweat before he was traded to the Chicago Bears at the 2023 trade deadline. They also tried to trade up to draft UCLA All-American edge rusher Laiatu Latu, who was eventually selected by the Indianapolis Colts at 15th overall. Additionally, the Falcons drafted Ruke Orhorhoro from Clemson in the second round, demonstrating their commitment to strengthening their defensive line.
Judon’s move to Atlanta comes after a period of uncertainty in New England. He held-in during the Patriots' training camp, seeking a new contract, which may have precipitated his trade to the Falcons. On social media, Judon has already started to express his excitement for the move, sharing on his Instagram story that he is figuring out where to live in relation to his new home stadium, Mercedes-Benz Stadium.
From the Patriots' perspective, the trade reflects a broader strategy under new leadership. Head coach Jerod Mayo and executive vice president of player personnel Eliot Wolf are spearheading efforts to rebuild the team following a dismal 4-13 season in 2023—their worst scoring offense since 1992 at 13.9 points per game. “This is an organization that needs as much draft capital as possible to give its new regime of Wolf and Mayo what it needs to put together a competitive club over the next few years,” an insider commented.
In their quest to restructure, the Patriots made significant moves in the 2024 NFL Draft, selecting North Carolina quarterback Drake Maye third overall and signing Jacoby Brissett to a one-year deal to mentor the young talent. Meanwhile, the Falcons not only secured Judon but also made a blockbuster signing of their own, with quarterback Kirk Cousins joining on a four-year, $180 million deal, including $100 million guaranteed.
As both teams aim to reshape their future, the trade of Matt Judon could prove pivotal. For the Falcons, it addresses a crucial weakness in their defense. For the Patriots, it’s a step towards acquiring the draft capital needed to rebuild a struggling franchise. Time will tell how this trade will impact both teams, but one thing is certain: the NFL landscape is set for another intriguing chapter.