The Patriots and their star pass rusher, Matthew Judon, are having trouble agreeing on a new contract. Judon is in the final year of a four-year, $54.5 million contract he signed back in 2021. This season, he’s only set to make $6.5 million, which is a bargain for one of the NFL’s top pass rushers.
Judon, who’s 32, had a tough 2023 season with a serious biceps injury that ended his year early. However, he was a standout performer in his first two seasons with the Patriots, setting career highs with 12.5 sacks in 2021 and 15.5 sacks in 2022, and even received votes for AP Defensive Player of the Year. Before his injury last year, he had already notched 4 sacks in just four games. Now fully recovered, he’s ready for the upcoming season.
Recently, there were rumors that New England offered Judon a new contract extension, but Judon denied this on social media. During the ongoing contract discussions, he missed two days of practice and had a heated exchange with the new head coach, Jerod Mayo, before being sent home temporarily. Despite these issues, Judon is back at practice and expected to play for the Patriots this season under his current deal. However, several other teams have reportedly shown interest in trading for him.
Here’s a look at the possible trade destinations for Judon:
San Francisco 49ers
- Current Situation: The 49ers have been aggressive in trying to improve their roster. They were previously in talks with the Patriots about trading for wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk, but that deal fell through. If Judon becomes available, San Francisco might look to make a new deal.
- Fit: With star pass rusher Nick Bosa already on the team and the recent addition of Leonard Floyd, adding Judon could make their pass rush even more formidable.
- Trade Consideration: The 49ers might offer a future third- or fourth-round pick based on recent trades involving top pass rushers.
Chicago Bears
- Current Situation: The Bears are gearing up to compete this season with a revamped roster. While they’ve focused heavily on improving their offense, their defense could use a boost.
- Fit: Judon could be a key addition to their defense, especially after the Bears traded for Montez Sweat last season. Chicago is looking to make a significant impact and might see Judon as a valuable asset.
- Trade Consideration: The Bears might be willing to trade draft picks to strengthen their defense further.
Detroit Lions
- Current Situation: After a strong 2023 season where they made it to the NFC Championship game, the Lions are aiming to improve their defense.
- Fit: Adding Judon alongside young star Aidan Hutchinson could create a dynamic pass-rushing duo. Detroit’s defense needs improvement to match their high-powered offense.
- Trade Consideration: The Lions could be interested in trading future draft picks to get Judon and enhance their chances of reaching the Super Bowl.
Los Angeles Rams
- Current Situation: The Rams are known for making bold trades to build a championship-caliber team. With Aaron Donald retired, they need a new top pass rusher.
- Fit: Judon would be a great fit to replace Donald and bolster their defensive line. The Rams are not afraid to trade draft picks for star players.
- Trade Consideration: The Rams might be willing to part with significant draft assets to acquire Judon and maintain their competitive edge.
If Judon does become available, these teams could be potential suitors, each with their own reasons for wanting to add him to their roster.
