Matt Judon Traded to Atlanta Falcons: A New Chapter for Both Teams
In a significant move that has sent ripples through the NFL, the Atlanta Falcons have acquired four-time Pro Bowl edge rusher Matt Judon from the New England Patriots. The trade, which saw the Patriots receive a third-round pick in exchange, promises to reshape the defensive dynamics for both teams involved.
Judon’s tenure with the Patriots has been nothing short of impressive. From 2021 to 2022, he recorded an astounding 28.0 sacks, tying for the third-most in the NFL over that period. His performance in 2022, where he notched up 15.5 sacks, was particularly notable, marking the third-highest single-season sack total in Patriots history since 1982. The previous year was no less impressive, with Judon achieving 12.5 sacks, ranking fourth on the same list.
Unfortunately, Judon’s 2023 season was cut short due to a torn lower bicep sustained in Week 4. Despite this setback, his prowess on the field has been undeniable. Over the past three seasons, Judon's quarterback pressure rate stood at an impressive 15.7%, positioning him seventh in the league. This remarkable consistency and ability to disrupt plays have made him a coveted player, leading to the Falcons’ concerted efforts to bring him on board.
“The trade for Judon represents a hard-fought victory for Atlanta after striking out twice when trying to trade for pass-rush help within the past year,” noted an insider. Indeed, the Falcons' defense has struggled in recent years, with the team ranking 25th in the NFL for the 2023 season with a 32.7% pressure rate. They have been actively seeking to bolster their defense, illustrated by their attempted trades for Montez Sweat before he was moved to the Chicago Bears, and their efforts to draft highly-touted UCLA edge rusher, Laiatu Latu.
Atlanta’s defense has long been an area of concern. Since 2021, the Falcons have had the worst team quarterback pressure rate at 27.6%. They tied for 21st in the league with only 42.0 sacks during the 2023 season. The last time a Falcons player recorded double-digit sacks in a season was Vic Beasley in 2016, who tallied 15.5 sacks. Clearly, the addition of Judon aims to address a critical weakness.
Judon’s arrival appears to be a beacon of hope for Atlanta, a team eager to end its playoff drought dating back to 2016. The Falcons have also bolstered their offense by signing quarterback Kirk Cousins to a four-year, $180 million deal, with $100 million guaranteed. This dual approach of strengthening both offense and defense reflects their commitment to becoming a competitive force once again.
On the Patriots’ side, the trade marks a strategic move under the new leadership of head coach Jerod Mayo and executive vice president of player personnel Eliot Wolf. Mayo and Wolf are tasked with rebuilding a franchise that finished the 2023 season with a disappointing 4-13 record, and their lowest scoring offense (13.9 points per game) since 1992. “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,” noted a source close to the team.
In the 2024 NFL Draft, the Patriots selected North Carolina quarterback Drake Maye third overall, signaling a new direction for their offense. To mentor the young quarterback, they have also signed Jacoby Brissett to a one-year deal. The veterans' influence is expected to be instrumental in shaping the early years of Maye’s career.
Judon’s transition to the Falcons, however, seems to be off to a positive start. “For now, that type of drama playing out feels unlikely with Judon expressing his excitement for this new home by showing he is already figuring out where to live in relation to his new home stadium, Mercedes-Benz Stadium, on his Instagram story,” shared an observer.
The trade signifies more than just a swap of players; it represents a strategic pivot for both teams. For the Falcons, it’s a chance to reinvigorate a beleaguered defense with a proven pass-rusher. For the Patriots, it’s an opportunity to invest in future talent and rebuild a storied franchise. As Judon dons the Falcons' colors, all eyes will be on how he impacts a team desperately in need of his skillset.