Matthew Judon Reportedly Unhappy With Falcons, Not Expected to Return Next Season
Matthew Judon, a veteran outside linebacker, was traded from the New England Patriots to the Atlanta Falcons on Aug. 14, 2024, after rookie Bralen Trice tore his ACL. The Falcons took on Judon's $6.5 million base salary, hoping his experience and pass-rushing skills would boost their defense. Judon, a four-time Pro Bowler, had recorded 12 or more sacks in two of the previous three seasons. But his time in Atlanta fell short of expectations. He finished the 2024 season with 5.5 sacks, 41 tackles, seven tackles for loss and nine quarterback hits, according to NFL Rumors. Pro Football Focus ranked him 70th out of 71 edge rushers.
Judon later said he was frustrated because he was asked to drop into pass coverage on 60% of plays, which limited his chances to rush the quarterback. What was once seen as a strong move by Atlanta was later viewed by some fans and analysts as a disappointment due to the mismatch between Judon's strengths and the team's defensive scheme.
Veteran Linebacker Frustrated With Usage
Judon didn't blame bad luck for his drop in production with the Falcons. Instead, he pointed to how he was used in the defensive scheme. 'Hell naw, (it wasn't bad luck),' Judon said Saturday. 'If you go look at the film, I dropped (into coverage) on 60% of the plays. It's hard to get a pick and a sack on the same play.' He added that he was just following the game plan, saying, 'We got to play the play that's called.'
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When asked about his chances of returning to Atlanta, Judon said it's unlikely, especially after the team invested in younger edge rushers. 'Yeah, probably,' he said. 'And then they had another kid (Bralen Trice) who tore his ACL. They'll want to let them get out there and see what they can do. Hopefully they can be great edges in this league.' As for his future, Judon said he's staying away from offseason programs for now. 'I really haven't gone to OTAs or minicamps since Year 2 in the league,' he said. 'Right now, I'm just weighing the options, chilling and enjoying my family.'
Judon's time in Atlanta didn't go as planned, but he's keeping his options open for the future. Wherever he lands next, he hopes to return to doing what he does best — rushing the quarterback.
Related: Kirk Cousins Trade Rumors: Latest Update on Falcons QB's Future in Atlanta
Related: Why Falcons Fans Are Outraged Over Jalon Walker Wearing Julio Jones' No. 11 Jersey
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