The New England Patriots Trade Matt Judon to the Atlanta Falcons: An In-Depth Analysis
In a surprising move during the NFL offseason, the New England Patriots have decided to trade their four-time Pro Bowl edge rusher, Matt Judon, to the Atlanta Falcons. This decision followed Judon’s hold-in at training camp as he sought a new contract. According to CBS Sports’ lead NFL insider Jonathan Jones, the Falcons acquired Judon in exchange for a third-round pick, per ESPN reports. This article delves into the details and implications of this major trade.
The Trade Details
Matt Judon’s impressive performance over the past few seasons has made him one of the most formidable edge rushers in the NFL. From 2021 to 2022, Judon accumulated 28.0 sacks, ranking him third in the league alongside Steelers’ All-Pro T.J. Watt. Only the 49ers’ Nick Bosa (34.0) and Browns’ Myles Garrett (32.0) surpassed him during this period. Unfortunately, a torn lower bicep in Week 4 of the 2023 season sidelined Judon for the remainder of the year.
Judon’s Impact on the Patriots
Judon’s 15.5 sacks in 2022 and 12.5 sacks in 2021 are the third and fourth-highest single-season totals in Patriots history since sacks became an official statistic in 1982. His presence on the field was undeniable, with a quarterback pressure rate of 15.7% across the last three seasons, placing him seventh in the league, even ahead of T.J. Watt’s 15.1%.
The Falcons’ Strategic Move
The Atlanta Falcons have struggled with their pass rush in recent years. Their team quarterback pressure rate of 27.6% since 2021 is the worst in the NFL. In 2023, they ranked 25th in quarterback pressure rate (32.7%) and tied for 21st in sacks (42.0). By acquiring Judon, the Falcons aim to address this significant need.
Recent Falcons’ Defensive Acquisitions
Before Judon, the Falcons’ most notable front-seven addition was drafting Clemson defensive lineman Ruke Orhorhoro in the second round (35th overall) of the 2024 NFL Draft. Washington edge rusher Bralen Trice, their third-round pick, was placed on injured reserve after tearing his ACL in the preseason opener.
Falcons’ Previous Attempts to Bolster Pass Rush
The Judon trade follows two failed attempts by the Falcons to trade for pass-rush help. They tried to acquire Montez Sweat from the Washington Commanders, who was eventually traded to the Chicago Bears. They also attempted to trade up in the draft to select UCLA edge rusher Laiatu Latu, but the Indianapolis Colts picked him 15th overall.
The Patriots’ Perspective
For the Patriots, this trade aligns with their rebuilding strategy. With a 4-13 record and their worst scoring offense since 1992, paying an aging pass rusher like Judon didn’t make sense. New head coach Jerod Mayo and executive vice president of player personnel Eliot Wolf made a strategic decision reminiscent of former head coach Bill Belichick’s approach.
Patriots’ Rebuilding Efforts
The Patriots selected North Carolina quarterback Drake Maye third overall in the 2024 NFL Draft and signed Jacoby Brissett to a one-year deal to mentor Maye. Accumulating draft capital is crucial for the Patriots to build a competitive team under the new regime of Wolf and Mayo.
Potential Outcomes and Considerations
Falcons’ Hopes and Risks
The Falcons are making a bold move to end their six-season playoff drought. They recently signed quarterback Kirk Cousins to a four-year, $180 million deal with $100 million guaranteed. Addressing their pass rush by acquiring Judon fills a critical need. However, Judon is 32 and coming off a season-ending injury. Additionally, the Falcons don’t have a new contract for Judon yet, posing a potential risk similar to the New York Jets’ situation with Haason Reddick.
Patriots’ Draft Capital Gain
The Patriots received a third-round pick, which is valuable for a team in rebuild mode. However, not securing a first- or second-round pick slightly diminishes the trade’s impact. Nonetheless, flipping an aging, injured player for draft capital is a solid move by the Patriots’ front office.
FAQs
Why did the Patriots trade Matt Judon?
The Patriots are in a rebuilding phase and preferred to gain draft capital rather than pay an aging player seeking a new contract.
How did Matt Judon perform with the Patriots?
Judon had an impressive tenure with the Patriots, accumulating 28.0 sacks from 2021 to 2022 and ranking third in the NFL during that period.
What does this trade mean for the Falcons?
The Falcons aim to improve their struggling pass rush by acquiring Judon, hoping to end their six-season playoff drought.
What are the risks for the Falcons in this trade?
Judon is 32 years old and coming off a season-ending injury. The Falcons also haven’t secured a new contract for him yet, posing potential risks.
How does this trade benefit the Patriots?
The Patriots gain valuable draft capital to aid their rebuilding efforts under new leadership.
Conclusion
The trade of Matt Judon to the Atlanta Falcons marks a significant move for both teams. The Falcons address a critical need in their pass rush, while the Patriots secure valuable draft capital for their rebuilding process. Both teams have taken steps to achieve their goals for the 2024 season and beyond. However, the success of this trade will largely depend on Judon’s performance and health, as well as the Patriots’ ability to utilize their newfound draft capital effectively.
