In a surprising move, the New England Patriots have traded their star edge rusher, Matt Judon, to the Atlanta Falcons. Judon, a four-time Pro Bowl selection, has been a cornerstone of the Patriots' defense since joining the team, contributing significantly to their pass rush with 28.0 sacks recorded from 2021 through 2022, a number tied for the third-most in the NFL over that period.
Atlanta’s New Weapon
For the Atlanta Falcons, this acquisition marks a crucial step in addressing their longstanding pass-rushing woes. Since 2021, the Falcons have struggled with the worst team quarterback pressure rate in the league, most recently ranking 25th with a 32.7% pressure rate for the 2023 season and tying for 21st in sacks with 42.0 sacks. Bringing in a player of Judon’s caliber is expected to significantly bolster their defensive front.
Falcons fans can breathe a sigh of relief as Judon will be looking to inject life into a pass rush that has been largely ineffective since the days of Vic Beasley, who last recorded double-digit sacks for the team with 15.5 in 2016.
Judon’s impact on the field is undeniable. His 15.5 sack season in 2022 and 12.5 sack season in 2021 rank as the third and fourth-most in a single season in Patriots history since 1982. Additionally, his quarterback pressure rate of 15.7% over the past three seasons places him seventh in the league, emphasizing his consistency and prowess as an elite pass rusher.
Atlanta's Struggles and New Aspirations
The Falcons have been actively seeking to address their defensive woes this off-season. They attempted to trade for Montez Sweat before he was sent to the Chicago Bears and made efforts to move up in the draft to acquire UCLA’s All-American edge rusher, Laiatu Latu, who ultimately went to the Indianapolis Colts at 15th overall. They also invested in young talent, drafting Ruke Orhorhoro from Clemson in the second round.
Judon’s addition, however, represents a significant victory for the Falcons' front office. One source close to the matter noted, “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.” This sentiment reflects the team's persistent efforts to enhance their defensive lineup.
Judon, despite an injury-shortened 2023 season due to a torn lower bicep in Week 4, has shown an enthusiastic response to his move to Atlanta. “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 another insider.
New Beginnings for the Patriots
For the Patriots, this trade signals a strategic pivot. Receiving a third-round pick from the Falcons, New England's focus appears to be on building a competitive team for the future. With head coach Jerod Mayo and executive vice president of player personnel Eliot Wolf at the helm, the Patriots are undergoing significant changes, highlighted by their drafting of North Carolina quarterback Drake Maye third overall in the 2024 NFL Draft and signing veteran quarterback Jacoby Brissett to mentor him.
This restructuring comes after a challenging 2023 season where the Patriots finished with a 4-13 record, marking their worst performance in decades. Their scoring offense was the lowest since 1992, averaging just 13.9 points per game. Such a shake-up was inevitable, and the organization seems committed to acquiring draft capital to rebuild. “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,” another source indicated.
Looking Ahead
The Falcons, meanwhile, continue to make bold moves to end their playoff drought, which dates back to 2016. Along with Judon, they have signed quarterback Kirk Cousins to a four-year, $180 million deal. Atlanta is not shying away from making substantial investments to ensure they return to playoff relevance.
As the new season approaches, all eyes will be on how Judon integrates into the Falcons' defense and whether his presence can finally transform Atlanta's pass rush into a formidable force. Fans and analysts alike are eager to see if these strategic moves will pay dividends on the field.