Four-time Pro Bowler linebacker, Matthew Judon makes a cryptic post so is a trade coming? According to a report, Judon may be the latest Patriot to move on from the team after the sack guru made a social post recently that he could be in a new uniform this upcoming season. However, the front office has been handing out extensions to players like it’s Halloween candy so maybe they give him a contract if a holdout happens. Judon’s social media posts now invite questions about his future so that’s up in the air.
The star pass rusher is entering the final year of his contract after signing with the club in 2021. Judon has been missing portions of voluntary camp but was present for mandatory practice. The two sides did go through a similar saga last offseason and the team was able to siphon money from 2024 into 2023. This now leads them to go through the same situation where this time they can’t borrow from future years is not an option.
Judon’s social media activity suggests he wants to join a different team this year. An X user tagged Judon in a post stating “Pay the man what he wants” and he responded, “Ion think that’s about to happen.” He continues to tease the league that he’s going to leave the Patriots if he doesn’t get a new contract. It would be interesting if he requests a trade or wants to test the market as a free agent.
One should note that the Patriots are going to be rebuilding this year with a new quarterback, Drake Maye in a new scenery. New England will rely on youthful talent like Jahlani Tavai, Josh Uche and Anfernee Jennings. Only time can tell what will happen to Judon in the coming days.
— Matthew Judon (@man_dammn) July 3, 2024
Four-Time Pro Bowler Matthew Judon Makes Cryptic Post, Is a Trade Coming?
Possible Destinations
Baltimore Ravens
It’s been three years since Judon left the Baltimore Ravens but a return could be possible. The Ravens may be regretting releasing Judon before he made his debut with the Patriots. However, they have a solid defensive front with Roquan Smith, Kyle Van Noy and Justin Madubuike. Judon has been taking his play to another level, recording 28 sacks in 2021 and 2022.
The star pass rusher has been remarkable even though his injury ended his season last year. However, when healthy, he could put on a monster season that no one could forget. Ravens have just over $6.5 million in cap space so the team may have to mitigate their salary cap with other moves. Baltimore could use some edge help since losing Jadeveon Clowney this offseason.
Judon would be the perfect fit for this scenario since he has familiarity with the Ravens.
Kansas City Chiefs
The Chiefs don’t have a lot of cap space but Judon is someone who the defending Super Bowl champions can use. He has a spot in Kansas City as an edge rusher so no one should count that out. Charles Omenihu isn’t ready to take on a huge load this upcoming year so adding a veteran like Judon would help add some insurance policy. Chris Jones coming back on a monster contract and Judon on the same roster would be a blockbuster duo that would be fearsome for the rest of the league.
Carolina Panthers
The Panthers may be rebuilding like how the Patriots are this season but they still need edge help. Dave Canales wants a strong veteran so he wouldn’t be hesitant to reach out to Judon. Clowney and D.J. Wonnum may be on the same roster but they need someone opposite to help reinforce the defense corps. Judon would become the best available option if he decides to leave New England.
Detroit Lions
If Judon is looking for a trade, this destination would send the league shockwaves and signal the Lions are serious about their Super Bowl chances. Aidan Hutchinson is one the best upcoming pass rushers of the game today so Judon being on the opposite would make this the best formidable defense. The Lions are coming off the best season in recent memory so all of the mojo is in their corner.
