The New England Patriots are facing a potential trade involving star pass rusher Matthew Judon, according to ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler. Multiple NFL teams have expressed interest in acquiring Judon as he seeks a new contract heading into the 2024 season.
Judon, who is set to make $6.5 million in the final year of his current deal with the Patriots, has been holding out of practice after the two sides failed to reach an agreement on a new contract. New England reportedly offered several revised contracts to Judon before the start of training camp, but no deal was finalized.
Last season, Judon’s playing time was limited to just four games due to a biceps injury suffered in Week 4 against the Dallas Cowboys. Despite the injury-shortened season, Judon has had a successful career, earning Pro Bowl honors in each of the four years leading up to his injury-plagued 2023 campaign.
During a heated exchange with Patriots head coach Jerod Mayo at a training camp practice on July 29, Judon’s frustrations seemed to boil over, leading to his departure from the practice field.
Despite the recent drama, Patriots defensive coordinator Demarcus Covington had nothing but praise for Judon’s overall contributions to the team. “He’s been the same for us. For us and the defensive staff, he’s been Judon,” Covington told reporters. “He’s been Matt Judon. He’s been great in the classroom. He’s been great for us in practice.”
As trade rumors continue to swirl around Judon, it remains to be seen whether he will remain with the Patriots or move on to a new team for the upcoming season. Stay tuned for further updates as the situation develops.