Patriots Agree to Trade Defensive End Matthew Judon to Falcons, per Report

Jul 26, 2024; Foxborough, MA, USA; New England Patriots linebacker Matthew Judon (9) tosses a ball to fans during training camp at Gillette Stadium.
Jul 26, 2024; Foxborough, MA, USA; New England Patriots linebacker Matthew Judon (9) tosses a ball to fans during training camp at Gillette Stadium. / Eric Canha-USA TODAY Sports

After a tense offseason between the two parties, the New England Patriots have reportedly put their situation with defensive end Matthew Judon to bed.

The Patriots are trading Judon to the Atlanta Falcons for a third-round draft pick, according to a Wednesday afternoon report from Ian Rapoport of NFL Network.

Judon, 31, is entering the final year of a four-year deal.

It was believed for much of this offseason that the Grand Valley State product wanted a new contract with New England; Judon's frustration extended to the practice field, where he traded words with Patriots coach Jerod Mayo on July 29.

Judon has made four Pro Bowls in his eight-year career—two with the Baltimore Ravens and two with New England. In his most recent full season in 2022, Judon racked up 15.5 sacks in 17 games.

The Falcons, who have gone 7–10 in each of the last three seasons, are looking to win their first NFC South title since 2016 in a wide-open division.


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Patrick Andres

PATRICK ANDRES

Patrick Andres is a staff writer on the Breaking and Trending News team at Sports Illustrated. He joined SI in December 2022, having worked for The Blade, Athlon Sports, Fear the Sword and Diamond Digest. Andres has covered everything from zero-attendance Big Ten basketball to a seven-overtime college football game. He is a graduate of Northwestern University's Medill School of Journalism with a double major in history .