Patriots Now 'Exploring' Signing Matthew Judon Contract Extension - Report

Matthew Judon is one of the few things that has gone right for the new-decade New England Patriots and there may be an opportunity to keep around longer.

Anything that's gone wrong for the New England Patriots over the past three seasons can be somewhat cured by a five-word mantra: at least they have Judon.

Pass rusher Matthew Judon has been the sole source of consistent silver linings for the Patriots since he arrived from Baltimore in 2021, amassing 32 sacks in that span. One of the most brutal blows of last year's woebegone affairs was when Judon suffered a torn lower bicep in the fourth week of the season, necessitating a stay on the injured reserve. 

Cred: The Athletic

Judon is set to return for a fourth season but there are dangerous times ahead: the blitzer becomes a free agent in 2025 and would undoubtedly have his share of suitors if and when he hits the open market. Fortunately for panicking Patriots fans, Mike Reiss of ESPN says that a bargaining period, one that could yield a long-term deal, may be emerging. 

"When the Patriots restructured outside linebacker Matthew Judon's contract last August ... it set the sides up to return to the negotiating table this offseason," Reiss said. "Now, with the first wave of free agency over, it opens a window for the sides to work toward a resolution, which they've begun to preliminarily explore."

"Judon's return from a torn biceps that limited him to four games last season adds a layer to any discussions, as the team will likely want to protect itself with incentives that reward Judon for being on the field."

Judon will obviously do his utmost to stay healthy this year, but staying off the injured list was never a problem in the past: over his first seven seasons, Judon missed only four games due to injury. A torn bicep, however, is a whole new breed of ailment, and the Patriots will likely do whatever they can to protect themselves from any financial pratfalls.

Judon Recruiting Again: Invites Pro Bowl Cornerback to Patriots

When Judon returns to the Patriots' starting lineup, he'll be working in relatively familiar surroundings: New England was able to re-sign fellow pass rusher Josh Uche to a new deal while also welcoming in Sione Takitaki and Armon Watts.