The New England Patriots were faced with a decision to trade Pro Bowl linebacker Matthew Judon to either the Atlanta Falcons or Chicago Bears. Although they chose the former, the franchise has a reason why they declined the latter’s offer.
The Patriots have traded Judon to the Falcons for a 2025 third-round draft pick. The linebacker, who turns 32 this year, had been practicing with the Patriots after a brief absence from the team, but the two sides were unable to reach an agreement on a new contract.
The Falcons, who have struggled to find a consistent pass rusher since Vic Beasley’s 2016 Pro Bowl season, are hoping Judon can provide a much-needed boost to their defense. Falcons head coach Raheem Morris expressed his excitement about the acquisition, noting his ability to be a game wrecker and comparing the move to the trade for Von Miller that helped the Los Angeles Rams win the Super Bowl in 2021.
For the Patriots, the trade represents a shift in their approach as they rebuild following a 4-13 season. While Judon was a fan favorite and the team’s top pass rusher, the Patriots are prioritizing long-term considerations by acquiring a valuable draft pick. The move also frees up salary cap space, which the team can use to reinvest in other areas of the roster.
The Chicago Bears Offer to The New England Patriots for Matthew Judon
Before Atlanta landed Judon, the Patriots were reportedly engaging the Bears for Judon. In a tweet by Phil Perry on his X account, a key detail of that failed transaction has surfaced.
Patriots had third-rounders on the table from Chicago and Atlanta. Two teams with similar outlooks. Patriots ended up trading Judon to the team he preferred. ⬇️ https://t.co/4yq6Sv5QwP
— Phil Perry (@PhilAPerry) August 18, 2024
The decision was influenced by Judon’s preference to play in Atlanta, and the Patriots prioritized his input in the process. This trade allowed the Patriots to acquire a valuable draft pick while considering Judon’s long-term interests.
It remains to be seen whether Judon can play a more important role in Atlanta or the pick New England gained will yield a better result down the line. In any case, the upcoming season will prove the former and see if the Pro Bowl linebacker still has what it takes to be productive on the court.
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