The New England Patriots lost Matthew Judon this week via a trade that sent him to Atlanta , and there are many questions lingering. The main concern among fans, is what will the production from the defensive line look like in 2024? The Patriots have quite a few weapons on the defensive side of the ball, but the engine that ran the entire unit was Judon. After his departure, there are a few players that could step up and have a great year, but it could also be the pass rush unit as a whole that makes the difference. Now, who are some of the players that could make themselves into a top name in the NFL this coming fall.
One of the first players that comes to mind is defensive end Keion White, who is entering his second year in the NFL. He had a somewhat slow season in 2023, just trying to get accustomed to life at the next level, but he still showed some incredible flashes of potential. For example, in the 2023 season opener against the Eagles, he made some great plays and consistently pressured Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts. At six-foot-five inches, two hundred and eighty five pounds, White is a massive individual, now add that into his speed and athleticism, the Patriots may have the next big time star on their defensive line. Many reports from Patriots training camp have stated that White is looking ready for a serious breakout season.
Keion White is mostly known for being a power rusher, and using his strength to make his presence known. New England has a great complement to that skill set in their outside linebacker, Joshua Uche. Uche is a great speed rusher, using his athleticism to get around pass protections, to get after the quarterback. Uche had a bit of a down season in 2023 only recording three sacks, but back in 2022 he had eleven and a half sacks. Could New England fans see the old version of Uche return as he is put more into the spotlight as the Patriots number one pass rush option? Only time will tell, and if everything goes to plan, the NFL could see a scary new duo in Foxborough with Joshua Uche and Keion White.
The Patriots may have found a new complementary weapon on the defensive line
The Patriots signed free agent linebacker Oshane Ximines, back in April. Ximines a former New York Giant, has been turning some heads during the preseason in Foxborough. He showed some serious potential in the preseason games, getting consistent pressure on quarterbacks. He could be a sneaky good pickup for New England, which will help with the loss of Judon. If Keion White, Joshua Uche, and Ximines play up to their potential, fans could see an impressive pass rush unit in 2024.
