A five-word phrase that can partially explain the New England Patriots’ three-season struggles is “at least they have Judon.”
Since coming to the Patriots from Baltimore in 2021, pass rusher Matthew Judon—who has 32 sacks over that time—has been the only constant bright spot. The fact that Judon had to spend the fourth week of the season on the injured reserve due to a torn lower bicep was one of the cruelest blows of last year’s tragic events.
Although Judon is scheduled to remain for a fourth season, he faces risky times ahead: the blitzer will become a free agency in 2025 and will surely attract a number of suitors if and when he does. Thankfully for terrified Patriots supporters, Mike Reiss of ESPN reports that a period of negotiations that might result in a long-term agreement is starting to take shape.
Judon will undoubtedly work hard to be healthy this season, but he has never had trouble staying off the injured list—in his first seven seasons, he missed just four games owing to injury. But a ripped bicep is a whole different kind of injury, and the Patriots will probably take all necessary precautions to guard against any financial mishaps.
Judon will be back in a somewhat familiar environment when he rejoins the Patriots starting lineup: Sione Takitaki and Armon Watts have joined the team, while fellow pass rusher Josh Uche has been able to re-sign.
