The Patriots' decision to trade star pass rusher Matthew Judon during the preseason was shocking to most analysts and fans, even though many things seemed to inevitably lead to it. After a bumpy few weeks in Foxboro, Judon became the best linebacker on the Falcons, and it was assumed that he would leave a big hole on the Patriots defense in his absence.
At the start of the season, Keion White stepped up big time and proved to be the pass rusher that the team needed, making the Judon trade look better and more worth it, on top of the third round pick they received in return.
The move looked even better in the months since, as Judon has struggled to replicate the kind of production he accomplished in three years with the Patriots, until he accomplished something he never did in Week 16.
Matthew Judon might finally be back to his usual self this season
For what has predominately been a forgettable first year in Atlanta, Judon snagged a pick-six against the Giants on Sunday, furthering the Falcons' lead.
.@man_dammn pick six?!@man_dammn PICK SIX!!!
— Atlanta Falcons (@AtlantaFalcons) December 22, 2024
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It's not only something he never accomplished as a Patriot; it's actually the first touchdown of his career, making it that much more impressive.
This could be the start of Judon's return to his productive self we saw throughout his two Pro Bowl years with the Patriots. Although it's late in the season, it's better late than never, especially for a guy hoping to land a new contract with the Falcons or another team in free agency.
It couldn't be happening at a better time since there are only two games left on the year, and he could be considered one of the better available pass rushers next offseason. He proved he was a valuable asset during his years with the Patriots, and outside of an injury that ended his year early in 2023, he looked to be well on his way to being named to another Pro Bowl for the third year in a row.
That will hold a lot of weight for teams looking to improve their defensive line, the Patriots being one of them.