Ex-Patriots sack artist could end up signing with rival Jets

The New England Patriots have made some key additions to their defense this offseason. However, one of their former defenders could end up signing with the New York Jets.

The Patriots traded Matt Judon to the Atlanta Falcons before the 2024 season. However, the Falcons did not sign him to an extension, and now he is a free agent. Sports Illustrated's Patrick McAvoy suggested he could sign with the Jets, making his return to the AFC East.

"Judon spent the 2024 season with the Falcons and had 5 1/2 sacks in 17 games played," wrote McAvoy. "New York fans have gotten a good look at Judon as he spent three years with the Patriots. He only played four games in 2023 and had four sacks. He was one of the best defensive ends in football in 2021 and 2022 as he racked up 28 sacks in 34 games played.

"Judon also has a reputation that he's a great teammate," Judon continued. "With all of these young guys in the organization, it wouldn't hurt to add a few experienced veterans into the mix and Judon is a guy who could have a low-cost but big-impact. He's already thrived in the AFC East. Should the Jets bring him to town?"

Judon originally signed a four-year, $54 million deal with the Patriots in 2021. He was an elite player early in his Patriots tenure, but in 2023, an elbow injury cost him most of the season.

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Judon is 32 years old now and no longer in his prime. However, he could be a good veteran presence for the Jets. He would not be an expensive signing at this point in the offseason either. However, Patriots fans would quickly forget his 12.5-sack 2021 season and 15.5-sack 2022 season if he signed with their rival.

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