The New England Patriots have traded four-time Pro Bowl edge rusher Matthew Judon to the Atlanta Falcons for a 2025 third-round draft pick, according to multiple sources. The trade comes amid a contract dispute, with Judon seeking a new deal to replace his current contract, which has a base salary of $6.5 million for the upcoming season.Judon, who turns 32 this week, has been a dominant force for the Patriots, recording 28 sacks in his first two seasons with the team. However, his 2023 season was cut short due to injuries, including a torn bicep, limiting him to just four sacks in four games.The Falcons, who haven’t had a player with double-digit sacks since Vic Beasley in 2016, acquired Judon to bolster their pass rush. This move comes after the team lost rookie edge rusher Bralen Trice to a season-ending knee injury in their first preseason game.Despite the significant player movement, oddsmakers have not adjusted their predictions for either team. The Patriots’ odds remain at +18000 to win the Super Bowl and +900 to make the playoffs, while the Falcons are still favored to win the NFC South.The trade marks a significant shift for both teams. For the Patriots, it represents the departure of arguably their best player in the post-Tom Brady era. For the Falcons, who signed quarterback Kirk Cousins in the offseason, the addition of Judon could be a key piece in their push for a division title.As the NFL preseason continues, this trade stands out as one of the most significant moves of the period, showcasing the fluid nature of team rosters and the ongoing negotiations between players and management.
Key points
- The Patriots traded Matthew Judon to the Falcons for a 2025 third-round pick amid a contract dispute.
- Judon, a four-time Pro Bowler, had 28 sacks in his first two seasons with the Patriots.
- The Falcons acquired Judon to boost their pass rush, which hasn’t had a player with double-digit sacks since 2016.
- Despite the trade, oddsmakers have not adjusted their predictions for either team.
Contradictions👾While most sources report that Judon had 28 sacks in his first two seasons with the Patriots, one source mentions he had 28 sacks in his first two seasons but only four last year due to injuries.
