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Matthew Judon reportedly got what he wanted.
The New England Patriots traded the pass-rusher to the Atlanta Falcons for a 2025 third-round pick, and Phil Perry of NBC Sports Boston and Albert Breer of The MMQB each reported the AFC East team gave Judon a choice when it came to his landing spot.
Since the Falcons and Chicago Bears each offered third-round picks, the Patriots asked Judon his preference and responded accordingly by trading him to Atlanta.
Judon is 32 years old and looking to win his first career Super Bowl. He was surely hoping to join a win-now situation, and an argument can be made that the Falcons are better set up to contend in the upcoming season.
While there is plenty of optimism and excitement in Chicago with No. 1 overall pick Caleb Williams under center, it may take the rookie some time to fully adjust to the NFL level. By comparison, the Falcons added veteran Kirk Cousins at quarterback this offseason and will be focused on pursuing a title this season.
The long-term ceiling may be higher for the Bears, but Atlanta added some veterans in Cousins, Judon and Justin Simmons this offseason and don’t have to worry about competing in the same division as the Detroit Lions and Green Bay Packers.
It is an unfortunate development for the Bears, as they could have used another impact pass-rusher to play alongside Montez Sweat.
But Chicago’s hypothetical loss is Atlanta’s gain, as it has one of the most consistent pass-rushers in the league ready to bolster the defensive effort.
Judon was a Pro Bowler in four consecutive seasons from 2019 through 2022. He posted 15.5 sacks in 2022 alone and was nearly unblockable for extended stretches.
However, Judon was limited to just four games in 2023 because of a bicep injury. There is no guarantee he will return to his previous form, especially at this point of his career. He is also playing on the final year of his deal and would be something of a risky long-term signing given his age and recent injury history.
Still, the Falcons are looking to win this season, and Judon wanted to be a part of it.
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