The Atlanta Falcons made a significant move by acquiring four-time Pro Bowl edge rusher Matt Judon from the New England Patriots. In exchange for Judon, the Patriots received a third-round pick, signaling a strategic shift for both franchises as they look towards the future.
Judon's Impact on the Falcons
For the Falcons, this trade represents a much-needed boost to their pass rush, an area in which they have struggled mightily over recent years. Since 2021, the Falcons have had the worst team quarterback pressure rate in the NFL, a meager 27.6%. Despite a slight improvement in the 2023 season with a pressure rate of 32.7%, they still ranked 25th in the league and tied for 21st in sacks with a total of 42.0.
Judon's addition could be the catalyst for change that the Falcons desperately need. Judon recorded an impressive 28.0 sacks from 2021 to 2022, ranking him third in the NFL over that period. His 15.5 sack season in 2022 and 12.5 sack season in 2021 are both among the top single seasons in Patriots history, indicating his consistent ability to affect the game.
Judon's quarterback pressure rate over the past three seasons stands at 15.7%, placing him seventh in the league. This level of performance is precisely what Atlanta has been missing since Vic Beasley's 15.5 sack season in 2016 — the last time a Falcons player recorded double-digit sacks.
A Strategic Move for the Patriots
On the other side of the trade, the New England Patriots seem to be focusing on rebuilding. Led by executive vice president of player personnel Eliot Wolf and head coach Jerod Mayo, the Patriots are navigating through one of their toughest periods in recent history. The team finished the 2023 season with a disappointing 4-13 record and endured their worst scoring offense since 1992, averaging just 13.9 points per game.
This trade allows the Patriots to accumulate crucial draft capital, which Wolf and Mayo can use to construct a more competitive team in the coming years. The Patriots have already made significant moves, such as drafting North Carolina quarterback Drake Maye third overall in the 2024 NFL Draft and bringing in veteran Jacoby Brissett on a one-year deal to mentor Maye.
A New Chapter for Judon
For Judon, the transition to Atlanta marks an exciting new chapter in his career. Despite his 2023 season being cut short due to a torn lower bicep in Week 4, his track record shows a player capable of making an immediate and significant impact. Judon has already expressed his enthusiasm for his new team and city, sharing on his Instagram story his efforts to get acquainted with Atlanta and find a home close to Mercedes-Benz Stadium.
"The trade for Judon represents a hard-fought victory for Atlanta after striking out twice when trying to trade for pass-rush help within the past year," noted one industry analyst. Indeed, the Falcons had previously attempted to bolster their pass rush by trading for Montez Sweat before he was traded to the Chicago Bears and by trying to trade up in the draft to select UCLA's Laiatu Latu, who eventually went to the Indianapolis Colts at 15th overall. Additionally, the Falcons drafted Ruke Orhorhoro from Clemson in the second round and endured a setback as Washington edge rusher Bralen Trice tore his ACL in the preseason opener.
Hopeful Signs for Falcons Fans
The Falcons' acquisition of Judon, along with other strategic signings such as quarterback Kirk Cousins on a four-year deal worth $180 million, reflects the team's aggressive efforts to end their playoff drought dating back to 2016. As the Falcons look to rebuild their defense and overall team composition, the combination of veterans and promising draft picks offers a glimmer of hope for the organization's future.
With Judon's proven prowess on the field, the Falcons are poised to make strides in transforming their defensive unit. The emphasis now will be on integrating these new pieces effectively and creating a cohesive team capable of competing at a higher level in the seasons to come.