Veteran edge rusher Matthew Judon is set to make his 49ers debut in Week 4 against Denver after San Francisco elevated him to help a defense hit hard by injuries.
Matthew Judon didn't have to wait long for his first chance in red and gold.
Less than a week after signing with the San Francisco 49ers' practice squad, the veteran edge rusher has been elevated to the active roster for Sunday's Week 4 matchup against the Denver Broncos at Levi's Stadium.
49ers head coach Kyle Shanahan said Saturday that Judon put together a solid week of practice and that he's hopeful the veteran is ready for the moment.
Injuries Stacking Up
San Francisco had little choice but to bring in help. The 49ers have ruled out three defensive linemen for Sunday: Nick Bosa (knee, calf), Mykel Williams (knee), and James Thompson Jr. (ankle).
With Bosa and Williams both out, the 49ers are without their top two edge defenders. Keion White (hamstring) and linebackers Dre Greenlaw (quadriceps) and Jaden Dugger (shoulder) are all questionable.
Judon saw an opening and took it. He has said the growing injury list in San Francisco made it an easy decision, since he could step in and contribute while the regulars get healthy.
The front office was clearly looking for someone like him. The 49ers worked out several veteran pass rushers, including Dawuane Smoot and Julian Okwara, before choosing Judon.
The adjustment should be smooth. Defensive coordinator Raheem Morris was his head coach in Atlanta in 2024, and Judon has a strong relationship with defensive line coach Kris Kocurek.
Why the 49ers Signed Judon
His résumé speaks for itself. Baltimore drafted him in the fifth round in 2016, and he became one of the most consistent edge rushers in the league.
He made four straight Pro Bowls from 2019 to 2022, and his best season came with New England in 2021, when he recorded 15.5 sacks.
Over 10 seasons and 145 games with the Ravens, Patriots, Falcons, Dolphins, and Bills, he has 72 sacks, 429 tackles, 95 tackles for loss, and nine forced fumbles.
The last two years haven't matched that peak. Judon had 5.5 sacks with Atlanta in 2024 and saw limited action in 2025 while splitting time between Miami and Buffalo.
Now 34, he isn't the every-down force he once was, but San Francisco doesn't need him to be.
The 49ers need a reliable veteran who can set the edge, win a few one-on-one matchups, and give a thin rotation a breather. Judon's physical style and his comfort running stunts up front fit that job.
Sunday is also an audition. Teams can only elevate a practice squad player a limited number of times before they have to commit to a roster spot.
There's no clear timeline for Bosa's return. If Judon shows he can still get after the quarterback, he could earn a longer stay in Santa Clara.
