The New England Patriots have been linked to a three-time Pro Bowler to improve their chances of winning a Super Bowl.
After last season, the New England Patriots knew that solving their pass-rushing woes had to be one of their top priorities.
So, the Patriots went out and added Harold Landry, K'Lavon Chaisson and Milton Williams in free agency, and the additions have certainly helped.
However, New England still ranks in the bottom half of the NFL with just 29 sacks, so the Pats could definitely use some reinforcments.
That's why Owen Crisafuli of NESN feels that the Patriots should aim for a reunion with edge rusher Matthew Judon — who was just released by the Miami Dolphins — in free agency.
"Judon could be the perfect answer to the problem. Sure, his stint in New England didn’t exactly come to a great end, but Judon has previously expressed an interest in returning to town," Crisafuli wrote. "And if the Patriots can generate more pressure on opposing quarterbacks, that could help their defense round into form before it’s too late."
Judon spent three seasons in New England between 2021 and 2023, and his first two years with the Pats also happened to be the two best campaigns of his career.
Matthew Judon. Credit: Jeff Romance-Imagn Images.The 33-year-old racked up 60 tackles and 12.5 sacks during his debut campaign in Foxborough and then followed that up by rattling off 60 tackles and 15.5 sacks in 2022.
Judon then suffered a bicep injury early on in 2023, which thwarted what likely would have been another terrific season for the four-time Pro Bowler considering he had already logged four sacks through four games.
The Pats released Judon shortly before the 2024 season began. He signed with the Atlanta Falcons, where he managed 41 tackles, 5.5 sacks and an interception. Judon then linked up with the Dolphins, but he totaled just 19 tackles without a sack in 13 games.
It's entirely possible that Judon does not have much left in the tank, but it couldn't hurt for the Patriots to give him a chance.
New England is 11-3 and is attempting to contend for a Super Bowl, so the Pats could use all the help they can get, especially at their weak points.
Perhaps Judon would feel rejuvenated to play on a playoff team, as well.
We'll see if the Patriots place a call to the veteran.