The New England Patriots know they have a special player in linebacker Matthew Judon, and any return to prominence will undoubtedly need his full participation.
However, Judon is entering the final year of his contract and will only make $6.5 million in 2024.
A lot of money, to be sure, but Judon has clearly outplayed his current deal in every measurable way and wants to be compensated for his production.
FOX Sports’ Henry McKenna reported, citing a source close to the situation, that the Patriots have made a contract offer to their defensive star.
McKenna added that the two sides are apparently far from a resolution on the standoff.
Matthew Judon has asked for a new contract and the Patriots have made an offer, according to a source close to the situation. But they are not currently close to agreeing to a new deal.
He’s on the final year of his contract and is set to make just $6.5 million in 2024.
— Henry McKenna (@henrycmckenna) July 9, 2024
It is believed the Patriots attempted to come to terms with Judon before the team heads to training camp, which may be a promising development.
The defender’s production began with a bang after his arrival prior to the 2021 season, and he heralded his new fans with 12.5 sacks, 60 tackles and a fumble recovery from his edge position.
That incredibly high bar was surpassed in 2022 with 15.5 sacks registered and a pair of forced fumbles to complement another 60 tackles.
Unfortunately for the Pats, Judon suffered a devastating biceps injury in Week 4 of 2023 and missed the remainder of the season.
He had already tallied four sacks and a safety, and New England’s pass rush virtually disappeared with Judon out of the lineup.
Now, training camp is just two weeks away, and the team moved to bring a happy Judon into the fold.
There is no word on a response from his camp, but the sooner a deal gets done, the quicker the new coaching staff can breathe easier.
