After a frustrating performance from the Atlanta Falcons’ defense last season, the teamparted ways with veteran defensive tackleGrady Jarrett but signed veteran pass rusher Leonard Floyd to a one-year deal this offseason.
The addition of Floyd should help a Falcons’ defense that only registered 31 sacks, but fans hoped that Atlanta would make more moves in free agency, like re-signing veteran defender Matt Judon.
The Falcons acquired Judon in a trade from the New England Patriots last August as they tried to bolster their pass rush. The 32-year-old defender had 41 combined tackles, nine quarterback hits, seven tackles for loss, 5.5 sacks, five pass deflections, and an interception (one defensive touchdown).
It wasn’t an earth-shattering season by Judon, but for Atlanta fans, it was better than nothing, and they were hoping for a reunion between the two sides. However, Judon might be playing elsewhere, based on the team’s latest decision.
On Tuesday, the Falcons unveiled several new numbers and name changes for new players and other guys on the team. Judon’s number, No. 15, was given to veteran tight end Feleipe Franks.
Some other changes:
— Daniel Flick (@ByDanielFlick)April 22, 2025
- Kyle Pitts Sr. officially going with "Pitts Sr." on his name plate
- KhaDarel Hodge: 12 --> 4
- Carlos Washington Jr.: 28 --> 26
- Jovaughn Gwyn: 56 --> 52
Mike Ford (28) & Feleipe Franks (15) will wear the same number they did in their last Falcons stint.
According to Daniel Flick, Franks reportedly had the No. 15 in his last stint with the ball club. Many Falcons fans did not make the connection that was Judon’s old number. Instead, they’re saying that Franks will have to change that number depending on who Atlanta takes in the first round of the NFL draft.
The veteran tight end isn’t guaranteed to make the roster after signing a one-year deal in free agency, so it's a chance that the No. 15 could become available again. However, Falcons fans shouldn’t hold out hope for a reunion as the team could find their Judon replacement in the first round on Thursday night.
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