With NFL free agency moving at a snail’s pace and OTAs on the horizon, veterans like Matthew Judon could be on the waiting list to sign with a new squad.
The 32-year-old Judon is currently an unrestricted free agent after spending one year with the Falcons. The veteran pass rusher didn’t put up huge numbers with the Falcons, but managed to have 41 combined tackles, nine quarterback hits, seven tackles for loss, 5.5 sacks, five pass deflections, and an interception (returned for a defensive TD) in 17 games.
Judon’s performance in 2024 was a notable improvement from his last season with the New England Patriots in 2023, which ended abruptly by injury. Even though Judon’s best days might be behind him, he could still help a team looking for additional pass rushers.
Bears a Fit for Faclons Free Agent Matt Judon Before OTAs
One of those teams that comes to mind is the Chicago Bears. In free agency, the Bears made a concerted effort to sign ex-Falcons Drew Dalman and Grady Jarrett to bolster their offensive and defensive lines.
Dalman was signed to a three-year, $42 million contract, while Jarrett was inked to a three-year, $42.7 million deal after the Falcons surprisingly released him, which created $16.25 million in cap space.
Jarrett took a step back last season with the Falcons, but could help Judon find his way to the Windy City in the coming weeks.
Chicago signed Dayo Odeyingbo to a three-year, $48 million deal in free agency to help Montez Sweat on the other side of the defensive line. However, Odeyingbo had three sacks and 19 QB pressures last season with the Indianapolis Colts. For his career, the 25-year-old only has 16.5 sacks in 61 games.
Odeyingbo’s lack of production and Chicago’s depth not being the strongest at defensive end could open up a potential opportunity for Judon.
Last season, then-Falcons defensive coordinator Jimmy Lake asked Judon to drop back into coverage sometimes, which is not his strong suit.
However, if the ex-Falcons defender were to sign with the Bears, he wouldn’t have to worry about that under new defensive coordinator Dennis Allen. Allen’s defensive scheme is a base 4-3, which puts the pass rush under the microscope.
That could bode well for Judon, who wouldn’t be viewed as a starter but could be better in a backup/rotational role. On a one-year deal, Judon could boost his value and show that he still has juice left in the tank after struggling in the pass-rush department in Atlanta (