New England Patriots: 5 players blazing the way into 2021 NFL season

Matt Judon, New England Patriots new sack man

Matt Judon is the best player you maybe have never heard of. He’s been a productive performer for the Ravens since entering the league in 2016.

Over those first five years, Judon racked up 34.5 sacks. With my basic math skills that seems to add up to about 7 sacks per season.

That total would lead the Patriots over the same timeframe, I am certain. So that means the Patriots have secured a better pass rusher than they have had for years. That’s a good thing.

In his best season in 2019 before Covid-19, Judon had his best season. He racked up 9.5 sacks, 33 quarterback hits, and 14 tackles for loss.

If Judon can even come close to those numbers, the Patriots defense will a force to be reckoned with. And, as was noted above, in the linebacker/edge corps, he will have lots of help.

Adding to the force will be the Patriots’ top sack guy in 2020, Chase Winovich with 5.5 sacks. He has a lot more to offer.

Adding to the group is a second-year man from Michigan, Josh Uche, another edge rusher who flashed in 2020.

Even if just one or two of the edge players noted emerge or return to form in addition to Judon, it’s going to be a very interesting time for any Patriots opponent next season.

Judon has been a Pro Bowler the past two seasons. That’s a good place to begin but he has even more potential, e.g. to emerge as a possible All-Pro.

Does that suggest that big things are expected from the former Raven in red, white, blue, and silver? It absolutely does. It’s not hoped for, it’s expected.