The AFC East began Friday with four general managers and will end the day with only three. ESPN's Adam Schefter is reporting that the Miami Dolphins and GM Chris Grier have "mutually agreed to part ways" amid the franchise's 2-7 start to the season, which more or less proves that the New England Patriots' divisional rivals will be open for business ahead of Tuesday's trade deadline.
GM firings typically open the door for a fire sale, and the Dolphins' potentially selling off expiring contracts will give Grier's replacement plenty of picks to play with. Although divisional trades aren't the norm, the Patriots would be wise to take advantage of the rival franchise's situation, especially since other teams will be quickly lining up to trade for any notable pieces.
With that in mind, New England must immediately pounce on the chance to reunite with this familiar face.
Patriots Must Reunite with Matthew Judon After Dolphins Fire Chris Grier
The Patriots' defense could use some help on the edge as Harold Landry and K’Lavon Chaisson have been asked to go beyond their expected duties. That's why executive vice president of player personnel Eliot Wolf should try to reunite with Miami linebacker and ex-Pat Matthew Judon ahead of Tuesday's trade deadline.
Patriots fans will remember Judon from spending three seasons (2021-23) in New England, which included two of his four Pro Bowl appearances and a ninth-place finish in 2022 Defensive Player of the Year voting. The former Grand Valley State defender was productive throughout that time, generating 84 solo tackles, 32.0 sacks, four defended passes, and a pair of forced fumbles. His tenure ended when he was traded to the Atlanta Falcons for a 2025 third-round pick in August 2024.
After an underwhelming season with the Falcons, Judon joined the Dolphins on a one-year contract this summer. Unfortunately, the change in scenery hasn't helped the former Patriot, as he's recorded only six solo tackles in eight games without a start. His 52.7 overall grade on Pro Football Focus also ranks 104th among 119 players at his position.
In other words, Judon could use a fresh start, and the Patriots — a familiar franchise for him — can give it to him. Head coach Mike Vrabel has created an environment that's a lot more positive than the one Judon experienced during his time in New England, and it wouldn't be unfathomable to imagine how joining the mix will help get the 33-year-old vet back on track.
Throw in the fact that Judon is on a cheap ($3 million) expiring contract, and the Patriots have every reason to roll the dice on a trade.
Even if he doesn't completely ball out, trading for Judon would help make Chaisson and Landry's lives easier. That alone makes a trade worth it for the Patriots, especially if it keeps the duo fresh come playoff time.