Matthew Judon Gives Wildly Blunt Reply to Patriots Contract Situation
By Jovan Alford
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The New England Patriots made a point this offseason to re-sign many of their players in free agency and or hand out contract extensions.
Heading into the training camp, the discussion around Foxborough was about defensive starters Davon Godchaux and Matthew Judon, who are both looking for extensions. The team reportedly wanted to get deals done by the start of camp, but that didn’t happen.
However, all players showed up to training camp, including Judon. The 31-year-old pass rusher is entering the final year of a four-year, $54 million deal that he signed with New England in 2021.
Judon spoke with reporters after Wednesday’s training camp practice and didn’t mince words about his contract situation.
The reporters asked Judon does he want to be traded, and the veteran responded with, “hell nah,” per Mike Giardi of the Boston Sports Journal. Judon was also asked about playing on his current deal.
The four-time Pro Bowler said, “I got to,” in regards to playing on his current contract, and added “no” but understands that he has to honor the deal he signed.
Will he play on his current deal? Judon says, "I got to." Does he want to? "No." Adds he signed the deal and has to honor it. https://t.co/sVzMCyhl10
— Mike Giardi (@MikeGiardi) July 24, 2024
The veteran linebacker clearly wants a new deal, but maybe the Patriots are hesitant to hand him a huge contract given his age and only playing in four games because of last season.
Before the 2023 season, Judon put together two outstanding seasons in New England. He had 53 quarterback hits, 28 tackles for loss, and 28 sacks. The Patriots would love to see Judon get back to a Pro Bowl level as they have a solid defense at all three levels.
However, one does wonder how long the Patriots will let this linger as they cannot go into Week 1 of the regular season with two players looking for new deals.
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