Matthew Judon Released by Dolphins: What’s Next for the Four-Time Pro Bowler?
Matthew Judon’s time in Miami has come to a quiet end. The Dolphins released the veteran linebacker on Wednesday, just four months after signing him to a one-year, $6 million deal. Now 33 years old and with four Pro Bowl nods to his name, Judon is once again a free agent-and the timing of this move could be more strategic than it seems at first glance.
Let’s unpack what this means for Judon, the Dolphins, and potentially, a few playoff contenders looking to bolster their pass rush down the stretch.
A Quiet Exit in Miami
Judon’s stint in South Beach was brief and, frankly, underwhelming from a production standpoint. He didn’t register a sack during his time with the Dolphins, and while he still brought veteran leadership and experience to the locker room, the on-field impact wasn’t there. That’s a far cry from the disruptive force he was just a few seasons ago.
In 2022, Judon was a game-wrecker, racking up a career-high 15.5 sacks with the Patriots. But since then, his numbers have steadily declined-just 4 sacks in 2023, and 5.5 with the Falcons in 2024.
It’s clear the burst that once made him a nightmare for opposing quarterbacks has dulled. Still, there’s reason to believe he’s not done just yet.
The Playoff Picture: A Door Opens?
Here’s where things get interesting. With Miami officially eliminated from playoff contention at 6-8, the Dolphins may have done Judon a solid.
Releasing him now gives him the freedom to join a playoff-bound team in need of experienced depth at linebacker. That’s not just a nice gesture-it could be a win-win.
Teams like the Steelers, Patriots, and Ravens are all still in the postseason hunt and could use a savvy veteran who knows how to prepare for big games. Pittsburgh, in particular, has been dealing with injuries to key pass rushers, including T.J.
Watt. If they’re looking for a plug-and-play option with playoff experience, Judon checks a lot of boxes.
Back to Where It All Began?
Naturally, fans have already begun weighing in with their own takes. Some are ready to close the book on Judon’s career, while others are calling for a homecoming-whether that’s back to the Falcons, where he played last season, or to Baltimore, where he spent his first five years and earned his first two Pro Bowl selections.
“Who says you can’t go home?” one fan posted, alongside a photo of Judon in Ravens purple.
It’s a fair question. Judon’s best years came in Baltimore, and with the Ravens eyeing a deep playoff run, adding a familiar face with postseason chops could make sense-if the fit is right.
What’s Left in the Tank?
Judon turned 33 in August, and while the production has dipped, his football IQ and locker room presence still hold value. He’s not the edge-rushing terror he once was, but that doesn’t mean he can’t contribute in the right role. Think situational pass rusher, veteran mentor, or even just a steadying presence on a young defense.
This is a player who’s been through the grind-10 years in the league, three Pro Bowl seasons in New England, one in Atlanta, and a career that started as a standout at Division II Grand Valley State, where he was a First-Team All-American. He’s also a family man, one of 10 siblings, with three kids of his own. The perspective and professionalism he brings to a locker room is something you can’t teach.
And of course, there’s the red sleeve-Judon’s signature look, worn (as he once said) so his mom wouldn’t notice if he was bleeding. That kind of personality, that kind of story-it resonates with teammates.
The Bottom Line
Judon may not be the player he once was, but he’s still a player who can help the right team. The Dolphins, out of the playoff picture, likely saw this as a chance to let him chase one more shot at a ring. Whether it’s Pittsburgh, New England, Baltimore, or another contender, don’t be surprised if Judon lands somewhere soon.
He’s not done yet. Not completely. And in December, with the playoffs looming, sometimes all a team needs is one more veteran presence to tip the scales.