The Miami Dolphins made headlines Wednesday morning with a series of roster moves following their elimination from playoff contention - and one name in particular is sure to catch the attention of folks up in Foxborough: Matthew Judon.
The Dolphins released the veteran pass rusher after a quiet season in South Florida. Judon suited up for 13 games but managed just 19 total tackles, one pass deflection, and - surprisingly - zero sacks. For a guy known for his disruptive presence off the edge, those numbers don’t reflect the kind of impact Miami was hoping for when they brought him in.
But here’s where things get interesting. While Judon didn’t light it up in Miami, that doesn’t mean he’s out of gas. In fact, for a team like the Patriots, who are thin at edge rusher and still eyeing a postseason push, Judon could be exactly what the doctor ordered.
Let’s not forget what he did during his three-year run in New England. Judon was a force - 32 sacks in 39 games, routinely drawing double teams and anchoring the pass rush.
That kind of production doesn’t just disappear overnight. Even if he’s not the every-down menace he once was, there’s still value in bringing him back as a situational weapon.
Right now, the Patriots are leaning heavily on Harold Landry III and K’Lavon Chaisson, but beyond those two, the depth chart gets thin fast. And it’s showing.
Over the last couple of weeks, New England’s front seven has struggled to control the line of scrimmage. The absence of Milton Williams, who’s been sidelined with an ankle injury, hasn’t helped matters, and the Week 16 loss to Buffalo was a clear reminder that this defense needs reinforcements - fast.
That’s where Judon fits in. He knows the system.
He knows the building. And more importantly, he’s already proven he can thrive in Bill Belichick’s scheme.
While his last stint in Foxborough didn’t end on the highest note, Judon has previously expressed interest in a return. If both sides are willing, this could be a low-risk, high-upside reunion.
Of course, Judon will likely draw interest from multiple playoff contenders - assuming he clears waivers. But New England’s familiarity with him could be a key advantage in what’s shaping up to be a competitive market for veteran pass rush help.
The Patriots don’t need Judon to be the 12-sack guy he was a couple of years ago. They need someone who can give them 15-20 quality snaps a game, disrupt a few pockets, and help close out drives. If he can do that, his return could be a difference-maker down the stretch.
With the postseason still within reach, New England has to consider every option to shore up its defense. And bringing back a familiar face like Judon? That just might be the spark this unit needs.