In a move that sent ripples through the NFL landscape, the Miami Dolphins made some bold roster decisions on Wednesday, including parting ways with veteran edge rusher Matt Judon. At 33 years old, Judon’s release comes as no surprise for a Dolphins team sitting at 6-8 and clearly eyeing a rebuild for the 2026 season. Judon, who has been a limited contributor this year, now enters the free agent market—or potentially the waiver wire—where he could attract interest from playoff contenders. But one team in particular should be at the forefront of any reunion talks: the New England Patriots.
Judon’s history with the Patriots is a tale of highs and lows, but the highs were nothing short of explosive. Signed as a free agent in 2021 after five seasons with the Baltimore Ravens, Judon quickly became a cornerstone of New England’s defense. That year, he earned his first Pro Bowl nod with 12.5 sacks, 60 tackles, and 25 quarterback hits—numbers that showcased his relentless pass-rushing ability and disruptive presence on the edge.
The following season in 2022 was even more dominant. Judon racked up 15.5 sacks, another 60 tackles, and 28 quarterback hits, securing a second straight Pro Bowl selection and even garnering votes for Defensive Player of the Year (DPOY). Over those two electric campaigns in Foxboro, Judon amassed a staggering 28 sacks, transforming the Patriots’ front seven into a formidable unit and reminding the league why he was one of the most feared edge rushers in his prime.
However, Judon’s tenure in New England didn’t end on the best terms. Traded to the Atlanta Falcons ahead of the 2024 season in exchange for a third-round pick—a deal that surprised many NFL executives due to its value—the move was largely business-driven. Reports from insiders, including NBC Sports Boston’s Phil Perry, highlighted underlying tensions within the organization. Judon clashed with some members of the front office and coaching staff, leading to a messy divorce.
Fast-forward to 2025, and the NFL is a different place for both Judon and the Patriots. After a stint with the Falcons and then the Dolphins, Judon’s production has dipped significantly. According to Pro Football Focus (PFF), he’s managed just 10 pressures and zero sacks across 151 pass-rush snaps this season—a far cry from his Pro Bowl form. In 2024, he fared slightly better with 5.5 sacks, 41 tackles, and 9 quarterback hits, but injuries and inconsistent play have relegated him to more of a rotational role. At this stage, Judon’s value lies in his veteran savvy and leadership rather than elite, every-down production. Any team signing him would be banking on his experience to bolster a depth chart, particularly in a playoff push.
Enter the New England Patriots, now thriving at 11-3 under new head coach Mike Vrabel. The organization has undergone a complete overhaul since Judon’s departure. Vrabel, known for his defensive-minded approach from his time with the Tennessee Titans, has assembled a fresh coaching staff and instilled a culture of grit and accountability. As Darren Hartwell of NBC Sports Boston recently noted, “The decision to trade Judon was mostly business-related—many NFL execs were shocked the Patriots got a third-rounder for him, per Patriots insider Phil Perry—and it seems there were some interpersonal conflicts within the organization.”
But with so much turnover in Foxboro, those old grudges may be water under the bridge. Hartwell added, “Since the Judon trade, there’s been a ton of personnel changes, with head coach Mike Vrabel bringing in an almost entirely new staff. So, perhaps they view this veteran pass rusher a bit differently now.” A short-term deal through the end of the year could minimize risks, allowing Judon to chase the one accolade missing from his resume: a Super Bowl ring.
For the Patriots, bringing back Judon makes strategic sense. Their defense is already stout, but adding a proven disruptor—even in a limited capacity—could provide the extra edge needed for a deep playoff run. Judon knows the system, the fans, and the high-stakes environment of New England football. He’s tasted success here, and at 33, he’s likely motivated to end his career on a high note rather than fading into obscurity.
Of course, expectations should be tempered. Judon won’t replicate his 2021-2022 dominance, but his 2024 stats show he’s still capable of contributing meaningfully. In a rotational role, he could mentor younger pass rushers, provide situational pressure, and bring that intangible fire to a team eyeing championship glory.
The stage is set for a chilling comeback—the prodigal son returning to the place where he once thrived. With the Patriots positioned as legitimate contenders, Judon’s potential reunion isn’t just a feel-good story; it’s a calculated move that could propel New England toward Super Bowl aspirations. As the waiver wire buzz intensifies, all eyes are on Foxboro. Will Matt Judon don the Patriot blue once more? The NFL world waits with bated breath.