Jonathan Wiggs/The Boston Globe via Getty Images
The Atlanta Falcons are acquiring star forward Matthew Judon from the New England Patriots in exchange for a third-round pick, according to the Daily Mail. Ian Rapoport From NFL Network.
Judon, 31, missed organized team activities ahead of the 2023 season and was holding out for a stay with the team through the early days of training camp before the Patriots reworked his deal, increasing his guaranteed money from $2 million to $14 million.
However, he appeared in just four games last season due to injuries, though he did notch up four sacks in those games, bringing his career total to 66.5 sacks in 114 games.
Entering the final year of his contract, Godon was again looking for fresh money during the summer transfer window, although he initially indicated he would play out his contract.
“I got that, honestly,” he said. He told reporters“Again, for example, I signed a deal, my signature is on it, so I have to play to it. Do I want to? No. Do I think that’s my value? No. But again, that’s none of my business.”
But shortly after those comments, it appeared that Godon had decided to stop training for the second year in a row.
nbc sports boston @NBCSBoston
Giroud Mayo appears to have a few words with Mathieu Godon who will not be training today. Godon was seen leaving the pitch after their conversation 👀 pic.twitter.com/BJvP64tnpS
Mike Rice @Mike Rice
Day 5 of Patriots training camp: Will Matthew Judon hold up? … First full practice with pads and open holes in the running game … Penalties pile up before the snap … Jabrill Peppers did not complete practice … Josh Uche leaves after minor commotion with Chuka Okorafor. pic.twitter.com/fXI5zS9NRQ
Given his age and injuries last season, it was unclear if the Patriots would offer him any extension or new money. This time, they didn’t play well, sent him overseas, and now Judon and the Falcons will be left to discuss a potential new deal.
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