New England Patriots edge rusher Matthew Judon enters the season as one of the NFL Top 100 players in 2023. However, Judon reportedly would like New England to address his contract in light of skyrocketing NFL revenue and rising salaries.
Judon, a four-time Pro Bowl selection, has blossomed in Bill Belichick’s defense. After recording 54 tackles for loss and 34.5 sacks in 76 career games with the Baltimore Ravens, Judon is already approaching 60 combined sacks and tackles for loss in just two seasons with New England.
- Matthew Judon stats (2022): 28 QB hits, 15.5 sacks 14 tackles for loss
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However, the original four-year contract worth $56 million that Judon signed in March 2021 has become outdated. Salaries for the top pass rushers in the NFL are exploding, with New England’s top defender now ranked 20th in average annual salary.
According to Phil Perry of NBC Sports Boston, Judon is happy to maintain his “amicable relationship” with the Patriots but he does want the organization to adjust his contract.
- Matthew Judon contract: $11 million base salary in 2023, $16.107M cap hit in 2024
Judon, who has been a limited participant in training camp, told reporters on Friday that his usage in practice is planned and he’s not willing to discuss his contract with reporters.
“I’m definitely not going to talk about contracts with y’all. Y’all some snitches. I’m happy that I’m here, I’m happy that I’m a Patriot. Wherever that goes, it goes. The market changes every day.”
New England Patriots edge rusher Matthew Judon on his contract, limited participation in practices
New England does have the long-term cap space to appease Judon. According to OverTheCap.com, the Patriots have $15.522 million in cap space this year and $108.2 million of cap space in 2024. It means whether the team added new money onto his contract next season or raised his salary in 2023, it can afford to do so.
- Matthew Judon career stats: 156 quarterback hits, 82 tackles for loss, 62.5 sacks
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Fortunately for the Patriots, Judon has no interest in holding out or forcing a trade. New England’s history suggests a contract extension isn’t likely this summer, but the front office could adjust his contract to provide him with added incentives or an elevated salary for the upcoming season.