Patriots to face Matthew Judon twice after linebacker signs with AFC East team

During the 2025 season, the offensive line of the New England Patriots will face an old buddy a couple times.

According to NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero, former Patriots linebacker Matthew Judon inked a one-year contract worth up to $6 million with the Miami Dolphins on Monday.

Judon, who was nominated for two Pro Bowls in his three seasons in New England, has had a turbulent year.

Judon was involved in a public contract dispute with the Patriots during training camp prior to the 2024 season, which ultimately led to the organization trading the veteran to the Atlanta Falcons for a 2025 third-round pick. Judon recorded 32 sacks during his 38 games with New England from 2021–23.

In the third round, New England made many trades down from that Falcons pick (No. 77 overall). Ultimately, they used those trades to choose defensive end Bradyn Swinson (fifth round, No. 146 overall), offensive lineman Jared Wilson (third round, No. 95 overall), and a 2026 fourth-round pick.

Judon’s one season in Atlanta wasn’t very successful. Judon was held to just 5.5 sacks over 17 games with the Falcons, including just 1.5 sacks in his first 10 games, despite becoming one of the NFL’s more influential pass rushers.

According to Pro Football Focus’ Ryan Smith, Judon finished 118th out of 119 eligible edge rushes in the previous season using PFF’s grading scheme.

I don’t understand this one unless there is an injury that we aren’t yet aware of.The Dolphins excel at EDGE, and preseason play has been excellent for players like Grayson Murphy.Judon just turned 33#PhinsUp, and his PFF grade from the previous season was 43.0, ranking him 118th out of 119 eligible edge defenders.The link https://t.co/BfjwDE0fqV

Judon finally had to wait until the third week of preseason play to sign a one-year contract with Miami after being traded away from New England because he insisted on a larger salary.

The 33-year-old edge player is anticipated to join a Miami squad that may have a potent pass rusher in 2025, particularly if Jaelan Phillips and Bradley Chubb both go back to their former glory following serious injuries sustained in the previous few years.

Twice this coming season, Judon will try to make Drake Maye and the New England offensive line’s lives miserable. Week 2 (Sept. 14) will see New England battle Judon and the Dolphins in Miami. Week 18 will see New England play Miami once more in the regular-season finale.