Spotlight on Judon

This season saw plenty of new faces welcomed into Patriots Nation, and one of the most successful and possibly the one most fans would vote as MVP so far, is Matthew Judon.

Drafted in 2016 by the Baltimore Ravens, Judon is possibly on track to have one of his best years as a player. In 2017, his statistically best year overall, Judon ranked 6th on PFF with 8 sacks, but in 2019 he topped his sack amount by another 1.5. So far this season he has put up 22 solo tackles, and is already at 11.5 sacks with a new team. That’s something that people shouldn’t take too lightly, being integrated into a new system can affect a player significantly. It’s a completely different player position, but take for example Jonnu Smith, a great tight end but struggling a little to really get going.

Not only is Judon putting out great stats, he is distinguishing himself as one of the team. His personality and character shines during media meetings and he isn’t shy to express himself fully – I refer your attention to the great mac and cheese Thanksgiving storm of 2021.

But seriously, how the Patriots plucked this gem stone from the clutches of the Ravens is beyond me. Although I know sensible people will say money, and that’s fair, he still seems to be one of the those players that you shuffle some cash around to keep. 

But let’s not misunderstand me here folks, I am not complaining! The confidence this 6 foot 3, 29 year old, edge-defending linebacker, Mr Redsleeves, gives this Patriots defense is fantabulous (yes that is a word, I say so).

This guy is pretty unstoppable. In fact, the only way to stop him is by a penalty-risking hold, which offensive lines have had to do, many, many times, and of those many times, officials have not called very many penalties… but now I’m just grumbling. 

Either way, I think all of Patriots Nation are in it for the long haul, I see red sleeves all over baby!

Go Pats!