Matthew judon has perhaps the clearest indication that he is fit and ready for a new era of new england patriots football in less than 280 words. Judon resurfaced as a comedian with a saturday post in which he reaffirmed his propensity to recruit high-profile castaways to foxborough. His new endeavor is one of his most ambitious yet: he’s not only after a former baltimore ravens teammate, but the target in question hasn’t even been fully removed from the roster.
According to reports, the ravens could break up with three-time pro bowler marlon humphrey, who rose to national prominence alongside judon over three years in charm city. Judon took note of a ravens fan account on x, citing a usa today article that baltimore could save almost $12 million in cap space if they let humphrey go, which served as the perfect excuse to play college coach. Judon said, “i like this move.” “i think (on) the patriots 44 is open,” he says.
Humphrey has repped a number that is now available in new england, with former running back don calhoun (1975-81) being his most popular previous wearer. It was out of commission last season, and it was last worn by reserve receiver/specialist raleigh webb. The patriots’ coming season will be marked by judon’s return from a lower bicep injury, which ate away at all but four games of his 2023 career. The fact that he’s up to his old pixelated tricks, on the other hand, is perhaps one of the most visible signs yet that the lauded pass rusher is back to his old self.
Foxborough has a tradition of attracting name-brand talent as one of the primary faces of modern patriots football. Although he has yet to make any major acquisitions, his x list includes pitches to names like odell beckham jr., deandre hopkins, and bobby wagner. Though judon is only a memory in baltimore, he seems to have left a lasting impression on humphrey. Baltimore finished no worse than 12th in total defense in three seasons (2017-19), leading the league in 2018. According to aaron kasinitz of pennlive.com, humphrey said of judon in 2021, “he has meant a lot to this defense.” “you’re always going to see a guy running full speed and putting in a lot of energy when you see a game.”