It isn’t a secret, but many believe the Chicago Bears still need another proven pass rusher before their defense can start thinking about elite territory. Montez Sweat is an outstanding player. The problem is nobody else on the defensive front is even close to his caliber. Maybe Gervon Dexter can reach that point, but nobody knows if that will happen. If the Bears want to make a run at the playoffs, they have to find somebody who’s proven he can consistently get to the quarterback. This is where Matthew Judon comes in.
The 31-year-old made four straight Pro Bowls from 2019 through 2022, establishing himself as one of the most disruptive pass rushers in the NFL. Last season, he had four sacks in four games before a torn bicep ended his year. Coming into this season, he has one year left on his contract. However, the New England Patriots haven’t been willing to engage him in extension talks. As a result, he’s refused to suit up for training camp. This led to a heated conversation with head coach Jared Mayo at the most recent practice.
Albert Breer of the MMQB admitted on Kap & J.Hood that Judon could be available via trade, and the Bears definitely have a shot.
He is an instant starter on any defense he plays for. He’s an excellent pass rusher with a bevy of moves at his disposal. Also, at 270 lbs, he has more than enough size to handle playing defensive end in Matt Eberflus’ defense. This would allow the Bears to use Jacob Martin and Austin Booker as rotational rushers and DeMarcus Walker as an interior guy. Everything would slide into place. The tricky part is what compensation the Patriots might seek and what kind of money Judon wants in any extension.
Given the contract, age, and injury issues, New England can’t hope for more than a 5th round pick in return. Matthew Judon turns 32 next month. A rough estimate suggests he’s looking for somewhere between DeMarcus Lawrence ($13.33 million) and Haason Reddick ($15 million) money. That would double what he’s projected to make this season. The Bears could give him a short extension with more guarantees, ensuring they don’t have to be tethered to him for too long in case age starts deteriorating his play.
Everything depends on how motivated GM Ryan Poles is to make a move.
