Patriots Mathew Judon: ‘I Want to Retire Here’
FOXBORO — Four-time Pro Bowl linebacker Matthew Judon appears to be quite happy as a member of the New England Patriots.
In addition to being one of the Pats’ most fearsome defenders, the 30-year-old has also laid a strong foundation in the New England community, while even playfully moonlighting as the team’s pseudo-general manager.
In fact, Judon seems to like the region so much, he recently told Boston’s WBZ that he “loves playing for the Patriots” and hopes to retire with the organization.
“I don’t ever want to leave,” Judon told reporter Dan Roche while learning the art of glass blowing at Gather Glass in Providence, R.I. “I’m finding stuff like this and just making it home and trying to be more a part of the community, so I honestly never want to leave. That’s not my intent. Forever. I want to retire here. I’m very comfortable. I love it.”
Since his arrival in Foxboro during the 2021 offseason, Judon has proven that he possesses both the versatility and adaptability to have earned the spot as the team’s number one player on the edge. His on-field awareness routinely puts him in position to keep runs from reaching the corner on early downs, as well as providing speed and strength when rushing the quarterback. In his first year with the Pats, Judon amassed 60 tackles, one fumble recovery and 12.5 sacks. He eclipsed those totals in 2022 — earning a career-high 15.5 sacks, two forced fumbles (recovering one), while once again logging 60 total tackles. His performances earned him Pro Bowl selections in each of his two seasons with the Patriots.
With the start of the season fast approaching, Judon will again be called upon to play a crucial role on the Pats defense. Though he is not set to hit free agency until 2024, New England may choose to explore extension talks sooner rather than later — while also alleviating a bit of the $18.1 million of pressure his contract puts on their salary cap in 2023.
Until then, Judon remains squarely focused preparing for this season. With only hours remaining until their first training camp practice, the Pats’ top linebacker is set to place his complete attention on the gridiron with neither hesitation, nor distraction.
“When you come out there, just know that you’re there,” Judon said. “You’re not mentally on vacation anymore. You are on the field. You are aware. You are conscious of what’s being asked of you and what’s needed to be done.”
The Patriots are scheduled to take the practice fields adjacent to Gillette Stadium at 9:30 a.m. on Wednesday.
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