The Atlanta Falcons have made a significant addition to their roster by acquiring four-time Pro Bowler Matt Judon, aiming to bolster their defensive front. This strategic move marks a major step for a team that has struggled in recent seasons to apply consistent pressure on opposing quarterbacks. In the 2023 season, the Falcons ranked a disappointing 25th in the NFL in quarterback pressure rate with a mere 32.7%, and their sack total tied for 21st at 42.0.
Judon's Decision
Both the Atlanta Falcons and the Chicago Bears were in contention to acquire Judon, each offering a third-round pick to the New England Patriots. In a rare move, the Patriots allowed Judon to decide his next destination. Judon ultimately chose to join the Falcons over the Bears, a decision likely influenced by the current dynamics within their respective divisions. “He obviously chose the Falcons because they are in an NFC South division that seems to be very much up for grabs year-to-year while Chicago has some stiff competition in the NFC North with two of their division foes, the Detroit Lions and the Green Bay Packers, both winning at least one playoff game last season,” noted one published analysis.
Judon suffered a season-ending torn lower bicep injury in Week 4 of the 2023 season, but his performance from 2021 to 2022 showcased his value as a dominant pass rusher. During that period, Judon amassed an impressive 28.0 sacks, a tally tied for the third-most in the NFL. In 2022, he recorded 15.5 sacks, following a 2021 campaign where he notched 12.5 sacks for the Patriots. Over the past three seasons, Judon posted a notable quarterback pressure rate of 15.7%.
Falcons' Recent Struggles and Moves
The Falcons have not seen postseason action since 2016, and their recent attempts to strengthen their defense have met with mixed results. “Atlanta walked away with their prize this time after failing to do so, in the Montez Sweat trade sweepstakes, losing him to the Bears, and in their bid to trade up for UCLA edge rusher Laiatu Latu,” another report highlighted. The organization hopes that the addition of Judon will finally provide the defensive boost they've been seeking.
Complementing Judon on the defensive front, the Falcons selected Clemson defensive lineman Ruke Orhorhoro with their second-round pick in the 2024 NFL Draft, and Washington rookie edge rusher Bralen Trice in the third round. However, Trice is currently on injured reserve following an ACL tear sustained during the preseason opener, adding to the team's injury concerns.
Offensive Adjustments
On the offensive side, the Falcons have signed quarterback Kirk Cousins, who is currently recovering from a season-ending injury. Given the team's recent postseason drought, there is palpable excitement and optimism surrounding Cousins’ potential to lead a resurgent offense once he returns to full health.
The acquisition of Judon represents a calculated gamble by the Falcons, who are banking on his ability to return to elite form and provide the pass-rushing prowess that has eluded them. With an NFC South division that remains highly competitive and unpredictable, Judon's impact could prove pivotal in breaking the Falcons' playoff drought and positioning them as formidable contenders.
As the Falcons set their sights on the upcoming season, the integration of key additions like Judon and Cousins, alongside promising draft picks, reflects the franchise's aggressive approach to rebuilding and reestablishing themselves as a competitive force in the NFL. Only time will tell if these strategic moves yield the desired results on the field.