Falcons Announce the Official Return of Matthew Judon
In a move that has sent shockwaves through the NFL, the Atlanta Falcons have officially announced the return of standout linebacker Matthew Judon. After months of speculation, negotiations, and anticipation, Judon’s return to the team has been confirmed, and his re-signing promises to reshape the Falcons’ defense for the 2024 season and beyond.
Matthew Judon, a veteran linebacker known for his relentless pass rush, exceptional run-stopping ability, and overall versatility, has been one of the league’s top defensive players since entering the NFL in 2016. Originally drafted by the Baltimore Ravens, Judon quickly made a name for himself with his high motor and penchant for making game-changing plays. He was acquired by the Falcons in 2023 in a bold move to bolster their defense, and his performance last season proved why he is one of the best edge rushers in the league today.
The announcement of Judon’s return to Atlanta was met with jubilation from Falcons fans and coaches alike. His leadership, presence on the field, and ability to disrupt opposing offenses have been invaluable, and his signing marks a crucial step in the franchise’s pursuit of a return to playoff contention.
The Falcons’ defense in 2023 showed significant improvement under head coach Arthur Smith and defensive coordinator Ryan Nielsen, but the unit still lacked a consistent, game-changing pass rusher. In the NFL, where the competition is fierce and every game is a battle of inches, having a player like Judon on the field is a difference-maker. His ability to pressure quarterbacks and set the tone for the defensive line is unparalleled, and his return gives the Falcons one of the most feared front-seven combinations in the league.
**Key Benefits of Judon’s Return:**
1. **Elite Pass Rush:** Judon has recorded double-digit sacks in multiple seasons and has the ability to dominate on passing downs. With an arsenal of pass-rushing moves, including a lightning-quick first step and powerful bull rush, he is a constant threat to opposing quarterbacks. His presence forces opposing offenses to allocate more resources to stopping him, which opens up opportunities for his teammates to make plays.
2. **Run Defense:** In addition to his pass-rushing prowess, Judon is a stout run defender. He has the strength to shed blockers and the awareness to read plays before they develop. This ability to be a two-way player—contributing in both the passing and running games—makes him a rare commodity in today’s NFL.
3. **Leadership:** Judon has earned a reputation not just as a top-tier athlete, but also as a leader in the locker room. He brings a professional approach to his work and instills a sense of accountability among his teammates. The Falcons will rely on his veteran leadership to set the tone for a defense that is still in the process of developing young talent and growing into a cohesive unit.
4. **Flexibility and Scheme Versatility:** Ryan Nielsen’s defensive system is known for being multiple and flexible, allowing players to line up in various spots and disguise coverages and rushes. Judon’s ability to rush from multiple positions (outside linebacker, defensive end) gives Nielsen the freedom to use him in different ways to confuse opposing offenses and create mismatches.
Matthew Judon was drafted by the Baltimore Ravens in the fifth round of the 2016 NFL Draft out of Grand Valley State University. His combination of size, athleticism, and motor made him a sleeper pick who quickly turned into one of the top edge rushers in the NFL. Over the course of his career in Baltimore, Judon consistently ranked among the league leaders in sacks, tackles for loss, and pressures. He was a key piece of the Ravens’ defense, contributing to their playoff runs and earning multiple Pro Bowl selections.
However, in 2022, Judon decided to sign with the Atlanta Falcons in free agency, leaving the Ravens after six successful seasons. The Falcons, under the leadership of head coach Arthur Smith, were looking to build a defense capable of competing in the NFC South and beyond, and Judon was seen as a critical part of that plan. His first season in Atlanta was marked by an immediate impact as he recorded 12 sacks, helping the Falcons’ defense become one of the most feared units in the league.
Although 2023 saw some growing pains as the Falcons continued to develop and gel as a team, Judon’s individual success was undeniable. His ability to consistently disrupt opposing quarterbacks and his leadership in the locker room were seen as key factors in Atlanta’s defensive improvement.
The decision to bring Judon back for another season wasn’t made lightly, but it was one that the Falcons front office knew was essential to maintaining the momentum built in 2023. In an era where teams are prioritizing explosive offenses, it’s easy to overlook the importance of having a dominant defense. However, the Falcons recognize that to compete at the highest level, they need to stop teams from putting up big points, and Judon gives them that edge.
The Falcons’ front office, led by general manager Terry Fontenot, was keenly aware of the need to maintain continuity on defense. Judon’s familiarity with the defensive scheme, his bond with his teammates, and his playmaking ability all factored into the decision to re-sign him. The team is also looking to continue its momentum in the NFC South, where division titles and playoff spots are up for grabs.
Another key reason for re-signing Judon was his ability to mentor the younger players on the roster. The Falcons have a number of young defensive players, including second-year linebacker Troy Andersen and defensive end Arnold Ebiketie, who are still developing. Judon’s leadership and experience can help guide these players, showing them how to prepare for games, study film, and approach practice with a professional mindset.
Ryan Nielsen’s defensive philosophy is one built on versatility and adaptability. After taking over as the Falcons’ defensive coordinator in 2023, Nielsen emphasized the importance of putting pressure on quarterbacks, stopping the run, and creating turnovers. Judon fits perfectly into this system due to his all-around skill set. His ability to rush the passer from different alignments and his proficiency in defending the run make him a centerpiece of Nielsen’s scheme.
In particular, Nielsen has emphasized a focus on chaos and unpredictability. The Falcons’ defense often employs a variety of stunts and blitzes to create confusion and make life difficult for opposing offenses. With Judon on the field, the Falcons are able to execute these schemes with confidence, knowing that Judon can win one-on-one matchups and disrupt plays even when the offense is trying to neutralize his presence.
Nielsen also values having defensive players who can be utilized in a multitude of ways, and Judon’s versatility allows him to drop into coverage or rush the passer from different spots on the field. His football IQ, paired with his natural athleticism, makes him a perfect fit for a system that thrives on dynamic, multidimensional players.
As the Falcons move into the 2024 season, Judon’s return has raised expectations for the defense. With a potential Super Bowl-caliber offense already in place, led by young quarterback Desmond Ridder and dynamic weapons like running back Bijan Robinson and wide receiver Drake London, the Falcons now have a defense capable of competing with the league’s best. Judon’s ability to pressure the quarterback and make plays behind the line of scrimmage is crucial for a team looking to make a deep playoff run.
The NFC South has become an increasingly competitive division, with the New Orleans Saints, Tampa Bay Buccaneers, and Carolina Panthers all making strides to improve. The Falcons will need to rely on their defense to keep pace with high-powered offenses in the division, and Judon will be a key factor in that success.
In 2024, Judon is expected to continue being one of the league’s top pass rushers. His pursuit of opposing quarterbacks will help elevate the rest of the defensive unit, forcing turnovers and making life difficult for opposing offenses. With a season under his belt in Nielsen’s system, Judon is likely to continue evolving as a player, learning how to take advantage of the defense’s other strengths while continuing to be a dominant force in his own right.
Matthew Judon’s return to the Atlanta Falcons is a monumental moment in the franchise’s ongoing rebuild. The team is building something special, and Judon’s leadership and playmaking ability will be a huge part of their future success. As the Falcons continue to improve and aim for the playoffs, Judon will be at the heart of the defense, helping guide the team toward its ultimate goal of a Super Bowl championship.
For fans, the return of Judon represents more than just a re-signing—it’s a signal that the Falcons are serious about building a championship-caliber roster. Judon’s commitment to the team, combined with his elite talent, gives the Falcons a legitimate chance to compete with the league’s top teams. And for the Falcons themselves, it’s the assurance they need that their defense will continue to grow stronger, as Judon leads the charge in a new chapter of Atlanta football.
As we look forward to the 2024 season, one thing is clear: the Falcons’ defense just got a whole lot stronger. And with Matthew Judon back in the fold, the team has the pieces in place to make a serious run at the top of the NFC. The Falcons are primed for success, and Judon is at the center of it all.
