Matthew Judon Joins Atlanta Falcons After Trade Talks with Bears Fall Through
- Hard Knocks showcased why the Chicago Bears did not trade for Matthew Judon.
- Matthew Judon is now a player for the Atlanta Falcons instead of the Bears.
- The decision not to trade for Judon was highlighted in the show, revealing key insights.
FOXBORO – Pro Bowl edge rusher Matthew Judon is set to join the Atlanta Falcons for the upcoming season after the New England Patriots traded him for a 2025 third-round pick. The Chicago Bears were also in pursuit of Judon, but their interest waned following details revealed in Tuesday night's episode of Hard Knocks. The Bears had proposed a similar draft pick compensation but required Judon to sign a contract extension prior to finalizing the trade. Chicago General Manager Ryan Poles expressed concerns about acquiring a player without a secured contract, stating, "I don't want to get the club in a position where we have a player that's here, we've given up a draft pick, and we haven't had a resolution on a contract." Ultimately, Judon declined to sign an extension with the Bears, leading to his trade to Atlanta instead. As it stands, Judon will play the 2024 season with the Falcons on a $6.5 million contract, after which he will enter unrestricted free agency. Despite his recent bicep injury that limited him to just four games last season, the Bears maintained confidence in Judon's potential impact on their defense. Poles acknowledged the risk associated with Judon's age and injury history but believed in his ability to perform at a high level. The Falcons have yet to negotiate an extension with Judon, leaving his long-term future uncertain as he embarks on this new chapter in Atlanta.