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Buffalo Bills are making a calculated late-season move as they continue to fine-tune their roster ahead of a crucial playoff push. On Friday afternoon, Buffalo announced its intention to bring in veteran edge rusher Matthew Judon, a four-time Pro Bowler whose experience and familiarity with the AFC East could prove valuable in the weeks ahead.
According to NFL insider Ian Rapoport, the Bills hosted Judon and are set to add him to their practice squad, signaling a low-risk move with potentially high upside.
A familiar name in the AFC East
Judon is no stranger to Bills fans. The veteran pass rusher has spent a significant portion of his career battling Buffalo within the AFC East, most notably during his productive stint with the New England Patriots. That divisional familiarity could ease his transition into Sean McDermott’s defensive system, even at this late stage of the season.
Originally selected in the fifth round of the NFL Draft by the Baltimore Ravens, Matthew Judon carved out a reputation as a consistent edge presence over five seasons under head coach John Harbaugh. He recorded at least five sacks in four consecutive years, establishing himself as a reliable pressure generator before hitting free agency.
Peak years with the Patriots
Judon’s career reached new heights after signing a three-year, $46 million deal with the Patriots. In his first season in Foxborough, he delivered 12.5 sacks, quickly becoming the focal point of New England’s pass rush. He followed that up with an even more impressive campaign, finishing with 15.5 sacks—tied for fourth-most in the league.
Those back-to-back seasons solidified Matthew Judon’s reputation as one of the league’s more dangerous edge defenders, particularly in cold-weather environments similar to Buffalo Bills’ late-season conditions.
Recent struggles, fresh opportunity
Since leaving New England, Judon’s production has dipped. In 2024, he joined the Atlanta Falcons and started all 17 games but failed to replicate his previous statistical output. This season, the 33-year-old suited up for another AFC East rival, the Miami Dolphins, where he appeared in 13 games without recording a sack.
Despite those numbers, Buffalo Bills appear focused on Judon’s experience rather than his recent box score impact. With postseason football often decided by depth, situational pressure, and veteran composure, Buffalo is betting that Judon still has something left to offer.
A calculated move for a Super Bowl push
By adding Matthew Judon to the practice squad, Buffalo retains roster flexibility while giving itself an experienced option should injuries or matchup needs arise. For a team with Super Bowl aspirations, such marginal gains can be decisive.
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