With the NFL regular season coming up fast, teams are finalizing their rosters. However, there's still time for an aggressive team to shake up the league with a savvy trade. Here are the top remaining trade candidates who could be the difference between contention and disappointment for the right franchise.
Edge Rusher Matthew Judon
Since joining the New England Patriots in 2021, edge rusher Matthew Judon has been one of the league's most reliable and punishing pass rushers. Over his last 38 appearances, the former Baltimore Raven has compiled an amazing 32.0 sacks and 33 tackles for loss and earned a pair of Pro Bowls.
Unfortunately for the Patriots, Judon has recently expressed dissatisfaction with his contract for the second offseason in a row. The Patriots' struggles could be another team's gain; multiple teams have already inquired about trading for the four-time Pro Bowler.
Who should be interested?
Judon is set to turn 32 years old before the regular season and is coming off a significant injury that cost him 13 games in 2023. Any team that trades for him should do so with the understanding that he only has a few more valuable seasons left in him, and whatever extension he signs will have to reflect that. He should be available for a mid-round pick.
Judon could help any contender in need of a versatile, intelligent linebacker/pass rusher, but a reunion with the Ravens makes too much sense to ignore. The Ravens finished with a league-best 280 points allowed last year while relying heavily on veteran journeymen Jadeveon Clowney and Kyle Van Noy to man the edges; Clowney signed with the Carolina Panthers earlier this offseason, and Van Noy is 33 years old. Judon could pick up where he left off in the Ravens' pass rush rotation and help them make the most of their Super Bowl window.
Photo Credit: © Robert Deutsch-USA TODAY Sports
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