The Detroit Lions have made significant improvements on defense recently, but one issue remains — depth at edge rusher.
After parting ways with Za’Darius Smith earlier this offseason, Detroit is once again leaning heavily on Aidan Hutchinson. While Hutchinson has emerged as one of the NFL’s elite pass rushers, he can’t shoulder the burden alone. And with the NFL Draft still weeks away, talk is picking up about a veteran option already on the market: Matthew Judon.
Let’s be honest — Judon isn’t the same player who posted double-digit sacks in consecutive seasons not long ago. But what he still brings is veteran presence, grit, and leadership — all valuable traits for Detroit’s rising defense.
Now 31, Judon had a quieter 2024 season with the Atlanta Falcons, notching 5.5 sacks and 25 quarterback pressures across 17 games. While those stats may not jump off the page, they don’t paint the full picture. Coming off an injury-filled 2023, he still managed to suit up every week in 2024.
Is a bounce-back season possible in 2025? Lining up opposite Hutchinson could be the exact spark he needs to tap back into his Pro Bowl form.
What makes a potential Judon signing even more appealing is the low financial commitment.
Spotrac projects his market value at a two-year, $8.4 million deal — just $4.2 million annually for a four-time Pro Bowler. That’s a bargain in today’s pass rush market, especially for a contender trying to preserve long-term cap space.
This wouldn’t be about signing a game-wrecking superstar. It’s about adding a smart veteran who can support Hutchinson, contribute key snaps, and deliver when it counts — particularly in the postseason.
Judon’s track record speaks volumes, and if Brad Holmes wants to keep Detroit trending upward, this low-risk, high-reward move could be exactly what they need.
So, Lions faithful — would you like to see Matthew Judon wearing Honolulu blue this season?