Matthew Judon contract situation takes a tumultuous turn
The Matthew Judon contract dispute in New England had at least been amicable, reasonable, understandable. On Monday, it suddenly became combustible. Judon appeared early at practice during Patriots training camp…
Jun 12, 2024; Foxborough, MA, USA; New England Patriots linebacker Matthew Judon (9) runs onto the practice field at minicamp at Gillette Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Eric Canha-USA TODAY Sports
Eric Canha-USA TODAY SportsThe Matthew Judon contract dispute in New England had at least been amicable, reasonable, understandable.
On Monday, it suddenly became combustible.
Judon appeared early at practice during Patriots training camp Monday in Foxboro, but not suited up at all, let alone in full pads like his teammates. Judon didn't appear to be acting like an extra coach, either. For most of the early warmups and stretching periods, Judon sat and watched. It's not unfair to describe it from afar as sulking behavior.
In a moment captured by the camera guys from NBC Sports Boston, Judon later had a conversation with Patriots head coach Jerod Mayo, then left the field. He eventually returned and talked to Patriots executive vice president of player personnel Eliot Wolf and director of player personnel Matt Groh, and this interaction was described as animated.
It was a sudden escalation of a contract situation that never seemed truly contentious until Monday's sideshow. Judon spoke openly with reporters about his contract after practice last week, and while clearly unsatisfied, he projected an air of understanding that the business side of football can be cold, and that the contract decision isn't really within his control.
Frustration appears to be boiling over with Judon. Perhaps that stems from his ultimate desire to stay in New England, and the realization that New England lacks desire to stay with him. Judon also said in his most recent press appearance that he doesn't want to be traded or play anywhere else for the rest of his career.
But if the Patriots aren't going to give him a new contract, Judon might have no choice but to look elsewhere. So, his contract situation will remain one of the top stories to watch in Foxboro, until the next step is taken.
He was handling the whole thing admirably and professionally, until Monday's theatrics. It'll be interesting to see how the team handles it from the other side going forward.
Matt Dolloff is a writer and digital content producer for 98.5 The Sports Hub. Read all of his articles here.
