Earlier this week, the Patriots inked one of their first in-season contract extensions of the year, signing linebacker Jahlani Tavai to a new two-year deal. Could another move be in the works?

On Thursday morning, ESPN’s Field Yates reported the Patriots have restructured the contract of linebacker Matthew Judon. The details of the reworked deal were not immediately reported, but the move does create $2.2 million in cap space this year, while increasing Judon’s cap hit by $1 million in 2023 and 2024. No years were added to Judon’s contract.

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ESPN’s Mike Reiss followed the tweet up noting that the move “provides the Patriots cap space to get through the rest of the season,” before adding, “and potentially to strike a modest-type extension with others on the roster when considering future planning (e.g. Jahlani Tavai).”

The Patriots have a number of players who are in the final year of their deal who could be candidates for an such an extension. That group includes wide receiver Jakobi Meyers, defensive tackle Carl Davis, linebackers Raekwon McMillan and Mack Wilson, cornerback Jonathan Jones, and long snapper Joe Cardona. Keep in mind some of those players, mainly Meyers and Jones, would likely want to test the open market before committing to a new deal.

As for Judon, his restructure comes in the middle of a career year. The 30-year-old leads the league with 13 sacks, and is currently the top vote getter among AFC outside linebackers for the Pro Bowl. The Patriots originally signed Judon to a four-year, $56 million contract during their free agency spending spree in March 2021.

Matthew Judon’s career stats

Alex Barth is a writer and digital producer for 985TheSportsHub.com. Any opinions expressed do not necessarily reflect those of 98.5 The Sports Hub, Beasley Media Group, or any subsidiaries. Thoughts? Comments? Questions? Looking for a podcast guest? Let him know on Twitter @RealAlexBarth or via email at abarth@985TheSportsHub.com.