Father Time is undefeated, but the Buffalo Bills are hoping that a veteran pass-rusher has a little bit left in the tank for the team’s playoff push.
On Friday, Buffalo hosted Matthew Judon on a free-agent visit. According to multiple reports, the team intends to sign Judon to its practice squad.
Judon, 33, was recently released by the Miami Dolphins. Miami signed Judon in August to a one-year, $6 million deal to provide depth off the edge, but it has been a quiet season for the veteran. In 13 games, Judon recorded 19 total tackles (1 TFL), three quarterback hits and one pass-defensed.
Judon is just one year removed from a 5.5 sack season with the Atlanta Falcons. Before joining Atlanta, Judon played with the Baltimore Ravens (2016-2020) and New England Patriots (2021-2023). Judon would be named to the Pro Bowl in four consecutive seasons during his time in Baltimore and New England (2019-2022).
Buffalo is hoping that Judon will be able to turn back the clock like some other veterans signed by the team this season. Veterans like Jordan Poyer, Tre’Davious White and Shaq Thompson have significantly helped on defense this season. It’s too early to say if Judon can help, but the team is lacking pass-rushers.
The Bills’ defensive end depth has been tested as of late, with Buffalo needing rookie defensive tackle T.J. Sanders to play off the edge. Judon could get elevated off the practice squad in the final three weeks of the regular season and in the playoffs to serve as Buffalo’s defensive end No. 4 behind Joey Bosa, Greg Rousseau and A.J. Epenesa. In doing so, Buffalo will have a player who is more suited to provide consistent pressure off the edge, allowing Sanders to slide back to defensive tackle.
In his career, Judon has recorded 72 sacks, 177 quarterback hits, 95 tackles for loss and nine forced fumbles.
