The Miami Dolphins released veteran edge rusher Matthew Judon after a quiet 2025. The move has ignited discussion about a possible New England Patriots.
Matt Judon, the four-time Pro Bowler and former standout with the New England Patriots, has officially been released by the Miami Dolphins, a move that immediately generated buzz about a potential reunion with his old team.
The Dolphins’ decision caps a disappointing 2025 campaign for the 33-year-old edge rusher and creates an intriguing veteran option for playoff contenders in need of pass-rush help.
Below, here’s the latest on Judon’s release and the realistic angles for a Patriots return.
Sources: #Dolphins are releasing pass rusher Matthew Judon. He will go on waivers. pic.twitter.com/XQfzjyWlLH
— Jordan Schultz (@Schultz_Report) December 17, 2025
Judon’s Release Comes After Underwhelming 2025 Season
According to multiple reports, including NFL Network insider Mike Garafolo, the Dolphins released Judon this week after a season in Miami in which he registered zero sacks in 13 games and largely failed to impact the pass rush.
Judon signed a one-year deal with Miami in August 2025, hoping to provide veteran leadership and pressure on opposing quarterbacks. He was a situational contributor but never regained the high level of play he displayed earlier in his career.
NFL clubs will now have 24 hours to claim him off waivers; if he clears, Judon becomes a free agent.
His salary for the season was modest by edge-rusher standards, which could make him appealing to contenders looking for affordable help on defense.
Patriots Reunion Talk: Context and History
Judon is perhaps best known to many fans for his three seasons with the New England Patriots from 2021–23, during which he compiled 32 sacks in 38 games and earned multiple Pro Bowl nods.
That production, especially the 15.5 sacks in 2022, made him one of the most feared edge rushers in the NFL during his Patriots tenure. His familiarity with New England’s organization fuels reunion talk whenever he becomes available.
However, his exit from New England was not entirely smooth. Judon and the Patriots had a prolonged contract dispute in 2024, which culminated in New England trading him to the Atlanta Falcons for a 2025 third-round pick.
That episode included on-field disagreements and public frustrations before the trade was finalized.
After one season with the Falcons, Judon signed with Miami. Given how his Patriots departure unfolded, his return is not a slam-dunk, even if the current roster could use pass-rush help.
Why a Patriots Reunion Might Make Sense
Several commentators argue there is strategic logic in reuniting Judon with the Patriots:
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Familiarity with the system: He has known New England’s defensive philosophy for three seasons.
With the Pats 4-man rush being so bad, I’d entertain signing ANY vet pass rusher that will only cost you pennies over the final three weeks.
That includes Matthew Judon. He’s VERY likely washed. Who cares? There’d be zero risk. Desperate times…Ya know.
— Nick Cattles (@NickCRadio) December 17, 2025
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Existing chemistry: He previously teamed effectively with Patriots personnel and coaches, accelerating onboarding if he signs midseason.
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Affordable depth: On a cheap, incentive-heavy deal, his veteran presence could help bolster a pass rush that has struggled to generate consistent pressure.
Why a Patriots Reunion Might Not Happen
That said, context is crucial. NBC Sports Boston pointed out several factors that weigh against an obvious fit:
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Production decline: Matthew Judon’s performance in 2025 was far below his prior Pro Bowl form; he had zero sacks this season and limited impact.
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History with the locker room: His Patriots stint ended with a contract dispute and trade, and some team personnel reportedly had friction with him before that move.
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Culture building: Patriots head coach Michael Vrabel has emphasized a constructive locker room culture, something that past episodes with Judon have complicated.
So while the idea of “bringing back a beloved veteran” resonates with fans and analysts alike, internal dynamics and production concerns may temper New England’s interest.
According to @PFF
Matthew Judon is the worst edge rusher in the NFL.
— Savage (@SavageSports_) December 17, 2025
Where Judon Could Land Next
Outside of New England, several playoff teams likely will consider Matthew Judon if he clears waivers, especially contenders looking for a situational pass rusher with experience.
Judon’s four Pro Bowls and previous elite seasons make him an attractive midseason addition on the right deal.
Yes or no to pass rusher Matthew Judon in Green Bay?! pic.twitter.com/nJpHOZPf1l
— IKE Packers Podcast (@IKE_Packers) December 17, 2025
For the Patriots specifically, any pursuit may depend on whether they believe the potential upside outweighs the cultural and performance concerns, and whether they can structure a contract that reflects his recent production while incentivizing improved play.
The Bottom Line
Matthew Judon’s release by the Dolphins instantly sparked reunion chatter with the Patriots, given his past success in New England.
However, his recent on-field struggles and the circumstances of his departure make a return far from guaranteed.
Whether New England or another contender decides to add him, Judon will have options as a veteran edge rusher with a track record of impact when healthy and in the right role.
