Introduction
Matthew Judon is one of the most respected defensive playmakers in the NFL. Known for his relentless motor, leadership, and versatility as an edge rusher and linebacker, Judon has carved out a successful professional career despite coming from a small college program. This article breaks down his personal life, on-field statistics, PFF grades, contract history, trade details, and tenure with the New England Patriots and beyond.
Who Is Matthew Judon’s Wife?
Matthew Judon is married to his longtime partner BreighAnn Judon, whom he met before his NFL career. The couple tied the knot in June 2018 after dating through college and early years of his professional life. They have three children together — daughter Aniyah and sons Leonidas and Azayda Joy — and maintain a strong family life off the field.
BreighAnn often supports Judon’s philanthropic efforts and personal causes, including charities he highlights in programs like My Cause My Cleats, where he honors important figures in his life such as his wife and mother.
NFL Career & Key Stats
Matthew Judon entered the NFL in 2016, drafted by the Baltimore Ravens in the fifth round (146th overall) out of Grand Valley State University. There he quickly developed into a productive pass rusher and defensive leader.
Career Highlights & Stats (as of 2025 season):
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Total Tackles: 423
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Sacks: 72.0
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Forced Fumbles: 9
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Pass Deflections: 19
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Interceptions: 1
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Defensive Touchdowns: 1
Judon has been named to the Pro Bowl four times (2019, 2020, 2021, 2022), highlighting his status as one of the premier defenders in the league during his peak years.
PFF Grades & Performance Analysis
Pro Football Focus (PFF) provides nuanced analytics beyond traditional statistics — though the most recent complete PFF data places Judon’s 2024 grade relatively low compared to his peers. According to PFF metrics from his Falcons season, Judon posted an overall grade around 43.0, ranking near the lower tier of qualifying edge defenders that season.
These grades suggest that, while Judon’s reputation is built on past production, some recent seasons have seen performance declines relative to younger defenders. Evaluators often consider factors like snap count, pressures, and run-defense efficiency when interpreting PFF grades.
Contract History & Financials
Judon’s NFL contracts reflect his rise from a mid-round pick to a high-value free agent:
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Ravens Rookie Contract: Standard 4-year deal after the 2016 draft.
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Patriots Four-Year Deal (2021): Roughly $54.5 million with over $30 million guaranteed, making him one of New England’s top defensive free-agent acquisitions.
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Contract Adjustment (2023): Included a revision boosting guaranteed money, demonstrating mutual commitment.
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One-Year Dolphins Contract (2025): Signed a one-year deal worth up to $6 million after leaving Atlanta.
His Patriots deal was especially notable for both term and guarantee — a major payday for a player drafted outside the top rounds — and underlined his impact in New England’s defensive front.
Trade From Patriots & Team Moves
Judon’s Patriots tenure came to a turning point in August 2024, when the team traded him to the Atlanta Falcons in exchange for a 2025 third-round draft pick.
The trade underscored contract negotiation tensions within New England; Judon reportedly sought compensation aligned with his on-field value, which didn’t fully align with the Patriots’ cap planning.
After spending 2024 with the Falcons, Judon joined the Miami Dolphins in 2025 on a short-term contract — adding veteran depth to their defensive rotation.
Patriots Legacy & Career Impact
Judon made perhaps his most significant NFL mark during his Patriots years (2021-2023), recording:
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32 sacks across 38 games in New England, ranking among the team leaders during that span.
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Multiple Pro Bowl nods and leadership roles on defense.
Though his time with the Patriots ended in a trade, his impact on New England’s defensive identity — particularly his ability to rush the passer consistently — remains a highlight of his career.
Conclusion
Matthew Judon’s journey from a Division II college standout to a four-time Pro Bowl linebacker is a testament to his work ethic and on-field excellence. Off the field, his stable family life with wife BreighAnn and their children adds depth to his public persona. As his career continues with the Miami Dolphins, Judon’s legacy — especially his time with the Patriots — remains a key chapter in modern NFL defensive play.
