Patriots linebacker Matt Judon set his career high for sacks in a single season during Thursday night’s victory over the Falcons. The linebacker, who now has 10.5 sacks through only 11 weeks, looks poised to make a pro bowl and or all-pro appearance this season. He has been the defense’s most impactful player throughout the season, and some could even argue his case for team MVP up to this point
When asked about his individual success, Judon was quick to credit his teammates, “I already told y’all it’s my teammates. They put me in a great position.”
The Patriots’ defense, although faced with some challenges during the early weeks, has been an impressive and cohesive unit in recent weeks.
“DG (Davon Godchaux), Barmore, Carl (Davis), LG (Lawrence Guy) they were pushing the pocket,” Judon noted. “It was making it hard for the quarterback to step up, and I could run the edge.”
If opposing quarterbacks continue to find themselves within a collapsed pocket, it is likely that edge rushers such as Judon, Josh Uche, and Kyle Van Noy will continue to find success.
There is no denying the impact of the interior offensive line. Davon Godchaux has looked better in recent weeks and Christian Barmore has shown why he was worth trading up for. However, Judon deserves a large portion of the credit, which will most likely manifest itself in the form of an all-pro or pro bowl spot that would be well deserved.
(Photo of Matt Judon sacking Matt Ryan by David J. Griffin/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)