Matthew Judon joins Buffalo Bills practice squad following Dolphins release
Matthew Judon wasted no time in securing his next opportunity in the NFL. Just two days after the Miami Dolphins parted ways with the veteran linebacker, Judon made a visit to the Buffalo Bills, where reports confirm that the team plans to sign him to their practice squad. This move reunites Judon with several former Dolphins teammates, including defensive tackle Jordan Phillips and safety Jordan Poyer, creating a familiar environment for the seasoned player.
Judon’s stint with the Dolphins was relatively short-lived. He played in 13 games and made three starts after being signed midway through training camp. During his time on the field, he recorded 19 tackles, but his impact was limited, as he managed only three quarterback hits and did not register a sack while participating in less than half of the defensive snaps.
Reasons Behind Judon’s Release
The decision to release Judon was candidly addressed by Dolphins defensive coordinator Anthony Weaver. When asked about the move, Weaver expressed his fondness for Judon but emphasized the performance-based nature of the business. “I love Matt,” Weaver affirmed. “In terms of what he did while he was here, it’s a production-based business, and just what we were looking for out of that position hadn’t really been delivered on. That’s the nature of the beast, that’s where we’re at. I love him man, and I wish him all the best moving forward.”
Weaver also highlighted the potential for other players to step up in Judon’s absence, noting that he is eager to see what players like Cam Goode and Quinton Bell can bring to the table. “When these things happen, the thing I get excited for most is just the opportunities for the guys behind them and to see if they answer the bell,” he remarked.
A Strategic Move for the Dolphins
Head coach Mike McDaniel hinted at the strategic reasoning behind Judon’s release, suggesting that the team was likely to make him inactive for the upcoming game against the Cincinnati Bengals. By releasing him, Judon would have the chance to join another team before the season’s end, a move that ultimately led him to Buffalo.
With Judon now aligning himself with the Bills, he finds himself in a unique position, having played for nearly every team in the AFC East. He began his NFL journey as a second-round pick with the Baltimore Ravens, then spent three seasons with the New England Patriots before a brief tenure with the Atlanta Falcons last year. Now, his latest chapter unfolds with the Buffalo Bills, offering him a fresh start and the opportunity to contribute to a team with playoff aspirations.
