Patriots 'Cannot Afford' To Let Star Defender Matthew Judon Leave

There are also eyes watching a potential contract situation with star edge rusher Matthew Judon. Judon, 31, is entering the final year of his four-year deal and might want a reworked contract — something he and the Patriots did last offseason — with the four-time Pro Bowler set to have a $6.5 million base salary this upcoming season, per Over The Cap. Judon wasn't present for last Monday's voluntary organized team activities session open to the media, which drew plenty of speculation that he was disgruntled over his contract. During the latest episode of NESN's “Foxboro Rush” podcast, co-hosts George Balekji and Travis Thomas discussed the uncertainty of Judon's future with New England and why the Patriots should explore all options to retain him.