Matthew Judon talked to reporters on Monday at training camp about his desire to get a new contract from the New England Patriots.
The four-time Pro Bowler had fellow linebacker Jahlani Tavai join him for the media session after practice. For two questions, Tavai acted as Judon’s interpreter. Each time, Judon leaned over to Tavai to give his response.
This was the latest part of the training camp story where Judon is seeking what he believes is fair pay while making sure his perspective is heard. “Judon feels great,” Tavai answered to the first question.
When asked if there was any news about Judon’s contract, Tavai replied with “next question” into the microphone after some time.
Judon then answered the questions himself. He was asked about his behavior during last Monday’s practice, which included animated discussions with head coach Jerod Mayo and Patriots staffers Eliot Wolf and Matt Groh.
“We had a conversation. I didn’t want to be a distraction to the team. I wasn’t participating in drills that day so I went inside. Then I got a message and came back out to talk to our general manager. At times I talk with my hands,” Judon said.
“Regardless of the emotions involved, you try and get to an understanding. Just because we don’t agree doesn’t mean we don’t understand each other’s side.”
Earlier in camp, Judon mentioned that he signed his current contract with the Patriots in the 2021 offseason. However, he wants a salary increase as one of the NFL’s top edge rushers, having recorded 32 sacks in 38 career games with New England.
“We have a market set by the highest guy, then everybody falls in line until the next person breaks that contract,” Judon said. “I have to go out there and do what I’m obligated to do so I don’t lose any money.”
Judon is set to become a free agent after the 2024 season. He emphasized that only one side of the story is being shared.
