Matthew Judon Reportedly Released by Dolphins, What Are His Top Landing Spots?

Veteran edge rusher Matthew Judon reportedly will be looking for a new home for the remainder of the 2025 season.

According to NFL Network's Mike Garafolo, the Miami Dolphins are releasing Judon after he appeared in 13 games for them this season.

Garafolo added that Judon "could be an option for playoff teams looking for a veteran presence," so some of his top landing spots include the Seattle Seahawks, New England Patriots and San Francisco 49ers.

In his 13 games this season, Judon totaled 19 tackles but failed to record a single sack. Per Pro Football Reference, he's registered seven quarterback pressures this year, so it's clear that he needs to be in a system better-suited to his skill set.

The Seahawks have one of the best defenses in the league, ranking fourth with 42 total sacks and an average of 283.0 yards allowed per game. After missing the playoffs in each of the last two years, Seattle has an 11-3 record and remains in the running for an NFC West title. Adding Judon to the mix would give the defense a veteran leader who can provide pass-rushing depth.

Before spending the 2024 season with the Atlanta Falcons, Judon was with the Patriots for the previous three years. In his first year in New England in 2021, he produced a career-high 12.5 sacks before surpassing that number with 15.5 sacks in 2022. His 2023 season was cut short after four games due to a torn lower bicep, so he could have some unfinished business with a franchise that ranks second in the AFC with an 11-3 record.

At 10-4, the 49ers are hoping to be the third NFC West team to earn a playoff spot behind the Seahawks and the Los Angeles Rams (11-3). However, San Francisco's pass-rush did a disappearing act amid injuries to a slew of key players, as the team ranks last in the NFL with just 16 sacks this season. Bringing in Judon could re-energize the 49ers' defensive front as they try to secure a wild-card spot.

Wherever Judon lands, he could make a difference in the playoff race as teams look to establish themselves as contenders for a spot in the Super Bowl this season.