Patriots ‘Really Need’ To Get This Pass-Rusher After Matthew Judon Injury

The New England Patriots suffered a big blow in the last game on the NFL field. Losing Matt Judon to an injury will have a long-term effect to the Patriots pass rush. New England has a 3-1 record at this point of the season and fans are a little worried. One thing stands for sure. Bill Belichick will not give up on a trade. Moreover, the Patriots can soon fix the damage by agreeing to a trade deal for a pass rusher.

The Patriots will continue the season without their star player. Inside linebackers coach Jerod Mayo insists that a young pass-rusher has to show up and help the team overcome the situation. According to Mayo, Keion White is a key figure for the team at the moment. Mike Reiss from ESPN reported that several players will have to elevate their game in order to fill the void left by Judon.

LBs coach Jerod Mayo, asked about the loss of OLB Matthew Judon, mentions second-round pick Keion White as someone who will play more.

“We really need him to show up,”
Mayo says, adding it will be multiple players called upon based on that week’s game-plan. pic.twitter.com/6h7ALsuGmk

— Mike Reiss (@MikeReiss) October 3, 2023

Keion White causing problems early pic.twitter.com/rl6y5b9B3g

— Zack Cox (@ZackCoxNESN) September 24, 2023

White joined the NFL as the 46^th overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft. Belichick respects versatile player which makes White a valuable asset for the team. He can help the team with his versatility and can contribute to the defense. Patriots coaches will probably see White stand on the edge and provide strong pressure.

Keion White is real life Wreck-It Ralph https://t.co/nG5FLXGT2g pic.twitter.com/jvs9I8Ka2D

— Taylor Kyles (@tkyles39) October 2, 2023

Patriots have a backup plan to handle Judon and his injury

Versatile White can provide high performance at any given position. We could all agree that Judon cannot be replaced, but White can definitely reduce the damage. Judon had to undergo a surgery, meaning he will stay out for two months or more.

Belichick and Mayo can join forces and build a different defense. They can create a perfect position for White and turn him into a natural fit for the team. This will be a risky move for the team, but it may be the only way out.

Will take a village to replace Matthew Judon in the #Patriots defense. Would expect Jahlani Tavai to be a part of the group the replaces Judon.

Tavai was a bright spot for the Pats on Sunday. Sack, four stops, three QB pressures, PBU. One of his best games in New England. pic.twitter.com/n3wSAy4MEY

— Evan Lazar (@ezlazar) October 3, 2023

There are several other options for the Patriots. Evan Lazar from Patriots.com listed Jahlani Tavai as a potential replacement. The same goes to Josh Uche. He, Tavai, and White could contribute for the Patriots pass rush.