The Atlanta Falcons faced questions about their defense for the 2024 season and offered a strong option by signing Matthew Judon from the New England Patriots. Reports of the deal surfaced Wednesday night after a weeks-long and public contract dispute between Judon and his former team.

Falcons coach Raheem Morris spoke to reporters on Thursday shortly after the deal was announced and revealed why he was so keen to have the four-time Pro Bowler on his team.

“It’s always exciting when you can add a dog to your group and he can be a part of it. I think we’re excited about it,” Morris said. “I think he’s excited about it. I think some of our players who know him personally are excited about it. His reputation precedes him.”

Judon was one of New England’s best pass rushers, but his 2023 season ended after just four games due to a bicep injury that sidelined him for the rest of the season. But Judon has been an impact player when healthy, recording 66.5 sacks in his career. And while there are some unknowns about how Judon will recover from his injury, Morris knows the linebacker can be a “game-wrecker.”

“When you have a guy with the ability to come in here and spoil your game, you have to figure these things out. I have a really important factor. We did that in LA with Von (Miller),” Morris told reporters. “We got him in a trade in the middle of the season, he was able to come in and turn into a spoiler. I had a chance to see Von in the playoffs. He got a ring for it. He was very successful.”

The Falcons made a splash with the long-term signing of Kirk Cousins ​​and now bolstered their defense by signing Judon to improve on last year’s 7-10 season.