NFL edge rushers Patriots could sign if they move on from Matthew Judon

While the New England Patriots aren't getting after it on the practice fields, they've still been a topic of discussion with edge rusher Matthew Judon posting about his contract situation on social media.

Last year, New England moved money from 2024 to 2023 on Judon's contract, and it was believed then that the veteran edge rusher would be asking for more again after the season. Then, Judon tore his biceps in Week 4 and missed the rest of the year.

Starting the offseason, Judon wasn't in attendance for the organized team activities attended by the media, but just a few weeks ago, in a radio interview, he did say that he wasn't worried about holding out or protesting for a new deal. Now, things seem to have changed.

Having Judon on the field should be huge for the defense led by new coordinator DeMarcus Covington, but if the contract situation is an issue, Judon could find his way off the roster. If the Patriots were to go that route, there are still a few players who could help fill the hole that Judon would leave. Let's take a look at who's still on the market in early July.

Free agent edge rushers:

• Yannick Ngakoue

• Jerry Hughes

• Rasheem Green

• Shaq Lawson

• Charles Harris

• Emmanuel Ogbah

• Markus Golden

• Justin Hollins

• Justin Houston

• Marquis Haynes

• Carl Lawson

• Kyle Phillips

• Pat O'Connor

• Tyus Bowser

• Derek Rivers

• Al-Quadin Muhammad

• Ifeadi Odenigbo