AFC East news: Patriots trade away star defender Matthew Judon

The New England Patriots have sustained a tough loss to their roster ahead of a season that was already not expected to be a good one.

The Pats have traded star pass rusher Matthew Judon to the Atlanta Falcons. Judon and the team were having a contract dispute.

In return, New England received a third-round pick for their Pro Bowler.

Judon was in the final year of his contract and failed to agree to terms with the Patriots on an extension, despite being offered a new deal over the summer according to Patriots Wire.

Judon spent the past three seasons in New England after starting his career with the Baltimore Ravens.

Judon was injured four games into last season but still put up four sacks. In 33 games with the Patriots, he had an impressive 32 total sacks.

While a talented player, the Buffalo Bills did traditionally handle Judon well. He only had one sack against the Bills in his four games as a Patriot against Buffalo.

Regardless, the Bills won’t be upset about Judon leaving the division.