Patriots reportedly gave Matthew Judon this choice before the trade

Per NFL insider Albert Breer, the New England Patriots reportedly gave linebacker Matthew Judon the option of being traded to two teams: the Atlanta Falcons or Chicago Bears.

Judon ultimately decided on the Falcons before the deal was made.

Both teams offered third-round draft picks for the four-time Pro Bowl pass-rusher, and the Patriots extended the opportunity for Judon to decide on his next location.

The move brought an end to a three-year run for Judon in New England. Despite attempts by both sides, they were never able to agree on a contract extension. Judon is still one of the more talented pass-rushers in the NFL, and he obviously had a price in mind worthy of his services.

The Patriots had a price in mind as well, and it wasn’t likely as high for a 32-year-old veteran coming off a season-ending injury.

The Falcons were able to agree to a trade for Judon, but according to NFL on CBS’ Jonathan Jones, there is no current new contract in place for the defensive standout.

So Judon is playing on the same $6.5 million deal he would have played on with the Patriots. It’s a huge risk for the Falcons and certainly one that bears watching to see how it ultimately plays out in the end.