Ryan Poles Can Finally Land His White Whale — And The Timing Is Perfect

Last season, the Chicago Bears knew they needed help on the defensive line to fortify their pass rush. GM Ryan Poles had a reputation for being aggressive in those situations. One name that came up was Matthew Judon. The Pro Bowl edge rusher was on the outs with the New England Patriots due to a contract issue. It was clear the team was entering a rebuilding phase. A trade was coming. Poles made a strong offer to get him. Unfortunately, he went to the Atlanta Falcons instead for a 3rd round pick.

After that didn’t work out, Judon signed a one-year deal with the Miami Dolphins in August to join them. A brutal season down there has led to significant changes. GM Chris Grier was already fired. Quarterback Tua Tagovailoa was just benched. Now the Dolphins have granted Judon his release, allowing him to join a team for a playoff push. Poles has pursued him for over a year. This feels like the perfect time for the Bears to bring in the veteran. He won’t solve their pass rush issues, but he could give them some extra depth during the most pivotal three-game stretch of their season.

Ryan Poles should get Judon if the price is cheap.

Make no mistake. This is not the same player from three years ago, when he dominated with 69 total pressures and 17 sacks. Truth be told, it feels like he hasn’t been the same since he tore his bicep in 2023. Then again, he is 33. Age catches up to players fast. Judon may simply not have the explosiveness he did a few years ago. That said, there is no reason to think he can’t give them a handful of good rushes on passing downs. A foursome of him, Montez Sweat, Austin Booker, and Joe Tryon-Shoyinka could be a decent rotation.

Much of this depends on Ryan Poles himself. Is his interest in Judon still there? The veteran hasn’t played well in Miami this year. Then again, nobody on that defense has. They often say a change of scenery can do wonders for a player. Chicago is winning. They’re led by an excellent defensive coordinator, Dennis Allen. It feels like a risk worth taking. If the Bears can somehow squeeze even half of the player out of Judon he was a few years ago, the price will be worth it.