Can Matt Judon Fix the Panthers’ Broken Pass Rush? Team Eyes Veteran After Dolphins Release

The Carolina Panthers are considering a major move to salvage their struggling defense. Veteran edge rusher Matt Judon hit the waiver wire on Wednesday. He was released by the Miami Dolphins after a quiet season. Carolina, desperate for quarterback pressure, is now a potential landing spot.The Panthers have one of the weakest pass rushes in the NFL. This is a persistent issue the front office has failed to solve. Adding a proven veteran like Judon could provide a critical late-season boost.

A Proven Track Record Meets a Pressing Need

Carolina’s sack numbers are among the league’s worst. They ranked last in 2023 with just 27 sacks. The team improved only slightly to 32 sacks last season. This year, the struggle continues despite draft investments.According to league data, the Panthers have only 23 sacks through 14 games. Nearly half came in just two outings. This inconsistency has plagued the defense all year. The team’s playoff hopes are on the line in a tight division race.Judon’s 2025 stats with Miami show zero sacks. His career tells a very different story. The four-time Pro Bowler racked up 72 sacks over nine seasons before this year. He was a consistent force for Baltimore and New England.

A Low-Risk, High-Reward Scenario for Carolina

For the Panthers, claiming Judon is a calculated gamble. He would cost little against the salary cap. The team needs immediate help for its final three games. Judon’s experience and past production are undeniable assets.He could mentor young pass rushers like Nic Scourton. More importantly, he might rediscover his form in a new scheme. Even a slight uptick in pressure could change games. The Panthers face two crucial matches against division rival Tampa Bay.The front office must decide if Judon has anything left. His quiet season in Miami raises fair questions. Yet his pedigree makes him worth a look for a team this needy. It is a classic deadline dilemma for general manager Dan Morgan.

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The Panthers’ search for a pass rush solution may lead them to Matt Judon. This potential claim represents a final attempt to fix a years-long problem. Carolina’s playoff destiny could hinge on finding any defensive spark.

Info at your fingertips

Why did the Dolphins release Matt Judon?

The Miami Dolphins were eliminated from playoff contention. The team made a roster move to part ways with the veteran. Judon had not recorded a sack for them this season.

How bad is the Panthers’ pass rush really?

It has been a bottom-tier unit for three straight years. Carolina had the fewest sacks in the NFL in 2023. Their 2025 total of 23 sacks ranks in the bottom five.

What did Matt Judon do in his prime?

Judon was a dominant edge rusher for the Ravens and Patriots. He earned four Pro Bowl selections between 2019 and 2022. He tallied 72 career sacks before joining Miami.

Could Judon actually help the Panthers this season?

He would provide veteran experience for a young group. His knowledge could be valuable in critical games. A change of scenery might help him regain some effectiveness.

Who are the Panthers’ current edge rushers?

The team drafted Nic Scourton and Princely Umanmielen last April. Veteran Jadeveon Clowney is also on the roster. The group’s overall production has been disappointing this year.