Despite carrying an injury list as long as any in the NFL and missing about half of their star players, the San Francisco 49ers are just weeks away from earning a playoff spot. At 10-4, they have quietly taken advantage of their relatively light schedule, positioning themselves for another postseason run.
But especially in the playoffs, their extensive injuries could slow them down. The Niners are missing multiple key pieces on defense, including both of their starting edge defenders, Nick Bosa and Mykel Williams.
Defensive coordinator Robert Saleh has done an admirable job of keeping the unit afloat, but he needs more capable players to work with.
Luckily, an ideal addition just became available.
The Miami Dolphins are reportedly releasing veteran edge defender Matthew Judon. If the 49ers move quickly, he could become a key member of their defense for the remainder of this season.
Matthew Judon gives 49ers perfect solution to defensive injury woes
Judon has traveled from team to team quite a bit in the last few years. Just in the last three seasons, he’s played for the New England Patriots, the Atlanta Falcons, and the Dolphins. His stint in Miami was one of his shortest, though, as he appeared in just 13 games for the team. In that time, his production was nothing to write home about. He totaled 19 tackles, with one tackle for loss and no sacks. Clearly, he’s not the Pro Bowl-caliber player that he once was. No team is expecting him to produce double-digit sacks at this point in his career.
Still, he would represent veteran leadership and capable players for San Francisco unit that desperately needs both. He can be a quality run stopper, bringing some balance to Bryce Huff’s explosive pass-rush ability. At this point in his career, the 33-year-old defender may not be able to command a full workload, but he could be a stable piece of Saleh's rotation on the defensive line.
The 49ers will likely have to move fast if they want to bring Judon to the Bay Area, as other playoff teams are sure to be lurking. This time of year, veteran defenders can be the difference between an early playoff exit and an unexpected run. With his wealth of experience, Judon will likely have at least a couple of suitors.
If the Niners win the sweepstakes to get him, he could become an important part of their defense over the next month of football.