Matthew Judon is the only Patriots player named to Pro Bowl
FOXBORO -- Matthew Judon is heading to his fourth straight Pro Bowl. The red-sleeved menace was the lone member of the New England Patriots selected for this year's festivities when rosters were announced Wednesday evening.
Judon has had a career year for the Patriots, racking up 14.5 sacks over the first 14 games this season. That total currently ranks second in the NFL behind, and break's Judon's previous career-high of 12.5 sacks that he set last season with the Patriots.
Patriots head coach Bill Belichick broke the news to Judon on Wednesday night. The honor is not lost on the 30-year-old.
"I want the team awards, but when you get these individual awards, you're thankful. You're playing a game and it means people watching are taking notice. I'm very thankful. Everything you get in this league you earn," Judon said Thursday.
"Even if you've been there before, every year is a new year. Every opportunity you get in the league, you earn," Judon continued. "You can't take anything for granted in this league. There are a lot of good players in this league. To be voted in between your fans, peers, and coaches, you're very thankful for what you get and what you earn."
Judon has now made the Pro Bowl in both of his seasons in New England. He'll be the only New England player at the revamped Pro Bowl, unless Rhamondre Stevenson, Josh Uche, Kyle Dugger, and/or Matthew Slater end up as injury replacements somewhere down the line.
Judon said Thursday that he thinks Dugger and Uche will eventually make the Pro Bowl roster. Until then, this will mark the first time since 2000 that the Patriots do not have multiple players named to the Pro Bowl.
The Pro Bowl will have a different look this year, with players from each conference competing in a series of skills competitions throughout the weekend. It will conclude with the first-ever flag football game between the AFC and NFC at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas on Feb. 5, 2023.
