FLOWERY BRANCH — There are a lot of expectations that outside linebacker Matthew Judon, who was acquired in a trade with the Patriots, is set to be a centerpiece of the Falcons’ defense and help improve their anemic pass rush.
When the Falcons face the Steelers in the season opener Sept. 8 at Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Judon is ready to bring much more to the revamped defense.
“He definitely brings an attitude to the defense,” Falcons outside linebackers coach Jacquies Smiths told The Atlanta Journal-Constitution. “You can see just the swagger and stuff that he’ll (bring).”
Judon, who’s set to enter his ninth season, has 66.5 career sacks. He’s coming off a season that was shortened by a torn bicep. He’s fully aware of the Falcons’ problems with rushing the opposing passer in recent years.
“As a good pass rusher, as a good player, just in general, you can make other players better around you,” Judon said. “It’s kind of like that LeBron (James) effect. So, if I get 12 sacks and our (group) had 40, that’s good. I’m causing problems. That will give Grady (Jarrett) three or four more sacks.”