Falcons Reportedly Add Another Star Defender After Matthew Judon Trade

The Atlanta Falcons have added a pair of star defenders approximately three weeks before the start of the 2024 NFL season.

Atlanta on Thursday afternoon agreed to terms with star safety Justin Simmons on a one-year deal worth $8 million, according to multiple reports. Simmons, who was released by the Denver Broncos this offseason, was widely viewed as the top free agent on the open market -- encompassing all positions.

The reported signing came on the same day the Falcons announced they acquired outside linebacker Matthew Judon in a trade with the New England Patriots. Atlanta sent New England a third-round pick in the deal, though the franchise reportedly does not intend to extend Judon.

Judon made his contract frustrations clear during Patriots training camp. The 32-year-old edge rusher is set to play on his final year of his contract, and is set to earn a base salary of $6.5 million.