Patriots’ Jerod Mayo Addresses New Matthew Judon Trade Report

The ongoing Matthew Judon-Patriots saga reached a new level Monday.

Three days before New England's second preseason game, ESPN NFL insider Jeremy Fowler reported "multiple teams" have inquired about Judon's availability. Judon has been outspoken about his desire for a new contract, and the relationship between the star pass-rusher and the Patriots has appeared tarnished at various points this summer.

This wasn't the first time a big-name Patriot was mentioned in trade speculation amid training camp. Kendrick Bourne was rumored to be a trade chip when New England still was in pursuit of Brandon Aiyuk, and Jerod Mayo revealed he spoke with the wide receiver himself about the chatter. On Tuesday, the first-year head coach was asked if he took the same approach with Judon.

"We don't really operate in rumors like that," Mayo told reporters, per a team-provided video. "You know, the conversations I have with those players are pretty private. What I will say is that Judon's done a great job in the meeting room and done everything that we've asked. He's meeting all the expectations."

Judon a few weeks ago emphatically declared he didn't want to be traded by the Patriots, but that was before his dustup with Mayo and pair of missed practices. The four-time Pro Bowl selection has since rejoined New England, but it's unclear if his stance on potential relocation has changed.

Are the Patriots a better team with Judon on the field? Yes. But at this point, New England probably should at least listen to offers for the veteran linebacker.