With the dust still swirling around this week’s Matthew Judon trade, one notable Patriots departure remains very much on people’s minds.
During an interview during New England’s preseason game against Philadelphia on Thursday, reporter Steven Burton asked Patriots running back Rhamondre Stevenson about “the guy that’s just left the team” and “who’s going to take his place” in reference to Judon, who was dealt to the Falcons on Wednesday after an offseason full of contract turmoil.
However, Stevenson seems to think Barton was referring to another Patriot who recently left the team: former head coach Bill Belichick, who is leaving the team after the 2023 season.
“We miss Bill,” Stevenson said. Photo by Awful Announcing“He was one of my favorite coaches. [rookie head coach Jerod] “Mayo is a great leader. He knows what he’s doing for us. I’m excited for Mayo and I know I can do it with him.”
Burton then said, “I’m not talking about Mayo, the former Patriots linebacker and Belichick successor.”
“Yeah, Judon,” Stevenson replied. “He’s moving on to a better place,” Burton replied, quickly adding, “At least a different place.”
“It’s a different venue, but I’m excited for him. I know he’s still got a few more years to go, so I’m excited for him,” Stevenson said.
Judon had been seeking a new contract with the Patriots, but now the Falcons are sending a 2025 third-round draft pick to New England for the star pass rusher and “expect to work toward a deal” before the season begins next month. According to ESPN:.
The Patriots are in year one of the Mayo era after Belichick stepped down in January after 24 seasons with the team and six Super Bowl wins.
Like New England, Atlanta will enter the 2024 season with Raheem Morris as its new head coach, having beaten out Belichick for the job.
Belichick, who has been enjoying the offseason on Nantucket Island with his girlfriend, 23-year-old Jordan Hudson, has placed a premium on media appearances this year.
