49ers Sign Defensive Lineman Matthew Judon to Practice Squad
The San Francisco 49ers announced on Sept. 28, 2026, that they have signed defensive lineman Matthew Judon to the team’s practice squad. Judon, listed at 6-foot-3 and 265 pounds, was selected in the fifth round (146th overall) of the 2016 NFL Draft by the Baltimore Baltimore Ravens. He is a 34-year-old native of West Bloomfield, Mich., and has played for multiple clubs during his career.
Throughout his 10-year NFL career, Judon has appeared in 145 games with 100 starts for the Baltimore Ravens (2016-20), New England Patriots (2021-23), Atlanta Falcons (2024), Miami Dolphins (2025) and Buffalo Bills (2025). His regular-season totals include 423 tackles, 72 sacks, 20 passes defensed, nine forced fumbles, four fumble recoveries and one interception returned for a touchdown. He earned four Pro Bowl selections from 2020-23.
He has appeared in five postseason contests, with three starts, and totaled 14 tackles, 1 sack and one forced fumble. Judon attended Grand Valley State University from 2010-15, appearing in 42 games with 32 starts and registering 204 tackles, 35 sacks, eight passes defensed, eight forced fumbles, three fumble recoveries and one interception. The team announced the practice-squad signing on Sept. 28, 2026.
The signing adds veteran depth to the 49ers’ defensive front and provides a proven pass-rush option available for elevation if needed. Judon’s experience and past production give San Francisco insurance against injuries along the defensive line. He joins the practice squad after a decade in the league.
NFL Sports Blog Take
Judon brings established pass-rush production and starting experience, as reflected by his 72 sacks and four Pro Bowl nods. Placing him on the practice squad gives the 49ers roster flexibility while keeping a veteran edge defender available for short-term elevation. His postseason experience and consistent production across multiple teams make him a low-risk option for situational deployment or injury insurance.