Former New England Patriots linebacker Matt Judon had a three-word reaction to Keion White’s breakout performance in the Patriots’ Week 1 upset win over the Cincinnati Bengals.
“3 of em,” Judon posted on Instagram, referring to White’s sack total in the game.
White finished the game with four tackles and 2.5 sacks against a Bengals offense led by a returning Joe Burrow. The second-year defensive end wreaked havoc along the offensive front and played game-wrecker in place of Judon, who was traded to the Atlanta Falcons in August.
There was hope that White could help fill the pass-rushing void left by Judon. So far, so good for the second-round draft pick out of Georgia Tech.
“Passed the torch,” White responded to Judon.
Matthew Judon comments on Keion White's Week 1 breakout performance, and White responds. pic.twitter.com/7mpYDpYHhk
— Jordy McElroy (@JordyMcElroy) September 9, 2024
The Patriots got creative by moving White around to multiple spots along the defensive front. It’s impressive that a player with such limited NFL experience was able to seamlessly move between positions like White did in Sunday’s opener.
Judon would make any team instantly better. He’s a four-time Pro Bowler who deserves the respect as such. With that said, White showed he is ready to step beyond the shadows and carry the torch to the moon.
Opposing offenses should be wary.