Judon practices with Patriots after meeting with Mayo

Matthew Judon returned to practice Thursday after meeting with New England Patriots head coach Jerod Mayo.

"It was good. It was healthy," Mayo said about his talk with Judon, according to ESPN's Mike Reiss. "I always encourage those guys to come in and speak with me, or speak with (executive) Eliot (Wolf). That's what it is, and those things should happen inside those walls."

Judon has been visibly disgruntled with the Patriots over the absence of a new contract. He hasn't been spotted at practice since walking off the field Monday following a conversation with Mayo. He also had an animated discussion with Wolf and executive Matt Groh.

He denied a report Wednesday that stated the Patriots made him a contract offer.

"I remember as a player, it's always a difficult time when you go through contract negotiations and things like that," Mayo added. "I have a great relationship with Matthew. I have a great relationship with the players. We're moving forward."

Judon is scheduled for free agency after the 2024 season, and the final year of his deal has no guaranteed money.

The veteran has developed into a premier pass-rusher since joining the Patriots as a free agent in 2021. Judon notched a then personal best 12.5 sacks in 2021 before topping that with 15.5 sacks in 2022. He was limited to just four games last season due to a torn biceps but tallied four sacks.