Jeremy Maclin Has Reasons To Return To Philadelphia
By Matt Giraldi
Philadelphia Eagles fans have a right to be hesitant when it comes to Jeremy Maclin. His history suggests “buyer beware” while his production suggests “buy low.”
Now that the Kansas City Chiefs have released Jeremy Maclin, maybe the Philadelphia Eagles should consider signing him to a (majorly) cap-friendly contact.
Stop me if you have heard this over the past few days.
Chances are, many Eagles fans feel that Maclin is a shell of his former self. Maybe he can’t make the sharp precise breaks on routes he used to be able to do. Perhaps Maclin cannot offer the same burst off the line of scrimmage at the snap of the ball. There’s a case that the position is well addressed.
There’s also a distinct possibility that Maclin cannot offer any of the traits he gave to the Eagles the last time he was under contract. There’s also a possibility that if the Eagles did pursue Maclin, he would become the second best receiver on the team.
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Maclin turned 29 years old on May 11th. As an NFL player gets closer to 30 years old, it appears that desirability fades quickly. He would instantly become the oldest Eagles wide receiver (yes Torrey Smith is still only 28 years old).
So what’s in it for the Eagles (and for that matter, Maclin)?
First and foremost, Maclin is likely facing a short-term, team-friendly “prove it” deal. What better way to prove to the rest of the league than to perform in a familiar offense? Of course, the financial details are certainly a hurdle for the Eagles.
While Smith is a newcomer, he’s no assurance to make the 53-man roster. As Eliot Shorr-Parks noted, Pro Football Focus gave Maclin a 12% drop rate last season while giving Smith a 23% rate. Perhaps I speak for myself, but drops are not what this Eagles team needs from it’s wide receivers. The two could co-exist as well. Maclin has increasingly played as a slot receiver recently.
Last season could have been an anomaly. Maclin’s average of yards per route run were the second lowest of his career. Dealing with injuries could have been a big factor in the lack of production however. Regardless, most teams aren’t going to be willing to pony up significant cash to sign him. That works in Philadelphia’s favor though.
It’s highly unlikely Maclin lands with the Eagles. Teams with a pressing need, such as Baltimore, are likely going to be aggressive suitors. However, Maclin does have incentive to play in Doug Pederson’s offense, and the Eagles have reasons to give Carson Wentz more weapons in the passing game. If there’s one thing Lloyd Christmas has taught me, it’s that there’s always a chance.