An update on the Philadelphia Eagles’ dilemma with Ryan Mathews
So what’s going on with the Eagles and Ryan Mathews exactly?
It’s hard to imagine what’s been going on in the mind of Philadelphia Eagles running back Ryan Mathews. Most of the comments made by just about every publication and every member of the Eagles fanbase have been about the same. They’ve had Mr. Mathews walking the plank for quite a while. What’s worse is all of that started before there was a draft in Philadelphia or an NFL free agency period.
Now, the Eagles have added LeGarrette Blount in free agency and Donnel Pumphrey in the most recent NFL Draft. It truly appears Mathews’ days in Philly are truly numbered now. You also can’t forget that the Eagles added Corey Clement as an undrafted free agent shortly after the draft reached its’ conclusion.
The only question is why isn’t he gone yet?
It’s always about the almighty dollar:
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According to Les Bowen of the Philadelphia Daily News, it’s unlikely that Mathews will be released prior to everyone turning the calendar to the month of August. As always, the decision has to do with finances. Team doctors are set to reevaluate him in August.
Apparently, it’s uncertain as to whether or not he’ll be able to pass his physical. Still, the Eagles could evaluate him now, but that would present a problem. If he fails a physical and he’s released, they’d still owe him around $1.1 million. If they wait until later, when he’s ready to pass a physical, they wouldn’t have to pay him if he, does indeed, pass. They’d also still be on the hook for $1 million in dead cap money.
It appears that the second option is the plan at this point.
Risk versus reward:
Mathews’ two seasons in Philly have produced 1,200 yards rushing and 14 touchdowns on 261 attempts. He’s also chipped in with 261 yards and two touchdowns through the air. Unfortunately, most of what he’ll be remembered for, as has been the case his entire career, is being a little too fragile.
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Mathews has only played an entire 16 game schedule once in his seven seasons in the league. That hasn’t happened since 2013 though. The Eagles and their fans may have believed for quite some time that the risk of him being unavailable, his fumbling issues and the amount of money they’re paying him outweighs his potential when he actually does suit up and take the field for a game.
This one hasn’t been settled yet, so stay tuned.