Ryan Mathews, running back, Philadelphia Eagles
Mathews’ release has been expected for some time now. We’re not too sure why the Eagles are waiting, but the veteran will not be a member of the team come training camp. The 30-year-old former first-round pick of the then San Diego Chargers put up nearly 800 total yards with nine touchdowns last season. He also averaged a robust 4.3 yards per rush.
However, it’s readily apparent that Doug Pederson’s offense isn’t a fit for Mathews. That became obvious once Philadelphia drafted Donnel Pumphrey in the fourth round of April’s draft and signed veteran LeGarrette Blount a month later. Add in the presence of holdovers Darren Sproles and Wendell Smallwood, and there’s really no room for Mathews on the roster.
Set to earn $5 million with just a $1 million dead cap hit in 2017, the Eagles can get out from under Mathews’ contract relatively easy. Maybe the team is holding off on releasing him in hopes of finding a trade partner. But with his salary for the 2017 season, that seems highly unlikely. Look for Mathews to be released here soon.