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Prior to the 2015 NFL Draft, the Philadelphia Eagles reportedly placed guard Evan Mathis on the trading block. There were rumors of interest, but the Eagles didn't pull the trigger on a deal.
Today, the Eagles flat out cut Mathis, making him a free agent that can sign with any team.
How good is Mathis? He's this good.
Evan Mathis was our top graded OG from 2011-13, and was 2nd last year in just 9 games. Best OG in the game now available. #OnYourMarks
— Pro Football Focus (@PFF) June 11, 2015
Mathis is pretty much the best guard in the game right now, and there's likely going to be a big bidding war for his services. He was reportedly staying away from the Eagles' Organized Team Activities because he wanted an increase in salary. He was slated to make around $5.5 million this coming season.
Now, I don't know if the Minnesota Vikings will be one of the teams pursuing Mathis, but man. . .they ought to be. I know the team likes T.J. Clemmings as a potential starter at right guard and there are some other folks in the picture at that position as well. But man. . .Mathis would be a huge upgrade at the position for this team.
Then again, if he was staying away because he wanted a bump in pay from $5.5 million, I'm guessing that's a whole lot more than the Vikings are willing to spend at this point. Still, it would be a pleasant surprise.
It's not every day that a guy that might be the best player in the National Football League at his position suddenly finds themselves out of a job. But, it's happened today with the Philadelphia Eagles releasing Evan Mathis.