Sep 15, 2013; Philadelphia, PA, USA; Philadelphia Eagles guard Evan Mathis (69) leaves the field after playing the San Diego Chargers at Lincoln Financial Field. The Chargers defeated the Eagles 33-30. Mandatory Credit: Howard Smith-USA TODAY Sports
Things are heating up in the Evan Mathis drama.
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The Philadelphia Eagles guard has spoken out all offseason about getting a new contract and isn’t worried about sitting out until he does. Things are starting to rub not only his coaches but also his teammates the wrong way.
As reported by Josh Alper at Pro Football Spot, when left tackle Jason Peters was asked if he’d miss Mathis he stated “not really”, proving to all that it’s possible that Mathis isn’t a liked guy in the Eagles locker room.
Yikes. Personally, I wouldn’t want a new contract with the Eagles if I’m being thought of in that way especially among fellow offensive lineman.
So how is this relevant to the Buffalo Bills? It’s been reported on-and-off all offseason that Mathis, entering his 12th season in the NFL, could find his way to Western New York by the time the season starts in early September.
After general manager Doug Whaley signed Richie Incognito in the offseason and drafted Louisville guard John Miller in the third round of this years draft, they may not have as strong of a need at the position as some previously thought. Buffalo also has their fifth-round pick from the 2013 NFL draft Cyril Richardson, amongst others, vying for a starting spot in 2015.
Like when I entertained the possibility of Buffalo trading for Eric Weddle last week, the Bills would have to give Mathis a new deal. He’s entering his fourth year of his five-year, $25 million dollar contract.
While he’ll be turning 34 on Nov. 1, Mathis is still one of the best guards in the league. According to Pro Football Focus, Mathis was rated the second-best guard in 2014 throughout weeks 10-17 (did not play weeks 2-9).
Overall, Mathis would drastically improve Buffalo’s offensive line heading into a season that many believe could be a successful one.