The Philadelphia Eagles finally ended their dance around guard Evan Mathis yesterday when they released the 33-year-old. Where will Mathis end up? The Minnesota Vikings seem like a quality fit for several reasons.
Offensive line coach Jeff Davidson and head coach Mike Zimmer are already familiar with Mathis. Davidson was the offensive coordinator for the Carolina Panthers during Mathis' final season there, while Zimmer was the defensive coordinator during Mathis' two year stint with the Cincinnati Bengals from 2008-10.
The Vikings have more than $10 million in remaining cap space for 2015 and could use some offensive line help. The team allowed the fifth most sacks (51) and the sixth most QB hits (96) in the NFL last year. Given second-year quarterback Teddy Bridgewater's slight frame (he is generously listed at 6-foot-2 and 210 pounds), the Vikings would be best served by limiting the amount of hits he takes.
Brandon Fusco has been working on the left side of the line during OTAs while rookies T.J. Clemmings (fourth round) and Tyrus Thompson (sixth round) compete for Fusco's old spot at right guard. But signing Mathis would enable Minnesota to move Fusco back to his natural position and put a two-time Pro Bowler next to struggling left tackle Matt Kalil.
A move such as this wouldn't come without its issues, though. Mathis is coming off a sprained MCL and it is unknown what type of contract demands he will have. He was reportedly unhappy with his $5.5 million salary in Philadelphia which contributed to his release. But the Vikings have a need at the position (not to mention a promising young quarterback to protect) and the salary cap space to make it happen. It wouldn't be a surprise if Mathis ended up in Minnesota, especially with the team emerging as a trendy playoff pick among NFL analysts.