The Philadelphia Eagles are reportedly trying to trade cornerback Jaylen Watkins, according to multiple league sources via Eliot Shorr-Parks of NJ.com.
If Watkins is not traded, he will still likely not return with the Eagles for this upcoming season, according to Shorr-Parks.
Watkins was the 101st pick by the Eagles in the 2014 draft. Last season in Philadelphia Watkins played in only four games and recorded three tackles. Watkins played college football at Florida, and in his four years there he recorded a total of 133 tackles and three interceptions. Since entering the league, Eagles head coach Chip Kelly has not played Watkins enough to make an impact, but that may likely be a decision Kelly makes on what he sees from Watkins in practice.
Watkins is likely on the back of the list in the defensive back area with the Eagles, and is likely why Kelly is seeing what he can get in return for him. With both Malcolm Jenkins and Eric Wolff likely to be starting safeties there is not much room for Watkins to earn playing time. The Eagles also drafted Eric Rowe in the second round out of Utah, and Kelly seems more likely to give Rowe an opportunity then Watkins. The Eagles also have defensive back Byron Maxwell who will be in his first season with Philadelphia, after getting 35 tackles and two interceptions for Seattle last season.
Battling with veterans, recently drafted rookies, and newly signed players makes it extremely difficult for Watkins to make a spot on this roster. Watkins will likely have another shot in the NFL to prove himself, but it won't be in Philadelphia.
