Oakland Raiders: Making the case to pursue Jordan Matthews
The Oakland Raiders signed wideout Jordy Nelson after releasing Michael Crabtree during free agency, but should they add more help at the position?
The front office rewarded Oakland Raiders wideout Seth Roberts with a two-year extension for his 2016 performance — a season in which he battled through a double hernia to log 38 catches for 397 yards and five touchdowns. Yet, his inconsistencies continued through 2017. There’s some pause in labeling him a solid No. 3 receiver on the depth chart.
How does a second- or third-tier wideout at the potential cost of $4 million on a one-year deal sound? According to Jason Fitzgerald of Over the Cap, the Raiders could add another offensive asset for quarterback Derek Carr at a low cost.
Fitzgerald estimates wide receiver Jordan Matthews to command a one-year, $4 million contract due to the scarcity of suitors:
Way things are going for the tier 2/3 WRs probably 1 year at $4m. better to take a 1 year deal a this point if you didnt get the multi year offer early on https://t.co/gQENAY0K1P
— Jason_OTC (@Jason_OTC) March 25, 2018
There’s a reason for the low demand in a 25-year old receiver who led the Philadelphia Eagles wide receiver group in receptions (85), yards (997) and touchdowns (eight) during the 2015 campaign. He underwent surgeries on his knee and ankle during the offseason. As a result, it’s possible Matthews could miss an early portion of the offseason to recover.
More from NFL Spin Zone
- Dallas Cowboys made the trade everyone else should have made
- Pittsburgh Steelers rookie sleeper everyone should be talking about
- Anthony Richardson putting jaw-dropping talent on display immediately
- Denver Broncos’ stud wide receiver might be out for a while
- Washington Commanders: Three takeaways from win over Ravens
Nonetheless, it’s a potential low-risk signing for the Raiders if his price tag doesn’t exceed $4 million per year. Oakland would have a pass-catcher who’s fully capable of filling the No. 3 spot behind Amari Cooper and Jordy Nelson on the depth chart.
For those concerned about Matthews’ chemistry with a new quarterback, consider the constant turnover in Philadelphia at the position between the 2014-16 seasons.
In his rookie year, Mark Sanchez and Nick Foles logged eight starts apiece. In the following term, Sam Bradford made 14 appearances as a starter. In 2016, Carson Wentz led the huddle in all 16 games.
Throughout the changes under center, Matthews’ production remained consistent as a reliable target for each quarterback taking the reins under center. It speaks to his ability to adjust.
Matthews struggled through the 2017 campaign largely due to injury. He missed six games and played within a conservative Buffalo Bills offense that focused on establishing the run. The former second-rounder finished with 25 receptions for 282 yards and a touchdown in the previous season, which also factors into the low interest on the open market.
Next: Oakland Raiders: Bruce Irvin’s position could help Shilique Calhoun
Despite the offseason surgeries and subpar 2017 term, Oakland should kick the tires on Matthews, who’s still in his prime and displayed consistency in Philadelphia.
In the worst-case scenario, he’ll start slow due to offseason surgeries and pick up steam after six weeks. At best, the Raiders would have a No. 2 receiver in the fold, who can lessen the blow if Nelson shows a sharp decline in his age-33 season.