This didn't take long to escalate.
Free-Agent Tracker
Follow all the developments on the NFL's open market with our up-to-the-minute tracking of 2014's free agents. **More...**
Mere hours after pointing out that recent trade speculation isn't sitting well with DeSean Jackson, we have learned that the Philadelphia Eagles are open to moving their Pro Bowl wide receiver.
NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport reports, via a source informed of the situation, that the Eagles are listening to offers for Jackson.
General manager Howie Roseman is seeking at least a third-round draft pick "and potentially more" in return for Jackson, according to CSN Philly's Derrick Gunn.
The team already has heard from the San Francisco 49ers and New England Patriots, per Gunn.
The 49ers are an intriguing match, as they are desperate for a speed element in the passing game, and Jackson played collegiately in the Bay Area at Cal. Jim Harbaugh's squad is tight against the salary cap, though, and Rapoport is under the impression they are not willing to pay the Eagles' current asking price.
The Patriots-Eagles phone call easily is explained. Roseman wheels-and-deals as much as any general manager in the game, and Bill Belichick's operation has made it a habit to inquire on available players.
Why would a team favored to win the NFC East and contend for a Super Bowl appearance be open to trading its No. 1 receiver and biggest mismatch in the passing game?
Jackson and coach Chip Kellygot off to a rocky start last offseason. There has been mounting speculation that the high-maintenance receiver is not a fit for the culture Kelly wants to instill.
We suspect the braintrust took an awfully dim view of Jackson's public plea for more money in January, less than two seasons after he was awarded a five-year, $48.5 million contract coming off a disappointing campaign.
Even with Jackson's unique talent, that perceived me-first attitude and a top-10 salary at wide receiver will challenge the Eagles' efforts to get fair value in a trade. If they decide to pull the trigger, it makes sense to wait until the weekend of the 2014 NFL Draft to see if they can lasso a replacement playmaker for Nick Foles.
The "Around The League Podcast" breaks down the latest free agency moves and highlights a few under-the-radar signings.
