The Philadelphia Eagles' trade of Asante Samuel to the Atlanta Falcons inspired a lot of heated reaction in Philadelphia and Atlanta. It gave the Eaglesgreat cap flexibility and fewer distractions, possibly at the expense of the team's talent level.
Coach Andy Reid, however, believed Samuel no longer offered much value.
"Reid thought (Samuel) was in steep decline and that his style no longer suited the scheme," Jeff McLane of the Philadelphia Inquirer wrote.
The second part is undoubtedly true in the sense that Samuel and Nnamdi Asomugha were playing two different positions. The team's shift in defensive philosophy didn't fit Samuel well.
We're a little surprised to see Reid thought Samuel was in "steep decline." He was the most consistent Eagles cornerback last year. ProFootballFocus' numbers say Samuel allowed fewer than 50 percent of the passes thrown in his direction. Teams had more success going after Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie and Asomugha.
If Samuel was looking for a little extra motivation, this report should provide it.
Update: Samuel caught wind of the report and didn't take too kindly to it.