Eagles Trade Jordan Matthews to Buffalo

By: Jesse Larch, Sports Talk Philly Staff

A day after the Eagles' preseason opener in Green Bay they have made a big roster move. 

Eagles' slot receiver Jordan Matthews has been traded to the Buffalo Bills for cornerback Ronald Darby. The Eagles are also sending a third round pick in 2018 to Buffalo:

Roster Move: #Eagles acquire CB Ronald Darby from Buffalo in exchange for WR Jordan Matthews and a 2018 3rd-round pick. pic.twitter.com/ESIyOhkAwo

— Philadelphia Eagles (@Eagles) August 11, 2017

Matthews has been one of the most consistent and productive receivers in the league since being drafted in the second round of the 2014 draft. His 225 receptions rank first in Eagles' history and his 2,673 receiving yards rank third among Eagles' receivers in their first three seasons. 

Speculation has mounted during training camp about Jordan Matthews's future and role with the team as Nelson Agholor has been a standout throughout camp.

Doug Pederson recently said that he does not expect Matthews to have a reduced role. Pederson's comments came on the heels of offensive coordinator Frank Reich saying that the minutes would be earned in the receiver rotation. 

It is likely that the Eagles opted to move Matthews because he is in a contract year and due for a substantial increase in salary after this season. Nelson Agholor is under team control for the next two years, and Alshon Jeffery will be looking for a new deal at the end of the season.

Ronald Darby was a second round pick by the Bills in the 2015 draft. Through his first two seasons Darby has only missed three games with 137 tackles, 33 passes defensed, and two interceptions. Darby will step in and compete for a first team role with Jalen Mills and Patrick Robinson.

Eagles' Executive Vice President of Football Operations Howie Roseman will meet with the media at 2:15 p.m. to address the trade.