Jeremy Maclin had big plans for himself in 2013. The wide receiver was aware he was entering a contract year and was hoping to build upon his success and be one of the reliable playmakers for the Philadelphia Eagles. However, that plan ended when Maclin tore his ACL and missed the entire year. Now approaching free agency, the wide receiver is concerned he has lost all leverage in negotiations.
Maclin has made it clear he hopes to return to the Eagles for the long-term. The wide receiver has certainly been successful in his first years on the team, but his recent injury hurts his status. Now Maclin is realizing he may have to settle for less if Philadelphia is truly where he wants to play.
"I understand it could be a possibility that [the ACL tear] may scare some teams off, or a team may want to do a one-year deal as opposed to a long-term contract," Maclin said, via CSNPhilly's Derrick Gunn. "That's the game, that's the business."
Of course Maclin desires a long-term contract that would make his future more secure going forward. But injuries certainly can hurt that no matter what his previous stats are. Maclin is regarded as one of the more intriguing free agents. He averages 863 yards and six touchdowns per season from 2009 to 2012. He has great speed and hands while being a big playmaker. If it was not for the ACL injury, Maclin would have every team interested in his services.
The Eagles receiver wants to stay in Philadelphia and has begun negotiations with general manager How Roseman. While a long-term extension might not work out, the team could end up giving a one-year deal to see how he progresses and returns after the injury.
"I understand this is a business, I understand he has to look out for what's best for the organization, and that's what he's supposed to do," Maclin said. "I have all the faith that he's going to do what's best for the organization, whether that's deciding to keep me there or moving in another direction. I'm a realist, I understand that's a possibility. For a team that wants to give me a one-year deal, that's cool, I'll just go out there and ball out, do the things I think I can do."
The knee injury is not all that hurts Maclin. The rise of Riley Cooper also impacts the receiver's future. Cooper started in place of Maclin after the injury and emerged as a true NFL talent throughout the season. Cooper's chemistry with quarterback Nick Foles cannot be denied. He is also in search of a contract extension after finishing out his rookie deal.
Roseman remains confident that the Eagles can re-sign both receivers during the offseason, but long-term deals will likely not be involved. Cooper could get a multi-year deal while Maclin could be forced into a one-year deal and earn a larger contract in 2015.