The quarterback battle is only one storyline preparing to take place in training camp for the Philadelphia Eagles. While Sam Bradford and Mark Sanchez battle it out for the top spot, there is also some competing taking place at the wide receiver position. The Eagles have undergone a lot of changes in that area in the past year with Jeremy Maclin and DeSean Jackson both out. Now, Riley Cooper could be facing the same fate if he does not do enough to establish his spot on the roster during training camp.
Prior to the 2014 season, Cooper signed a contract worth five years and $22.5 million. He is set to earn $4 million this season, but is not guaranteed anything with the team. According to NFL Media Insider Gregg Rosenthal, Cooper is the most likely roster cut the Eagles could make if head coach Chip Kelly is willing to admit mistake with the wide receiver. Cooper is coming off a down season with the team after having a breakout year thanks to Nick Foles and now there is a lot of roster competition pushing him down the depth chart.
The Eagles will operate with Jordan Matthews taking over the top spot on the depth chart. Zach Ertz will come in as the likely second-favorite target at tight end. Rookie Nelson Agholor impressed during team OTAs and mini-camp making him an option to start and according to CSNPhilly.com, Josh Huff is the next in line. That could place Cooper at the No.6 spot behind even Darren Sproles. Is he worth the money if that is the case?
The biggest threat to Cooper is the development of Agholor and the involvement of Sproles. According to CSNPhilly.com, Sproles worked out a lot with the wide receiver group during team practice. With DeMarco Murray as the leading rusher, the versatile running back will be used more in passing situations. That takes away plays from Cooper.
Releasing Cooper would be a financial mistake. While his contract is not heavy on the books, it is still not the ideal move. The Eagles could easily try and trade Cooper if they really feel he is a bad fit for the team. Plenty of teams would gladly take the wide receiver on for the upcoming year to help with depth. Ultimately, Cooper is expected to stay on with the Eagles, but do not rush to add him on a fantasy team just yet. Huff could end up being the bigger breakout star.