Philadelphia Eagles news: Jordan Matthews to exclusively play in the slot

When the Philadelphia Eagles cut DeSean Jackson, it was all but a certainty that they would be drafting a wide receiver. Well back in May, in the second round of the event, they did just that when they selected Vanderbilt standout Jordan Matthews. With the versatility that he brings to the table, some almost see him as a Jackson clone.

More from NFL

• NFL rumors: Dalvin Cook suitor maintaining very ‘real’ interest
• Packers training camp news: Jordan Love struggles, Bakhtiari schedule, position switch
• 3 Cowboys who won’t be on the roster after training camp
• Packers: Aaron Rodgers reached out to Jordan Love this offseason
• Damar Hamlin is a ‘full go’ at Bills training camp

He very well could be in his production down the road, but he won’t be in where he lines up on the field.

According to head coach Chip Kelly, Matthews will exclusively be playing his game from the slot position, as opposed to Jackson, who did a lot of his damage from the outside.

That comparison from Tucker to Colston is not a bad sign, neither. The Eagles would certainly be happy with that kind of production out of their rookie.

Still, this could end up being a perfect fit. With Jeremy Maclin returning this year after missing last season with a knee injury, Matthews will be perfect at coming out of the slot and getting the ball in his hands. Once he gets into the open field, there’s virtually nothing that he can’t do.

The loss of Jackson may not end up stinging as much as a lot of people originally thought.