In the market for a deep-threat wide receiver, the Philadelphia Eagles have reached out to former coach Chip Kelly's new organization.
The Eagles and San Francisco 49ers are in discussion about a potential trade involving wide receiver Torrey Smith, NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport reported, via a source informed of the situation. A deal could accelerate quickly, Rapoport added.
Although Kelly earlier in the day denied any knowledge of trade discussions involving five-time Pro Bowl left tackle Joe Staley, Rapoport confirmed the rebuilding 1-6 Niners are willing to part with several high-priced veterans before next week's trade deadline.
Smith has gone to waste since defecting from Baltimore to sign a five-year, $40 million contract in San Francisco two offseasons ago. The 49ers simply haven't had a quarterback capable of finding him on intermediate and deep routes.
The 27-year-old has just 13 catches this season after recording 33 all of last year. He never posted fewer than 49 receptions in four seasons with the Ravens.
The Eagles have a need for an experienced, speedy wideout with Jordan Matthews best suited to the middle of the field, Nelson Agholor unable to win consistently outside the numbers and Dorial Green-Beckham still too raw as a route runner.
Although Philadelphia's 2017 first-round pick went to Cleveland in the Carson Wentz trade, general manager Howie Roseman compensated by picking up Minnesota's top draft pick in the Sam Bradford swap. The Eagles also have an extra fourth-round selection from the Browns deal.
Roseman has been one of the most active wheelers-and-dealers since regaining his office from Kelly. It will be no surprise if Smith is soon catching passes from Wentz as the Eagles try to keep pace with the Dallas Cowboys in a tight NFC East race.
