Watkins contract talks hit a wall
The Philadelphia Inquirer Blog - Eagles
Watkins contract talks hit a wall
Jeff McLane, Inquirer Staff Writer
BETHLEHEM, Pa. – Negotiations between the Eagles and top draft pick Danny Watkins have hit a wall.
Eagles officials have become frustrated with the pace of talks with agent Eric Metz, while Metz’ group points to their negotiating a deal for No. 9 pick tackle Tyron Smith as evidence that they can get a deal done.
When Joe Panos, who works with Metz, was asked about the slow pace he pointed out that negotiations for Smith – who was drafted by the Cowboys – “went in a very timely matter and he was signed and in camp by Thursday.”
Panos would not comment specifically on Watkins’ contract talks. Metz did not return a message.
“We handle contract talks internally,” Eagles general manager Howie Roseman said. “But with Danny were eager to get him here and on the field.”
Eighteen of the 32 first-round picks have either signed contracts or agreed to terms on a deal. Watkins was selected No. 23 overall out of Baylor. Draft picks Nos. 21 and 22 – Cleveland defensive tackle Phil Taylor and Indianapolis tackle Anthony Constanzo – have yet to ink deals.
Last week before the NFL lockout ended, Watkins said that he was not going to let his contract situation hold up getting into camp. The Eagles have the 26-year-old penciled in as the starter at right guard. Currently A.Q. Shipley is filling his spot.
Watkins drove up to Lehigh on Wednesday when players were to report, but the team – because he wasn’t under contract -- sent him home after he collected his equipment.
The Eagles’ previous two No. 1 draft picks – defensive end Brandon Graham and wide receiver Jeremy Maclin -- missed camp time because of extended negotiating.
Metz’ group represented 2007 No. 1 draft pick Jamarcus Russell and the former Oakland and current free agent quarterback missed all of camp and the first game of the season.
The problem is Metz rythmes to much like Mets, and seems to be holding the deal up here. By the time he is able to come to camp, he will be 27 years old.— PhilliefaninAZ- Actually, I believe those two words are homophones ... not that there's anything wrong with that.
- The problem is Metz rythmes to much like Mets, and seems to be holding the deal up here. By the time he is able to come to camp, he will be 27 years old.— PhilliefaninAZ
- HArd to believe, they must be close to something. With the number of 1 picks signed it should be simple math to calculate his slot. Never like to see this, but this year? Come On Guys!— EagleEye61
- this is absolutely ridiculous. These "kids" have never played a snap in the NFL and are basically "holding out." He wants to practice and showed up. Who is to blame? THE AGENTS!!! I thought the new CBA would address this but I was wrong. Set up a set 1st rd rookie contract salary structure.— klimeagle
- I like Watkins, but he was talking about just wanting to get to camp and not worried about the money. It must be the agents. He needs to be there yesterday.— phillyinsd
- He is too old to sit out long.— Ssteve115
- Jerk agent. He preys on country bumpkins like Watkins.— Drew777
- If he sits out much longer, it will be time for retirement.— Penfold18
WTF?- Kid Watkins is chomping at the bit to get to camp but just needs a little more time to be sure that all the negativity from the Kolb melodrama is gone.— Astro Jones
- hmmmm... DeSean holds out and he's a punk. Watkins holds out so his agent is a jerk. I wonder what the difference is.— bc3030
- The difference is DeSean already has a contract that he is refusing to honor. And it's possibly more related to his ego than his agent. — robdphilly
- Ego ? He has an ego problem because he refuse to play for $565k, a 2 time Pro Bowler now, the most electrifying receiver in The NFL,and he has an ego problem ? Come on man !!!! You know like I know that deserves to be paid handsomely !!! — dafranchise1
- Rhymes with pace and face,, and in 2011 it is a disgrace — phillyroni
