Philadelphia Eagles: Sidney Jones, Rasul Douglas highlight cut day releases
The Philadelphia Eagles made surprise releases on cut day.
On Friday, the Philadelphia Eagles gave a contact extension to Craig James, a former practice squad member who made his way to the active roster in 2019. James had a strong camp and earned himself an extension through the 2021 season. This move led to rumors speculating that either Sidney Jones or Rasul Douglas would not make it on the 53-man roster.
These rumors would turn out to be true, but the outcome was different than many expected.
The Eagles have officially released both Sidney Jones and Rasul Douglas Saturday afternoon, prior to the 4 PM roster deadline. Jones was the first cut to be announced, with Douglas following right after.
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It comes as a bit of a surprise that the Eagles were willing to cut ties with both cornerbacks and not hold on to at least one of them. There were also rumors circling that the Eagles were trying to trade one of the two before ultimately releasing them. Whether a trade or cut, it is still unfortunate to see them go, as both were high draft picks in what is already turning into a disappointing 2017 draft class.
Jones was a second-round pick that had a first-round grade before suffering an Achilles injury at his pro day. At the time, he was considered a long-term steal being selected in the second round. His ballhawk skills and ability to break passes up are what regarded him as the best cornerback coming out of Washington. Unfortunately, he has not been able to stay on the field enough to keep his roster spot, as he has played in 22 out of 48 games in three years.
Douglas was another key pick, a third-round selection out of West Virginia. His large frame and strength in press coverage is what gave the Eagles hope when he was drafted. It was always floated around that Douglas should try and make the move to safety, but this did not happen. He lacked in speed and got beat on a consistent basis by opposing receivers, which played a part in his release.
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It’s disappointing that both Jones and Douglas were not able to put it together in Philadelphia. Whether it be injuries or disappointing play, these are two players that eventually became big misses for the Philadelphia Eagles. Hopefully, they find their footing and get another opportunity somewhere else. It’s just unfortunate it won’t be in Philadelphia.