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The Eagles feature a wide receiver group that includes Jeremy Maclin, Josh Huff, Jordan Matthews and Riley Cooper, but they could easily add talent and experience to the unit. Cooper and Huff had their moments in 2014, but it would serve the Eagles well to find more talent to help bolster the offense. Adding a deep threat to the lineup to go along with Maclin and Matthews would allow the quarterback to spread the ball around.
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While this is a dynamic wide receiver free agency class, the Eagles don't need to spend a lot of money to be successful. There are several quality pass catchers on the market that could be had for a cheaper salary than the likes of Dez Bryant and Demaryius Thomas. One of those options is Chargers receiver Eddie Royal.
NFL Career
A second round pick in 2008, the Virginia Tech pass catcher started his career with the Denver Broncos. As a rookie, Royal played and started in 15 games and collected 91 catches for 980 receiving yards and five touchdowns. In his second year, Royal produced 37 catches for 345 yards. He then followed that up with 59 catches for 627 yards and three touchdowns in 2010. His fourth year featured his worst production as a professional. Royal caught 19 passes for 155 yards and a touchdown.
Royal signed a three-year deal with the Chargers in 2012. He played in 10 games (two starts) that season and collected 23 catches for 234 yards and a touchdown. He experienced a renaissance in 2013 under Mike McCoy. He produced 47 catches for 631 yards and eight touchdowns. Royal caught seven passes for 90 yards and three touchdowns against the Eagles in Week 2 of that season. Last season, he played in 16 games (11 start) and compiled 62 receptions for 778 yards and seven touchdowns.
Appeal to Eagles
The Eagles missed DeSean Jackson in certain aspects last season. One of those was his ability to take the top off of the defense and make a big play. It seemed like Maclin was the only guy who could constantly make a game-changing play for the Eagles last season and that needs to improve. Royal has the ability to stretch the field as well as be a possession receiver and a returner. At 28, he could be signed to a two or three-year deal and provide a receiving threat similar to Darren Sproles in the run game.
Appeal to Royal
Who wouldn't want to play in this offense? Kelly would likely be able to get the most out of Royal's talents. He can get Royal out in space and use him as a weapon in several facets. If Royal is willing to leave San Diego, he would be hard pressed to find a more intriguing offense.