Evan Mathis Trade Rumors: Lions showed interest, but Chip Kelly denies Eagles have ever had an offer

According to Chip Kelly, the Eagles have never once received a trade offer for veteran offensive guard Evan Mathis. Kelly said as much during a Saturday afternoon media appearance during the 2015 NFL Draft.

Kelly said that the #Eagles have never had a trade offer for Evan Mathis and he's been available for the past two years

— Eagles Insider (@EaglesInsider) May 2, 2015

Mathis has been rumored to be available ever since last offseason. The offensive lineman has reportedly been seeking a new contract.

Some thought Mathis might be dealt during the draft, but it looks like that won't be the case. So will he playing for the Eagles this season?

Asked if he expected Evan Mathis to be back, Chip Kelly said that's a question you should ask Evan.

— Jeff McLane (@Jeff_McLane) May 2, 2015

Yikes.

Earlier this offseason, Kelly said he hopes Mathis is back and that the Eagles haven't openly shopping him.

That hasn't stopped some teams from showing interest, however. According to Ian Rapoport, the Detroit Lions kicked the tires on Mathis before drafting Duke guard Laken Tomlinson in the first round.

Lions had some interest before their 1st round pick RT @Jeff_McLane: Asked if he expected Evan Mathis to be back, Chip Kelly said ask Evan.

— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) May 2, 2015

The 33-year-old Mathis is projected to be the oldest starting guard in the NFL this coming season. For now, Mathis is under contract. But it remains to be seen how this situation plays out.

UPDATE:

Deez.

— Evan Mathis (@EvanMathis69) May 2, 2015