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Danny Watkins time as a Philadelphia Eagles player may have run its course. He has failed to really stand out in any of the preseason games and has not pushed starter Todd Herremans at all for the starting right guard job.
Another thing Watkins has working against him is his lack of versatility. Right now, he is strictly a guard and head coach Chip Kelly has preached that versatility. In an offensive lineman’s case, an ability to play tackle or guard is vital in playing a key role as a reserve lineman. It is officially time to label Watkins a first-round bust.
He was a first-round pick at guard that was said to be ready to play in the league from day one and have All-Pro potential. This has not panned out for the now-veteran lineman. At 29 and in only his fourth year, he is certainly on the old side for someone with relatively little experience.
Remember, this is not a Kelly pick. Watkins was a guy that former head coach Andy Reid and former offensive line coach Howard Mudd selected to fit into their scheme. Kelly was mum at his final preseason press conference about Watkins’ chance at making the roster, citing he is strictly a guard. This is probably the death knell for Watkins.
Kelly has a few other players such as Allan Barbre, Matt Tobin and the currently injured Dennis Kelly that are swing guys that can play tackle and guard. I believe for this reason, those three have already passed Watkins on the depth chart.
It is time to say goodbye to Watkins for good this time.
