It’s been a busy few days for the Philadelphia Eagles, but it hasn’t stopped them making another roster move. According to an official announcement from the team, Steven Daniels has been waived in favor of undrafted wide receiver Keevan Lucas.
Roster Move: #Eagles have signed WR Keevan Lucas to a three-year contract and waived LB Steven Daniels. pic.twitter.com/P1erb31TaI
— Philadelphia Eagles (@Eagles) August 12, 2017
Lucas worked out for the Eagles during their rookie minicamp and impressed during his time there but with such a crowded receiving corps, there wasn’t much wiggle room when you factor in Greg Ward Jr’s arrival.
In what was such a deep wide receiver draft class this year, it was always inevitable that some star potential would slip through the cracks. At 5’9, 192 lbs, it’s likely that Lucas is viewed as a slot receiver…which is not only coincidental given the Eagles recent blockbuster decision to trade away Jordan Matthews, but a shame, because his outside production and ability to run crisp routes is impressive.
Playing in all 12 games as a true freshman, Lucas recorded 442 yards and a score, before breaking out one year later, earning AAC honors in the process of receiving for 1,219 yards and leading the conference in touchdown receptions with 11. A torn Patella Tendon hurt his progress in 2015, but he was able to bounce back for another 1,000 yard season..and set a career high 15 touchdown receptions.
The one thing to pay attention to here is that of course, he will be working out with Dane Evans, his quarterback from Tulsa who was also signed by the Eagles after rookie minicamp. If the two can compliment each other, and push on to put on a strong display… there is every chance that the duo can boost each other’s chances of sticking to the Eagles roster, bringing having a chemistry advantage that others simply won’t have.
In order to bring in the slot receiver however, someone had to make way. Unfortunately for Steven Daniels, it means his time with the Eagles has come to an end. Formerly of Boston College, Daniels was selected in the seventh round of the 2016 NFL Draft by the Washington Redskins. However, a torn labrum would end hopes of turning heads in his rookie year.
At 5’11, 243 lbs, Daniels is a physically dominant linebacker..and built in a way that many assume would be too heavy for the position. However, his sheer strength and speed are make him an incredibly eyebrow raising prospect. In his final collegiate season, Daniels amassed 82 tackles, 16 tackles for a loss, and six sacks..playing a huge part in a Defense that topped the FBS.
The linebacker position is suddenly one of depth for the Eagles. With Joe Walker, Nate Gerry, Najee Goode, and Kamu Grugier-Hill all striving to make the roster, Daniels was left out in the cold…giving an opportunity to one more undrafted wideout.
Mandatory Credit: Steve Mitchell-USA TODAY Sports
