Washington Commanders

Redskins unlikely to pursue all-pro free agent Evan Mathis

Published Jun. 15, 2015 2:09 p.m. ET

foxsports

When the Eagles released all-pro left guard Evan Mathis last week, almost every other NFL team took notice. Mathis has finished as Pro Football Focus' top-rated offensive guard in three of the last four seasons. Reports have surfaced that the Washington Redskins did show initial interest in Mathis, but they have not met with his agent and they have no visit currently scheduled.

Mathis is seeking a new contract that will pay him like one of the top players at his position. Mathis has definitely been one of the most dominant players at his position over the last several years, but he has excelled in the Eagles' zone-based blocking scheme. The Redskins are moving away from the zone blocking concepts under head coach Jay Gruden and new offensive line coach Bill Callahan. They are looking to create a line full of power blockers and bigger specimens at the guard position. Mathis doesn't fit into this role.

The Redskins have invested several premium draft picks and free agent contracts to the offensive line over the last several seasons. It seems unlikely that they will be willing to pay the price tag for an aging guard who is best utilized in a primarily zone blocking scheme.

Photo Credit: Drew Hallowell/Philadelphia Eagles/Getty Images