NICK FOLES VOIDS 2019 OPTION, PER REPORT

Credit: Matthew Straubmuller

Nick Foles is one step closer to being a free agent, Duval.

---

​The Nick Foles-Philadelphia Eagles contract saga is and will continue to be, one of the most polarizing stories of the NFL offseason. 

In each of the last two seasons, Nick Foles has been the Philadelphia Eagles' back up quarterback. And in both seasons he's been forced into action due to injuries suffered by starting quarterback Carson Wentz. When Foles' number has been called for the Eagles, he's performed admirably, leading his team to a Super Bowl Championship in 2017 and a road playoff victory in 2018.  

Foles' stats over that period were impressive. In 13 games (including the playoffs) he threw 21 touchdown passes, completed 67% of his attempts, and lead the Eagles to 10 victories.  So impressive was his play, that some have speculated the Eagles should keep Foles as their starting quarterback and trade Carson Wentz. Of course, that won't happen. The Eagles used the second overall pick on Wentz in 2016, and when healthy he's been everything the Eagles had hoped for when they drafted him. 

You might ask, "why don't the Eagles just keep both quarterbacks?" 

Here's why. The Eagles had a $20 million team option to keep Foles around for 2019. Earlier today the Eagles elected to pick up that option, but due to the language of the contract, Nick Foles had the ability to buyout the Eagles for $2 million. And, unsurprisingly Foles did just that. 

Long Sleeve Jax Pocket Tee

$28.00 - $30.00

Shop

Now the Eagles have two options. Howie Roseman and company can either let Nick Foles become an unrestricted free agent or use their franchise tag on the 30-year-old quarterback. If they elect to do the latter, they'll owe Foles around $25 million. With their current salary cap situation, that doesn't seem feasible. 

If Foles does end up on the free agent market, I would expect the Jaguars to be players. Jacksonville's newly hired offensive coordinator John DeFilippo was Foles' quarterback coach in Philly during their Super Bowl run, and Foles fits what Tom Coughlin is generally looking for at the position. 

If the Eagles do end up placing their franchise tag on Foles, they'll look to trade him to one of the quarterback-needy teams. They're reportedly looking for a third round pick as compensation. The Jaguars should avoid giving up any draft capital to acquire a veteran QB. With so many needs on the offensive side of the ball, Jacksonville can't afford to lose any opportunity to add young talent via the draft. Instead, the Jaguars should sign a veteran free agent quarterback, which Foles very well may end up being. Other likely free agent options at the position include Joe Flacco, Ryan Tannehill, Tyrod Taylor, Teddy Bridgewater, Ryan Fitzpatrick, and Josh McCown. ​

What are your thoughts on the Nick Foles situation? Let us know in the comments below!

Want to stay up to date on the latest Jaguars news?
Follow Generation Jaguar on Twitter.