RB Mathews cut by Eagles after being medically cleared

Aug 15, 2017 - 7:29 PM Running back Ryan Mathews was released by the Philadelphia Eagles on Tuesday, shortly after being medically cleared to practice.

Mathews has missed the entire offseason while recovering from neck surgery. He sustained a herniated disk in his neck during a 24-19 win over the New York Giants on Dec. 22.

"We want to thank Ryan for his contributions to the Philadelphia Eagles over the past two seasons," the team said in a statement. "We spoke today and had a productive conversation about his future and the direction of our team going forward.

"First and foremost, we are glad that Ryan is healthy and has been cleared to return to football activities but given the current state of our running back position, we feel like it is best for both sides to go in a different direction. We wish him all the best as he continues his career."

Mathews was entering the final season of a three-year contract he signed with the Eagles. The 29-year-old was scheduled to make a base salary of $4 million in 2017.

He rushed 155 times for 661 yards and eight touchdowns in 13 games in 2016 for the Eagles, who signed LeGarrette Blount in the offseason. Blount set career highs in carries (299), rushing yards (1,161) and rushing touchdowns (18) last season with the New England Patriots.

Philadelphia also has fellow running backs Darren Sproles, Donnel Pumphrey and Wendell Smallwood on the roster.