Eagles Guard Evan Mathis to Have Ankle Surgery

Eagles left guard Evan Mathis is likely out until training camp after undergoing ankle surgery. The surgery is described as "minor," and was done to address "swelling and discomfort" in Mathis' ankle.

Mathis initially injured his ankle in a Thursday night game against the Bengals, early in the second half and got a re-tape before returning - however, the Eagles, using caution pulled him out in favor of Danny Watkins.

Mathis started every game in 2012 and graded out as the best guard in the NFL by Pro Football Focus and re-signed with the Eagles, inking a five-year, $25 million contract, including $7 million guaranteed.

Watkins, a former first-rounder is expected to see first-team reps at OTAs opposite right guard Todd Herremans.

Could this move be just the that helps salvage Watkins' career?

Watkins has struggled as a right guard during his NFL career, which is entering his third season, but has said he feels more comfortable playing on the left side of the line, where he he excelled as a left tackle in college.

The former starting right guard is seemingly out of a starting spot, and seemed like a candidate for release after the team drafted tackle Lane Johnson with the No. 4 overall pick, pushing incumbent right tackle Todd Herremans to right guard.

Maybe playing next to Jason Peters could be something that helps Watkins become a serviceable player, regardless, this could be his last chance to impress, and show people why he was a first round pick in the draft.