Former Eagles 2nd-Round Pick Retires After Sudden Release

Philadelphia, PA – May 9, 2025 – A former Philadelphia Eagles star has hung up his cleats. Days after a sudden release from the Carolina Panthers’ practice squad, the veteran announced his retirement, closing a decade-long NFL journey.

Jordan Matthews, a second-round pick in 2014, was cut Thursday, per The Athletic’s Joe Person. The move ended his bid to extend his career as a tight end. “It’s time to hang ‘em up,” he posted on X, thanking Philly fans.

Matthews dazzled early with the Eagles. In 2014, he recorded 67 catches, 872 yards, and 8 touchdowns. His 2015 season soared: 85 receptions, 997 yards, and 8 scores. His 6-foot-3, 212-pound frame was a matchup nightmare.

Traded to the Buffalo Bills in 2017 for Ronald Darby, Matthews missed Philly’s Super Bowl LII triumph. He played 10 games before landing on injured reserve. Stints with the New England Patriots (cut in 2018), Eagles (2018-2019), and San Francisco 49ers (2021-2022) followed, but his spark faded.

Matthews’ final chapter with the Panthers saw him switch to tight end. Over two seasons, he appeared in 5 games, logging no catches or targets, stuck on the practice squad. His last NFL reception came in 2019 with the Eagles.

“Philly’s my heart,” Matthews told The Inquirer. “I gave everything.” Fans flooded X, one writing, “Jordan’s legacy lives in Philly!” His 225 catches, 2,704 yards, and 22 touchdowns with the Eagles endure.

Current Eagles stars A.J. Brown and Dallas Goedert saluted Matthews. “He set the standard,” Brown said. Howie Roseman’s 2014 draft gem helped ignite the Philly Special Era, even as Zach Ertz’s Commanders challenge Philly’s reign.

Matthews retires as the Eagles chase Super Bowl LX. With Saquon Barkley’s 2,005 yards and Jalen Hurts’ fire, his legacy inspires. A new path begins, but Philly’s love remains.