Cole’s Latest: Foles, Jets, Mathieu, Nelson

Let’s take a quick look at the latest reporting from Jason Cole of Bleacher Report, who touched on a number of topics today in a series of videos…

• The Rams hope to trade quarterback Nick Foles before the beginning of the 2016 season, according to Cole. Los Angeles has plenty of quarterback depth after drafting Jared Goff first overall and re-signing restricted free agent Case Keenum, and Foles looks to be the odd man out. After drawing trade interest at draft time, Foles is sitting out OTAs in order to register his displeasure with the Rams. Because Los Angeles has already paid Foles his guaranteed $6MM roster bonus, an acquiring club would only be the hook for his $1.75MM base salary, not an exorbitant price for a backup quarterback. The Jets, per Cole, have not inquired on Foles’ availability.
• Harrison Smith‘s extension with the Vikings will pay him an average of $10.25MM per season, which means Cardinals defensive back Tyrann Matheiu could target a figure above $11MM annually, Cole reports. Recent reports have indicated that the two sides are closing in on a long-term deal, and negotiations have been described as “smooth.” Speaking with Darren Urban of AZCardinals.com today, Matheiu said he “isn’t necessarily in a rush” to sign a new contract, but is hopeful that a pact can be hammered out eventually.
• The Packers will be especially safe with receiver Jordy Nelson as he recovers from an ACL injury, and the pass-catcher won’t face any defenders until training camp at the earliest, per Cole. Nelson downplayed the severity of Green Bay’s cautious efforts, however, saying that he could play if a regular season was occurring this week.