Danny Amendola Rumors: Philadelphia Eagles Must Avoid Injury-Prone Receiver

The Philadelphia Eagles are looking to add some players that suit new head coach Chip Kelly's up-tempo offense, and while Danny Amendola may fit the bill, the Eagles would be wise to avoid him.

According to Geoff Mosher of CSNPhilly.com, the Eagles have some interest in the 27-year-old:

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They’re interested in pursuing Rams wide receiver Danny Amendola, a person with direct knowledge of the team’s free agency plans told CSNPhilly.com. Amendola, who has two 60-plus catch seasons in the past three years, is one of the NFL’s most productive slot wideouts, although he can also play outside and is an excellent return specialist.

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Amendola compiled 63 receptions for 666 yards and three touchdowns in what was an injury-plagued 2012 season. The former Rams wide receiver played in just 11 games, although he was a good producer when he was actually on the field.

There is absolutely no question that Amendola has talent.

He's a speedy and explosive slot receiver who can make big plays over the middle and is a reliable option to throw to on third down. Amendola's impressive athleticism and versatility is a great fit for Kelly's offense, so it makes sense why the Eagles are interested.

However, actually staying on the field has been an issue during Amendola's career.

In 2012 alone, Amendola dealt with a broken collarbone at the start of the season and then dealt with foot issues toward the end of the season. In 2011, Amendola didn't make it past the season-opening game before his year was cut short after dislocating his elbow.

The numerous problems Amendola has faced during his young career are troubling to say the least. It's dangerous enough to be a slot receiver playing over the middle of the field, but it's even worse if the receiver's body can't take the punishment in such a role.

Amendola is great in the slot and at making plays over the middle of the field, but it doesn't look like his body can take the toll.

On top of that, Amendola may be seeking as much as $6.1 million in a deal, per Chris Wesseling of NFL.com. That is far too much money to spend on a guy who hasn't exactly proven he can withstand a season full of big hits by opposing cornerbacks and even bigger linebackers.

Granted, Amendola could bring a high reward back for the Eagles, but the risk is just too great for the price he's seeking.

If there's any team in the NFL who knows what it is to spend money and not get much in return the past few seasons, it's the Eagles. This move could very well go down that familiar path with Amendola's injury history, so the Eagles are just better off avoiding this move altogether unless the price comes down significantly.