Former 1st-Round Draft Pick Marcus Smith Reportedly Released by Eagles

The Philadelphia Eagles have reportedly released defensive end Marcus Smith, who was the 26th overall pick in the 2014 NFL draft.

Sports Radio 94's Howard Eskin and the Philadelphia Inquirer's Jeff McLane reported Smith's release from the Eagles on Wednesday. 

Smith appeared in 37 games for the Eagles over the past three seasons, including a career high 16 in 2016, but the 25-year-old was never able to crack the starting lineup. 

Pro Football Focus' Mike Alessandrini noted Smith's overall performance grade dropped from 51.1 in 2015 to 46.2 last season and he was only able to record nine quarterback pressures in 121 pass-rush snaps in his career. 

The Eagles boast a deep and talented defensive line that includes Chris Long, Fletcher Cox, Timmy Jernigan, Brandon Graham and 2017 first-round pick Derek Barnett. 

Smith's lack of performance on the field and Philadelphia's depth on the defensive line made him an expendable piece at this stage of training camp. He's still young and could find a new home during the preseason, especially if injuries begin to pile up for teams before the regular season starts on Sept. 7.