Watkins, a surprise pick by former coach Andy Reid, started 18 games at right guard in two seasons with the Eagles.
The Canadian played hockey and rugby in high school and had more experience as a firefighter (five years) than a football player (four) when the Eagles selected him at age 26, making him the oldest first-round pick since 1980 at that time.
Also Saturday, the Eagles released tight end Clay Harbor, safety David Sims, offensive lineman Michael Bamiro, linebackers Travis Long and Chris McCoy, wide receivers Greg Salas and Russell Shepard, and running back Matthew Tucker to reach the 53-man roster limit.
