The last update we had on Zach Ertz was a couple of weeks ago, when it looked like things might be headed in the right direction between him and the Eagles. That apparently wasn’t the case.
Philadelphia passed on adding a tight end in the draft, and the chances were starting to look better that he’d stay with the Eagles for 2021. However, Ertz was not among the players who showed up for the start of Phase 2 of Philly’s offseason program, a source told Jeff McLane of the Philadelphia Inquirer (Twitter link).
Further, McLane writes that Ertz “isn’t expected to report for the remainder of the offseason program or until his situation is resolved,” which he says means either being “traded or released.” Ertz was given permission to seek a trade about two months ago, but nothing has materialized.
Although there has reportedly been some interest, no one has been willing to meet GM Howie Roseman’s apparent asking price of a third or fourth-round pick. We’re now in the middle of a stalemate. Ertz, who will turn 31 in November and is coming off a down year, is entering the final year of his contract.
2020 was a big disappointment, but he made three straight Pro Bowls from 2017-19 and has consistently been one of the league’s better tight ends for a while now. We should have another update on him soon, and as of right now it appears unlikely he’ll be catching passes from Jalen Hurts this season.
whatever. they still shouldnt get rid of him
They should if he refuses to play.
he wolnt after the 2020 he had
DarkSide830 –
I’m not so sure his poor statistical season was entirely his fault. I think the Eagles, their odd decision making, and possibly some coaches’ beefs with the player may have played a rather significant role. Along with the team having another quality option in their pocket. I think there’s a few quality seasons left in Ertz’ tank. Almost reminds me of the Marcus Allen situation with Oakland way back, although on a smaller scale. Of course, I could be way off base with all of this…it’s just the feeling i’m getting
Was kind of hoping the Bengals would have went after him …he would be a good fit
Trade him for Jordan Hicks.
Eagles could do with the upgrade/addition to the defence. Plus already have Goedert as a ready replacement. Cards are shopping Hicks and have good depth at LB already. They have a loaded offence but don’t have much at TE. Ertz would be a good drop off safety blank TE for Murray.
I think his spouse has AZ connections .. but I read that both teams may wait until June 1 to make a deal for salary cap reasons.
Eagles should be all over Hicks ..
The Cards are buying up as many players as they can, Bucs-style (and Rams in recent years). It seems like their type of move.
Ertz could fit in a few places, but his lack of blocking ability limits his landing spots a bit. I’m not saying that he’ll end up in any of the following places, but Green Bay, New Orleans, or Arizona could all use him. All of these teams have blocking tight ends on the roster that use for that propose, and instead roster a starter who is used near exclusively as a receiver.
The Jets should get him. He would be a great weapon for Wilson and his experience will help Wilson stay calm by being that reliable presence on the field.
Just release him. Clearly he doesn’t want to play for the Eagles and he’s turning into a cancer for the organization
Been a very trying year for the organization and many of the players, but calling him a “cancer” is just plain wrong IMO.
Polish Hammer –
I agree…jawn is way off base on that one
“Cancer” might be the most overused term in football.
Trading him for Hicks sounds logical except Hicks will probably just get injured like he always does in an Eagles uniform. Releasing him doesn’t help with a 7.7 dead money hit. Unless the organization told him he would be playing less, I’m shocked he’s doing this. He could still produce. Last season was no good season for any eagle on offense except maybe Miles but they refused to use him.
Ertz is no longer the player he once was, but about 8 teams would get an instant upgrade if they’d offer up that 4th round pick.
Many can’t afford his salary, let alone justify that + a 4th. Bad year to be trying to trade guys with large cap hits, simple as that.
Obviously he had his worst season of his career last year. It was also his least utilized year as well. Even though both of those facts are true, he still averaged nearly 10 yds/catch. Philadelphia shot themselves in the foot not extending him earlier.
Ertz wants a big contract. No one is going to give him one. Maybe he thinks the Jags will spend money foolishly on him? He’d be lucky to get 8.5M from a team.
Naw they got Tebow now…