Report: Zach Ertz trade talks are heating up

Following several releases of long-time Eagles veterans to get under the salary cap hole, the birds now look to be shopping tight end Zach Ertz. According to Michael Silver, several teams have inquired about Ertz, and he could be dealt within the coming days. Ertz has been rumored to be on the way out for the last several months.

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Multiple teams have called the Eagles about the possibility of trading for three-time Pro Bowl TE Zach Ertz, and a deal could happen in the coming days, according to two sources familiar with the talks. @nflnetwork @AroundTheNFL

— Michael Silver (@MikeSilver) March 8, 2021

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The 30-year-old tight end has been with the Eagles for the entire duration of his eight-year career. During those eight years, Ertz solidified himself as one of the best TEs in Eagles’ history, being the primary target for former QB Carson Wentz. From 2015 until 2019, he never had a season under 800 yards receiving and eclipsed over 1,100 yards in 2018.

Ertz regressed this past season significantly with just 335 yards receiving, down from 916 the year prior and only one touchdown, both career lows. Despite this, Zach wanted a large extension among the likes of Travis Kelce and George Kittle, but Howie Roseman was unwilling. Currently, Ertz has $8.2 million due this upcoming season and only one year remaining on his contract.

While his play this past season was disappointing, several teams will likely want to see if they can bring Ertz back to form. I would be shocked if they got anything higher than a third-round pick, and a third seems pricey at that. Being able to trade Ertz will free up much-needed space for the Eagles this season and allow Dallas Goedert more freedom to grow on offense.

Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports