Philadelphia Eagles: Spend-happy Patriots could boost potential Ertz trade

When it was reported that the Philadelphia Eagles‘ efforts to trade disgruntled tight end Zach Ertz had proven unsuccessful thus far, many felt a flat out release was on the horizon. Reporters had identified that Howie Roseman and the Eagles were asking for a third or a fourth round pick back in return, but that zero teams had bitten just quite yet.

Considering the fact that Ertz carries an $8+ million salary in 2021, and that he also seems fed up playing in Philadelphia, the idea that the Eagles could keep him around for another season seems extremely unlikely. If a trade partner is unable to be found, releasing the former Pro Bowler would be the appropriate solution.

Zach Ertz has expressed a similar sentiment as well, stating that he’s growing “increasingly impatient” with his borderline limbo status at the moment. One can only assume that he’d prefer to start negotiating with teams in free agency if that’s the route the Eagles end up moving.

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However, after a busy first day of spending by New England in free agency, the market for a top-tier tight end has developed somewhat favorably for the Philadelphia Eagles. Jonnu Smith was snatched up by the Patriots for $50 million, followed by Hunter Henry signing for $37.5 million.

The two biggest name tight ends free agency – both off the board in less than 48 hours.

Not only does this create a void of talent at the TE position this offseason, but it also makes Ertz’ $8.25 million salary look far more reasonable on the open market. Smith and Henry are both making $12.5 million per year, and one could easily make the argument that Ertz is a better talent than both players.

The Philadelphia Eagles could still end up trading Zach Ertz.

The Bills were reportedly in the mix for Rob Gronkowski prior to him re-signing with Tampa Bay, and the Chargers are now without a starting TE following the departure of Henry in free agency. Both teams could realistically come calling for Ertz now.

Zach Ertz obviously had a down year in 2020 compared to his previous standards, but he’s still just 30 years old, and would be fairly enticing to a team looking for a primary pass-catcher underneath.