Philadelphia Eagles rumors: Is Zach Ertz getting traded to the Bills?

June 1st is a big day around the National Football League, a day that had an extra level of significance attached to the Philadelphia Eagles this offseason. Not only were they able to free up a little extra cap space by way of Malik Jackson’s and Alshon Jeffery’s contracts officially coming off the books, but it also provided some added clarity on who might still be interested in the likes of tight end Zach Ertz.

With other teams around the NFL also freeing up money by way of post-June 1st designated cuts and restructures, the market for an $8.5 million Pro Bowl pass-catcher starts to open up just a bit.

One of those teams that made headlines earlier this afternoon with some money maneuvering was that of the Buffalo Bills, a team who has reportedly been in the mix for Ertz earlier this offseason. By restructuring star wide receiver Stefon Diggs’ deal, the Bills were able to free up just under $8 million towards their 2021 cap. With their total available cap space now up to $11 million, it didn’t take long for people to start putting two and two together in regards to what that might mean…

Could Philadelphia Eagles TE Zach Ertz be off to Buffalo?

Like previously stated, the Bills had expressed interest in Ertz earlier this offseason, and the timeline for acquiring such a player absolutely makes sense. The Bills are in full-on “win now” mode at the moment following their AFC Championship run, and pretty much have to push all their chips into the middle of the pot if they want to continue to hang with the likes of Kansas City.

More from Section 215

• 4 Eagles on the Bubble Who Have Clinched Their 53-Man Roster Spots
• Best Pennsylvania Sportsbook Promos: Win $650 GUARANTEED Bonus PLUS $100 off NFL Sunday Ticket
• 3 Punters the Eagles Must Target to Replace Arryn Siposs
• Cowboys Trey Lance Trade Proves How Screwed They Are With Dak Prescott
• Devon Allen Took Britain Covey’s Job on Eagles

With teams like Indianapolis, Cleveland, Miami, and even New England potentially in line to take significant steps forward in 2021, you could easily make the argument that Buffalo is starting to feel the pressure.

Additionally, quarterback Josh Allen is the type of player who would likely benefit from the safety blanket style of player that is Zach Ertz. Former Philadelphia Eagles QB Carson Wentz had a lot of success targeting Ertz underneath when the deep ball wasn’t there, a style of play that Allen could very easily replicate.

For what it’s worth, there’s been nothing outside of pure speculation to suggest that the Bills are nearing a push for Ertz, however, the Bills did jump to the front of the odds list when it comes to Ertz’ future destination. The Eagles have failed to move their disgruntled tight end thus far due to a too-high asking price, and there’s little to suggest that Howie Roseman has begun lowering his demands.

Last time I checked, Roseman wanted a third/fourth round pick prior to the 2021 Draft, an asking price that no team was willing to meet when it was all said and done.

However, with training camp on the horizon and reports dropping that Ertz doesn’t plan to show up, it’s possible that Roseman and the Eagles start to give into their desperation. As much as having Ertz around for the 2021 season would be helpful for the likes of Jalen Hurts and Nick Sirianni, keeping a publicly annoyed veteran on the roster could very easily prove to be a needless distraction.

Nothing is official by any means, but definitely keep an eye on the the Bills when it comes to their interest in Ertz.