Philadelphia Eagles Sign Zach Ertz In Free Agency Reunion

Ertz put together an incredible career in his nine seasons with the Eagles from 2013-2021. He was originally drafted in the second round of the 2013 NFL Draft, pick 35.

Ertz made three Pro Bowls during his Philadelphia tenure and caught 579 passes. That number is second in all of Eagles franchise history, only ten catches behind Harold Carmichael (589).

Ertz solidified himself as the greatest TE to ever wear an Eagles uniform, and now he will get the opportunity to continue his legacy in midnight green.

Why Did The Philadelphia Eagles Need Zach Ertz?

The Eagles needed Ertz due to the lack of progression made by second-round rookie TE Eli Stowers. He looked rough in rookie minicamp and training camp, ultimately leading to initial speculation that the team may look for another TE. Stowers was placed on IR prior to week one, creating the perfect scenario for Ertz to be brought in.

Dallas Goedert was also ruled out following an injury suffered in the Eagles week two game against the Tennessee Titans. He will miss multiple weeks, emphasizing the need for another TE.

Ertz will now give the Eagles a reliable pass catcher that Jalen Hurts can trust in big moments. The now 35 year old coming off an ACL tear will not be fighting Dallas Goedert for the starting job (when healthy); he will be playing a complimentary role while being a suitable backup in case of another injury.

The Eagles did not run as many two-TE sets as many expected in week one, so it is unclear how much playing time will be in the cards immediately for Ertz. It’s important to note that Johnny Mundt, an excellent blocker at the TE position, will likely remain ahead of Ertz in snap count. He played 20 snaps (36%) in week one when Goedert was healthy.

Ultimately, the Eagles needed Ertz to give them a reliable pass catcher and a serviceable backup TE to fill in while Goedert misses time. A great low-risk high-reward signing for Howie Roseman and the Eagles.