If Released, Washington Could Make a Play for Ertz | Washington Football Team

By Adam Aniba

Washington heads into training camp with many new faces, particularly on offense. Eight year veteran Logan Thomas looks to add to his breakout year in 2021 (72 rec 670 yards for 6 td's) and 4th rd draft selection John Bates. Although Sammie Reyes has promise, he'll likely spend the year on the practice squad. The developmental prospect brings zero football game experience to the table after strictly playing basketball in HS and at Tulsa University. Recently signed journeyman Ricky Seals-Jones was added to the group with Washington being his 4th team since 2017.

Although Thomas is the clear cut TE#1, adding another talented veteran tight end couldn’t hurt. Unfortunately, this time of year there are slim pickings in the free agency market. Rumblings in Philadelphia are that 31 year old Zack Ertz will likely be released if a trade partner isn’t found soon.

The speculation has only grown with a possible Ertz release after he skipped the Eagles offseason program and reportedly won't return to the team facility until released or traded. Philadelphia has the ability to save $8.5 million by releasing the tight end with a post June 1st release with a trade still remaining an option, albeit unlikely after being on the trade block for months.

*Career- 117 games (82 starts) 561 rec 6078 yards 10.8 yards per ref 36 td’s

Why Ertz Makes Sense

Washington currently has $17.198 mil in available CAP space, after signing their draft picks in addition to recent free agent signings, LT Charles Leno Jr and FS/CB Bobby McCain. (CLICK names for articles) It’s expected that there'll be a market for Ertz, but a $6 mil-$8 mil annual payday seems unlikely at this late stage of the offseason. The veteran tight end hasn’t missed more than 2 games in a season, until the 2020 season (11 games in ‘20). This should be a "prove it" year for Ertz, who some believe is on the decline, but a 1-year incentive laden deal in the $4 million range could get it done. Ron Rivera has shown that his roster is a work in progress and the release of veteran Morgan Moses displayed his desire to improve at every position. Adding Ertz could add a new dimension to the passing game in Washington, with new quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick at the helm, but also provide another athletic and competent blocker in the run game for OC Scott Turner. If the Eagles tight end is released and the price is right, Ertz should be a target for the Burgundy and Gold. Revenge could be a powerful motivator to stay in the NFC East.

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*Photos credit Getty images*