Zach Ertz wants to stay with the Philadelphia Eagles.
Ertz, 30, saw his role diminished in favor of Dallas Goedert in 2020, and rumors swirled throughout the Eagles' tumultuous season that the veteran tight end would eventually be traded.
In 11 games this season, the three-time Pro Bowler had 36 receptions, 335 yards, and one TD — all career-lows. The 26-year old Goedert emerged to lead Philly tight ends with 46 catches, 524 yards, and three TDs.
Plus, the Eagles need to clear about $70 million in cap space before next season, meaning a handful of veterans from the Super Bowl LII-winning squad may see their time in the City of Brotherly Love come to an end (including QB Carson Wentz).
Despite the trade speculation and decreased opportunities, Ertz made it crystal clear that he wants to remain with the only franchise he's ever played for, however unlikely that may be.
“My time in Philadelphia has been the best experience I've ever had,” Ertz said, via NFL Network's Mike Garafolo. “I want to be here. I don't know what's going to happen next year. … I think this city is the best city to play for. I couldn't have asked for a better experience. The city means a lot to me, a lot to my family, and I'm thankful.”
Ertz has one year left on the five-year, $42.5 million deal he signed in 2016.
Retaining Ertz would cost $12.4 million against the team's cap in 2021. Consequently, Ertz would need to be open to a team-friendly restructuring of his deal in order to stay with the Eagles. If not, he should still recoup some value on the trading block.
Ertz has 561 receptions, 6,078 yards, and 36 touchdowns over eight seasons. In Super Bowl LII, Ertz had seven catches for 67 yards and a TD.
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