The Indianapolis Colts decided to take a gamble on Carson Wentz, sending two draft picks to the Philadelphia Eagles with hopes they can try to resurrect the QB’s career. If Colts GM Chris Ballard and head coach Frank Reich are in the business of giving people second chances, tight end Zach Ertz could also be worth the trouble after a poor 2020 season.
Ertz caught just 36 passes in 11 games last year, totaling 335 yards and one touchdown in a season that tested his patience. After eight years in Philly, Ertz is starting to see that the Eagles are intent on turning the page, which could lead to him getting shipped out of town.
In addition to Ertz’s decline, Philadelphia appears to have already found some dynamite replacements. Not only is former second-round pick Dallas Goedert starting to come into his own as one of the league’s best receiving tight ends, but the Eagles could potentially use the No. 6 pick in the 2021 NFL Draft on star Florida tight end Kyle Pitts. The writing is on the wall.
Ed Kracz of Sports Illustrated is reporting that the Colts and Seattle Seahawks have been discussing a potential Ertz trade with the Eagles. What better way to make Wentz comfortable in his new digs than by adding his favorite target in Ertz?
From NFL Now on @nflnetwork: With Carson Wentz headed to the #Colts, I believe #Eagles TE Zach Ertz will also be headed somewhere else eventually, though nothing is imminent on that front. pic.twitter.com/VbelRfHeq7
— Mike Garafolo (@MikeGarafolo) February 19, 2021
Could Zach Ertz help Carson Wentz on the Colts?
Reich’s offenses, as evidenced during his time in Philly, likes to feature the tight end prominently in the passing game. However, Indy’s three tight ends last year were Jack Doyle, a two-time Pro Bowler that’s on the decline by the day, Mo Alie-Cox, a former basketball player, and Trey Burton, who caught just 28 passes.
If the Colts were willing to write off 2020 as a fluke for Wentz, shouldn’t they do the same for Ertz? After all, prior to 2020, Ertz had recorded at least 75 receptions and 816 yards in each of the last five seasons. Away from the chaotic mess Philly has become, Ertz could rediscover his old form in Indy and give the Colts a much-needed upgrade at tight end.
Ertz still has plenty left in the tank, and the Colts have clearly shown a willingness to make some trades in order to take advantage of a weak division. Could this lead to an Ertz-Reich reunion?
Whenever Wentz found himself under pressure, he would always look for No. 86 over the middle of the field. If Reich wants to get Wentz’s mojo back, perhaps getting his former favorite target is a crucial first step.