Philadelphia Eagles general manager Howie Roseman and tight end Zach Ertz got into what was described as a “heated discussion,” last week after practice, according to NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport Sunday morning.
“Late after one practice this week, Zach Ertz and Howie Roseman got into it,” Rapoport said. “A very heated discussion, I’m told. One that was witnessed by several players. An airing of grievances of sorts, with some of that frustration coming right out into the open.”
That’s not exactly a promising development for those rooting for an Ertz contract extension as this suggests negotiations have gone south.
Ertz is under team control through the 2022 season where he’ll make $6.6 million this year and $8.25 million in 2021. The Eagles have a $1.7 million club option it could pick up in 2022.
The deal likely won’t get that far, though, as Ertz was perceived to be in line for the next big tight-end contract extension after George Kittle of the San Francisco 49ers and Travis Kelce of the Kansas City Chiefs received sizable deals.
Ertz has made it known that he wants to spend his entire career with the Eagles, but his faith in the organization and Roseman already looked to be wavering after speaking with the media earlier this week.
“I think you guys know me over the years. I’m kind of an emotional guy when it comes to football. I kind of play with my heart as much as I can. Obviously it’s been frustrating at times, it’s been difficult. I said all along I want to be here for the long run. I don’t for sure know if that feeling is mutual but I know I’m going play this year like it is my last year, and I’m gonna leave everything I possibly have in the tank for this team and the city. It’s what this city deserves, nothing less,” he said. “So I’m going into this year that I’m gonna leave it all out there, whatever happens, happens. I’ll let the details be with my agent and Howie. But I’m gonna do everything I can to give the city what it deserves and that’s everything I possibly have even if it means playing with that lacerated kidney whatever it takes to win football games and do whatever I can to kind of leave a mark on this team and the city.”
Rapoport’s report, though indicates hat Roseman isn’t too keen on getting the ball rolling to secure Ertz for the long haul.
