Packers: Why trading for Zach Ertz would’ve been a mistake
The Packers could’ve traded for Zach Ertz.
Once again, strengthening the offense before the trade deadline is something for Green Bay Packers general manager Brian Gutekunst to consider.
One option could’ve been to trade for Philadelphia Eagles tight end Zach Ertz and, before Ertz got injured, it could’ve become a reality.
According to Ed Kracz of Eagle Maven for Sports Illustrated, the Packers were one of two teams that made an offer for Ertz before he was placed on injured reserve.
Well, that’s quite significant.
It shows Gutekunst is in the market for more talent on offense.
It’s understandable why the Packers would have interest. He’s a talented tight end who could help the Packers offense. The Philadelphia Eagles have made a bad start to the season, so it’s possible they may have considered trading him away. Ertz is currently dealing with an ankle injury which could keep him out around a month.
Trading for Ertz would’ve been a mistake for Packers
The fact the deal didn’t go through is possibly good news.
Ertz has been a phenomenal talent throughout his career. Healthy and at his best, there’s no doubt Ertz would be a huge addition to Green Bay’s offense. However, there are a few reasons why this deal could’ve backfired.
First is Ertz’s contract. According to Spotrac, Ertz has a cap hit of $12.48 million this season and $12.47 million next year. Cutting him in the offseason would still give the Packers a dead cap hit of over $7 million. No thank you.
Next to consider is that it’s possible Ertz’s best football is behind him. In six games this season, he’s put up 178 yards and a touchdown, averaging a career-worst 7.4 yards per catch. It’s hardly game-changing numbers. For comparison, Robert Tonyan has 230 yards and five touchdowns this season.
And that brings us to the final point. Yes, the Packers should look to strengthen the offense if they can, and the price is right, but they don’t need Ertz. At his best, would he be the Packers’ top tight end? Yes, but that’s assuming he returns to form.
Tonyan has stepped up this year while the Packers have high hopes for second-year Jace Sternberger.
With Ertz getting injured, we can forget about a potential trade for him. However, this does perhaps give us an idea of Gutekunst’s mindset approaching the trade deadline. It shows he’s active and open to bringing in more talent on offense.