The Philadelphia Eagles are reportedly interested in former Pro Bowlers Shaq Leonard and Zach Ertz. According to ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler, the Eagles may be a better fit for Ertz than Leonard. The Dallas Cowboys have been heavily linked to Leonard as well.
“We’re seeing a mini NFC East go head-to-head with a few free agents this week,” Fowler wrote in a December 2, 2023 article headlined “NFL Week 13 predictions, fantasy sleepers, key stats, buzz.” “Both the Eagles and the Cowboys are vying for linebacker Shaquille Leonard, who will likely choose between the two teams this weekend.”
“According to a few scouts I spoke with, Dallas is the best fit because he can step into the Leighton Vander Esch role.” And the Eagles are expected to be involved in a Zach Ertz reunion. After losing Mark Andrews to injury, Baltimore could be a team to keep an eye on.”
Leonard visited Dallas and Philadelphia, and the three-time Pro Bowler is expected to make a choice soon. The Cardinals released Ertz, who is now a free agent.
Dallas Goedert on Zach Ertz release:
“It’s interesting.” #Eagles pic.twitter.com/dzhcaAn3vL
— Jeff Kerr (@JeffKerrCBS) December 2, 2023
The Cardinals previously signed the veteran tight end to a three-year, $31.6 million contract. For the rest of the season, Ertz is anticipated to sign a much more team-friendly contract.
“According to a few scouts I spoke with, Dallas is the best fit because he can step into the Leighton Vander Esch role.” And the Eagles are anticipated to be involved in a reunion with Zach Ertz. Baltimore could be a club to watch after losing Mark Andrews to injury.”
“Two decorated players face key free-agent decisions.” Both former Colts’ LB Shaquille Leonard and former Cardinals’ TE Zach Ertz are free agents, and both are expected to find new homes over the next 48 hours, according to sources,” Schefter wrote on X on December 3.
“According to sources, Leonard is considering the Cowboys and Eagles, and whoever doesn’t get him may have to face him next Sunday, with Philadelphia playing at Dallas.” The Chiefs, Bills, Ravens, and Eagles have all showed interest in Ertz in differing degrees.”
“I’ve called him a bunch the past few days”
Nick Sirianni gives his pitch on why Shaq Leonard should pick the #Eagles: pic.twitter.com/UKcdvFz3kC
— Eliot Shorr-Parks (@EliotShorrParks) November 29, 2023
Ertz was drafted by the Eagles in the second round of the 2013 NFL Draft, and he spent his first nine seasons in Philadelphia. This season, Ertz had 27 receptions for 187 yards and a score in seven starts for the Cardinals. Signing Ertz would provide the Eagles insurance behind Dallas Goedert, who is out with a forearm injury.
Leonard has remained silent on his impending decision since his two free agent visits. According to Audacy’s NFL expert Brian Baldinger, Leonard is “leaning” toward signing with the Cowboys over the Eagles.
“I hear he’s leaning toward the Cowboys,” Baldinger said in a November 30 interview on 105.3 The Fan’s “GBag Nation.” “I know Eagles players who are aggressively recruiting him.” They require him. Last week, they lost Zach Cunningham. All year, they’ve been losing linebackers.
“I’m hearing he’s leaning toward the Cowboys at this point.” He’s a little reserved about this. (He) wishes to make the best decision.”
