If the Eagles are looking for DeSean Jackson's "replacement," they need to look no further than to their own roster and tight end Zach Ertz.
The Eagles, of course, have added two pieces - Jeremy Maclin and Darren Sproles - to supplement the 2013 production that left with Jackson. But of their current players, Ertz has perhaps the best chance to dramatically increase his numbers now that Jackson is in Washington, especially if the second-year tight end delivers upon Eagles expectations.
"I think Zach can have a huge role," coach Chip Kelly said last week.
Improved blocking will boost his playing time, but the Eagles drafted Ertz for his pass catching. And if he follows the same curve as the game's best from the last decade, he'll play as often as Jackson or any starting receiver.
Ertz averaged 2.8-32-.56 over the final nine games of the season (including the Eagles' sole playoff game) and that included two goose eggs in Week 10 and Week 14. That equates to 6.6 fantasy points per game, which is what Martellus Bennett averaged as the #10 TE in fantasy football. With Jason Avant and DeSean Jackson gone, Ertz could play a lot in the slot. If he can take a step forward in the blocking department, it will help his overall fantasy outlook. He is currently the #11 TE off the board in the 9th round.
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