Just a little trade humor to get you through the preseason.
Eagles veteran tight end Zach Ertz and Patriots coach Bill Belichick were seen chatting as the two teams held a joint practice on Monday. Ertz introduced Belichick to his wife — USWNT start Julie Ertz — before the two joked about one day being on the same sidelines, according to ABC 6 reporter Jamie Apody.
“I’m still going to get you some day,” Belichick told Ertz, who responded with a smile.
Belichick added, “But (Eagles GM) Howie (Roseman) wants two first round picks. AND two of my grandchildren!”
The conversation holds a little more meaning given that Ertz, 30, has been a part of trade rumors all offseason. The Patriots were also clearly prioritizing tight ends as they added Jonnu Smith and Hunter Henry in free agency.
Ertz was one of the dominant tight ends in the league before being slowed by injuries in the past couple seasons. He was also a key piece on the Eagles team that beat the Patriots in Super Bowl LII.
There were no specific reports linking the two teams in trade talks, and now the Patriots seem to have filled their need at the position for the foreseeable future.
The Patriots and Eagles will meet Thursday night in Philadelphia in each team’s second preseason game.