Philadelphia Eagles: 5 Players Poised For Breakout Seasons

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May 28, 2015; Philadelphia, PA, USA; Philadelphia Eagles tight end Zach Ertz (86) during OTA

Zach Ertz

I know, last year Ertz was supposed to be a breakout player according to almost everyone, especially those that play fantasy football. But following an offseason where Ertz worked tirelessly on his blocking, it appears that 2015 will be his true breakout season. That’s not to say he didn’t have an impressive season in 2014, he did finish the season with 58 receptions for 702 yards and 3 touchdowns but Ertz is capable of more.

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Just look at the Eagles’ week 16 game against the Redskins, Ertz played the highest snap total of the season with 70 of 91 total snaps and dominated the entire game. He finished the match-up with a franchise record 15 receptions on 18 targets for 115 yards. But Ertz’ hands have never been the problem, his blocking has been what has stopped him from seeing the field in the past. But with improved technique, Ertz could very well overtake veteran Brent Celek as the team’s starting tight end in 2015.

In a recent interview on PhiladelphiaEagles.com, wide receiver Jordan Matthews said it best when discussing the Eagles’ plethora of weapons on the offensive end. But what stood out most was what he said about Ertz’ ability. “If somebody looks at Zach Ertz and says ‘oh, he’s a #2 tight end,’ That dude is not a #2 tight end, that boy can go out there and catch the rock,” Matthews said.

Ertz finished the 2014 season as Pro Football Focus’ 5th overall tight end, behind only Rob Gronkowski, Jason Witten, Greg Olsen and another young star on the rise, Travis Kelce. That’s elite company to be in and shows just how good Ertz can truly be. But Ertz was the only player in the top five with a negative pass blocking grade.

Assuming he’s improved his blocking as much as he believes he has, Ertz should be the team’s starting tight end week 1 of the upcoming season. Or even if he isn’t listed as the team’s starter, he’ll finally be receiving more snaps than Celek. Either way, watch out for Ertz in 2015…seriously, I mean it this time.

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