Fansided

Eagles QB Nick Foles compared Zach Ertz to Rob Gronkowski

Jan 4, 2014; Philadelphia, PA, USA; Philadelphia Eagles tight end Zach Ertz (86) celebrates scoring a touchdown pass from Nick Foles during the fourth quarter against the New Orleans Saints during the 2013 NFC wild card playoff football game at Lincoln Financial Field. The Saints defeated the Eagles 26-24. Mandatory Credit: Howard Smith-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 4, 2014; Philadelphia, PA, USA; Philadelphia Eagles tight end Zach Ertz (86) celebrates scoring a touchdown pass from Nick Foles during the fourth quarter against the New Orleans Saints during the 2013 NFC wild card playoff football game at Lincoln Financial Field. The Saints defeated the Eagles 26-24. Mandatory Credit: Howard Smith-USA TODAY Sports

When you think of an All-Pro tight end, you probably think Rob Gronkowski of the New England Patriots. Sure,  he’s struggled with injury in recent years but when healthy, Gronk is a beast on the gridiron.

More from NFL

That’s something Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Nick Foles is well aware of considering Rob Gronkowski was not only a teammate of his during their days at the University of Arizona, but he was one of his main passing targets when the two shared the field.

Needless to say, Nick Foles comparing anybody to Rob Gronkowski would be quite the admission, though it’s exactly what he did when describing his current Philadelphia Eagles tight end Zach Ertz.

Citing their unique ability to stretch the field and amazing hands, Foles hinted that Ertz reminds him of Gronk.

It may sound a little off the wall at first, but do keep in mind from a physical standpoint, Zach Ertz out-shined Gronk in terms of Pro Day numbers. That said, it’s still all about skills and it’s difficult to compare a Pro Bowl tight end against somebody who is still attempting to break through in the NFL.

Despite that, there’s no denying Zach Ertz’s talent and assuming he continues to progress, with his natural ability and physical gifts it’s difficult to imagine we won’t be talking about the Philadelphia Eagles tight end as an elite player at the position for many years to come.

He stands to cash in heavily this season thanks to Chip Kelly’s pass-happy offense.