Ertz playing 'like it's my last year' with Eagles amid contract frustration

For the first time since reports surfaced that contract negotiations between the two sides were suspended, Zach Ertz spoke to his standing with the Philadelphia Eagles on Thursday.

The star tight end reiterated that he wants to spend the rest of his career with the Eagles, but expressed frustration that the club has been unable to work out a new deal.

"It's been frustrating at times. It's been difficult," Ertz told reporters, according to Zach Berman of The Athletic. "I said all along I want (to) be here for the long run. I don't know if for sure that feeling is mutual. I'm going to play this year like it's my last year (in Philadelphia)."

The two sides reportedly discussed an extension in August. The Eagles apparently offered a lower average annual salary than Austin Hooper's four-year, $42-million deal with the Cleveland Browns this offseason.

Ertz is signed through 2021 after inking a five-year, $42.5-million extension in January 2016. His deal also includes a team opt-out option following the 2020 campaign.

"I don't think it should be too hard to get a deal done now," he said, per NFL Network's Andrew Siciliano.

Ertz has been one of the league's most productive tight ends since entering the league. He leads all tight ends with 525 catches since 2013 and has amassed at least 70 receptions and 800 receiving yards in each campaign since 2015.

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