PHILADELPHIA — Dallas Goedert may still be in his 20s, but he has already become a veteran presence in the NFL. Entering his seventh season with the Philadelphia Eagles, who drafted him in the second round in 2018, Goedert has seen significant growth.
At 29, Goedert initially learned the ropes from Zach Ertz, his predecessor, and now finds himself mentoring younger players. During the recent Tight End University camp in Nashville, started by George Kittle, Travis Kelce, and Greg Olsen in 2021, Goedert sought advice from top players to improve his game while also sharing his knowledge with newcomers.
“It’s interesting when younger players ask me questions,” Goedert said. “I try to give them good explanations for why I do things.”
Goedert provided tips on hand placement while blocking and running routes against various coverages.
After the camp, Goedert plans to visit his hometown in South Dakota before returning to Philadelphia for training camp on July 23. The upcoming season holds particular significance for both him and the Eagles.
Injuries have plagued Goedert recently, causing him to miss multiple games in 2022 and 2023. Last season, he recorded his lowest receiving yards per game (42.1) since Ertz’s departure and scored only three touchdowns. He hasn’t played a full season since his rookie year in 2018.
“My injuries have typically kept me out for about four or five weeks,” Goedert noted. “I just want to be on the field to help the team achieve its potential.”
Goedert’s future with the Eagles is uncertain. At 29, he’s older than Ertz was when the Eagles drafted his replacement. The Eagles didn’t draft a tight end this year, but Goedert’s contract has no guaranteed money beyond 2024, making it easy for the team to move on after this season.
“I’m not worried,” Goedert said about his contract situation. “I love being in Philadelphia. I’ll give them everything I have and let things play out.”
With new offensive coordinator Kellen Moore, Goedert sees potential in the new Eagles offense.
“He’s doing a great job making the offense make sense,” Goedert said. “I think the new reads and adjustments will benefit tight ends, especially with quick plays and routes that were effective earlier in my career.”
Despite being a fourth option in a talented offense featuring A.J. Brown, DeVonta Smith, and new addition Saquon Barkley, Goedert remains optimistic.
“I’m hoping defenses focus on A.J., Smitty, and Saquon so I can get open down the middle,” Goedert joked.
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