Zach Ertz Responds: 'Excited To See Josh Norman In New Scheme'
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- It's not like it needed any more fuel, but new Redskins cornerback Josh Norman gas lit the Philly-Washington football rivalry before the season even starts.
"Have you ever once been one of the top 20 quarterbacks in the league?" Norman said of Bradford. "Not that I remember — and you want more money? I can't wait to play him twice a year."
On Wednesday, Eagles tight end Zach Ertz took a subtle shot at Norman, who had his franchise tag rescinded by the defending NFC Champion Carolina Panthers this offseason before signing a long-term deal in Washington.
"I think everyone is excited to see him play in a new scheme," Ertz said via Eliot Shorr-Parks of NJ.com. "Whether it is going to be beneficial or detrimental."
The Panthers led the NFL with 24 interceptions last season, finished sixth in sacks, and sixth in yards allowed per game. Norman recorded four interceptions, three forced fumbles, two fumble recoveries, 18 passes defended, and scored two touchdowns reaching the first Pro Bowl of his career.
In an interview with ESPN.com, Norman declared himself the best cornerback in the world.
"He is a great player, he did some unbelievable things in Carolina," Ertz said via NJ.com. "And at the end of the day you want to go against the best players, and he is the self-proclaimed best cornerback."
This NFC East rivalry has developed over the past three seasons with DeSean Jackson going from Philly to Washington in 2014, Chris Baker's 2014 cheap shot on ex-Eagles QB Nick Foles, and Washington eliminating the Eagles from postseason contention in each of the previous two seasons.
Washington and Philly first meet in 2016 in Week 6 on Sunday, October 16th at FedEx Field.
