In the twilight of his career, Zach Ertz thought his days as an impact player in the NFL were numbered. But a trade to the Washington Commanders last offseason revitalized the veteran tight end, both physically and mentally. Now, after a stellar campaign that saw him haul in 66 catches for 654 yards and 7 touchdowns, Ertz has no intention of hanging up his cleats anytime soon.
“I’m not retiring just because I had so much fun this year,” Ertz declared emphatically on Monday as the Commanders cleaned out their lockers following a devastating NFC Championship loss to the Philadelphia Eagles. “I feel rejuvenated. I feel young. I played good football this year, so for me it’s figuring out everything going forward.”
A Perfect Fit in Washington
Ertz credits his renaissance to the culture and system in place with the Commanders. Head coach Dan Quinn and offensive coordinator Kliff Kingsbury constructed an offense tailor-made for Ertz’s skill set, featuring plenty of intermediate routes and red zone opportunities. The results speak for themselves:
- 66 receptions – most since 2019
- 654 receiving yards – highest total since 2018
- 7 touchdown grabs – tied for 3rd among tight ends
- Played in all 17 games for first time since 2018
Beyond the numbers, Ertz felt valued and empowered by the Commanders coaching staff and his teammates. “This year I felt free to go out there and be myself,” he explained. “Every day people built me up in a way that believed in me, that had confidence in me.”
Budding Chemistry with Daniels
A major factor in Ertz’s success was his instant connection with ascending quarterback Jayden Daniels. The pair routinely carved up defenses, with Ertz serving as Daniels’ security blanket in key situations. In Washington’s three playoff games, Ertz recorded 18 catches, often moving the chains on crucial third and fourth downs to extend drives.
Obviously playing with Jayden was extremely fun. I feel we’re just scratching the surface of a quarterback-tight end combination.
– Zach Ertz on his rapport with Jayden Daniels
If Ertz has his way, that mind meld with Daniels will continue to develop. While he’s set to be an unrestricted free agent in March, the 12-year pro made it clear he wants to remain in Washington long-term. “I don’t know what the future holds, but I still want to play football this year,” Ertz said.
Unfinished Business in the Nation’s Capital
Ertz’s taste of success with the Commanders left him craving more. He believes the team has a championship foundation in place and the potential to make a Super Bowl run in the near future. After so many years of personal accolades but just one title with the Eagles in 2018, the durable vet is chasing the chance at another ring.
“It’s figuring out everything going forward, and they know how I feel about this place,” Ertz said of his desire to stay with the Commanders. “This year was a year of growth on the field, off the field, a year I really loved.”
While the front office has pressing free agent decisions to make on both sides of the ball, bringing back Ertz seems like a no-brainer for a franchise on the cusp of contention. His infectious energy, leadership, and clutch playmaking ability were vital components of Washington’s 12-5 season. As quarterbacks coach Jimmy Hamilton put it simply, “Zach is the kind of guy every successful team needs.”
The Future is Bright
With Ertz enthusiastic about a return and coming off one of his most productive seasons in recent memory, all signs point to this newfound partnership between player and team continuing to flourish. If the wily vet can maintain his 2024 form, Washington’s high-octane offense will remain a force to be reckoned with.
As for Ertz, he’s not satisfied with merely proving the doubters wrong for one year. Refocused and reenergized, one of the game’s most consistent tight ends over the past decade is ready to show that his career renaissance in Washington is just getting started.
