Commanders Ink Tight End Zach Ertz: What Impact Can He Bring to Washington’s Offense?
The Washington Commanders made their first move in free agency by signing tight end Zach Ertz to a one-year contract worth up to $5 million on Wednesday. Although he may not be the dominant force he once was while playing for the Philadelphia Eagles, Ertz brings considerable value to a team that has struggled to generate production from the tight end position. In 2023, Ertz appeared in seven games for the Arizona Cardinals, amassing 27 receptions for 187 yards and a touchdown before being released.
Ertz spent the majority of his career with the Eagles before being traded to the Cardinals. During his time in Arizona, particularly under the guidance of Commanders offensive coordinator and former Cardinals head coach Kliff Kingsbury, Ertz experienced a resurgence. In 2021, he recorded 56 catches for 574 yards and three touchdowns in 11 games. However, his 2022 season was cut short due to a torn ACL and MCL in Week 10 after tallying 47 receptions for 406 yards and four touchdowns in 10 games.
Although Ertz, now 33, may not be at his peak, his reliability as a target for Washington’s quarterbacks remains valuable. A consistent tight end can significantly benefit a quarterback, and Ertz’s familiarity with Kingsbury is a positive sign for both him and the Commanders.
The Commanders have long sought a dependable tight end, and if Ertz can maintain his health and replicate his success with Kingsbury, he could fulfill the offensive needs of Washington effectively.