Veteran tight end Zach Ertz demonstrates that he still has plenty left in the tank after a problematic two-year tenure with the Arizona Cardinals. Since joining the Washington Commanders, Ertz has quickly become one of Jayden Daniels’ most reliable weapons, leading the team in receptions, receiving yards, and touchdowns. The resurgence has been driven by Ertz’s desire for opportunity, health, and belief, which he felt were lacking during his time in Arizona.

Overcoming Setbacks in Arizona

Ertz’s time with the Cardinals began strongly after he was traded from the Philadelphia Eagles in 2021, but injuries and instability within the organization led to a decrease in statistics. Despite returning in 2023, the three-time Pro Bowler suffered a significant knee injury in 2022, and he acknowledges that he may have rushed back too quickly.

“Obviously, the past two years were extremely difficult in Arizona,” Ertz told RG in a one-on-one interview on behalf of his and his wife Julie’s partnership with Russell Stover Chocolates. “Just from a health standpoint, I hurt my knee two years ago pretty significantly. Last year, I probably rushed back a little too quickly. In Arizona, there was so much turnover from the coaching staff to the quarterback not being there.”

The absence of star quarterback Kyler Murray and lack of consistency in leadership made it harder for Ertz to recover his Pro Bowl form. Ertz left the Cardinals due to the arrival of new head coach Jonathan Gannon and the transition of the roster.

A Rejuvenated Role in Washington

With the Commanders, Ertz found a stable environment and a young quarterback who trusted him as a go-to option, which gave him a fresh start.

“It was the experience of mentally, physically, emotionally, just being able to have an opportunity to go to the Commanders to people who believed in me again,” Ertz said. “I never doubted my ability, I never doubted my ability to make an impact on a team and a game.”

On the field, Ertz’s confidence has translated into a strong relationship with Daniels, who serves as a safety net for the rookie quarterback. His ability to find weak spots in defenses and make clutch catches has stabilized Washington’s passing attack in critical situations.

Proving He’s Still Got It

Ertz realizes that at 33, he’s not the young, dominant tight end who helped guide the Eagles to a Super Bowl title in 2017. His lack of youth is made up for by his veteran savvy, leadership, and unwavering belief in his abilities. His performance in Washington confirms his ability to contribute significantly and reinforces his resilience after a tough stretch in Arizona. The veteran tight end may be set for another impactful season as Daniels grows and Ertz solidifies himself as a key piece in the Commanders’ offense. This time, he is doing it with a team that has genuine faith in him.