4 Commanders players who could potentially regress in 2024
By Dean Jones
Zach Ertz - Commanders TE
Zach Ertz gained widespread plaudits for his smooth integration into the Washington Commanders. Knowing the demands of offensive coordinator Kliff Kingsbury helped enormously. The veteran tight end also assumed a leadership presence within the locker room to further raise optimism.
The Commanders snapped Ertz up quickly once they decided to make Logan Thomas a salary-cap casualty. This is nothing more than a short-term solution for Washington, but general manager Adam Peters also acquired a long-term figure after taking Ben Sinnott at No. 53 overall in the 2024 NFL Draft.
Ertz is eager to impress, which is always a positive first step for established players entering their twilight career years. Kingsbury knows what the former second-round selection can do after they worked together closely on the Arizona Cardinals. His outstanding performances over early offseason workouts only whet the appetite further.
Everything looks positive regarding Ertz's contribution in 2024. At the same time, tempering expectations would be wise until we see the Pro Bowler in a competitive setting.
The exceptional pass-catcher missed a ton of football last season after his mutually agreed departure from the Cardinals. Ertz signed briefly for the Detroit Lions during the postseason but didn't feature. His previous accomplishments hold weight, but the NFL is a what have you done for me lately league.
Kingsbury should know how best to utilize Ertz at this stage of his playing journey. The Commanders hope Sinnott can establish himself quickly to take the pressure off. That's the ideal scenario that can allow Washington's offensive coordinator to pick and choose when best to use his trusted target.
Much like the situation with Austin Ekeler, rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels should benefit from Ertz's presence. He'll be a security blanket in key situations if there's still some life left in the tank. If the player regresses - which is entirely possible when one factors everything into the equation - the onus will be on Sinnott to take the mantle and ensure no momentum is lost.