Big games call for big players. Not for the first time this season, Zach Ertz answered the call as the Washington Commanders confirmed their playoff place under the glaring primetime spotlight.
He also made himself a ton of money along the way.
The Commanders took a chance on Ertz this offseason. His time with the Arizona Cardinals came to an abrupt halt and he spent a long time looking for another shot before signing for the Detroit Lions as an emergency option. Most analysts thought the end of his prolific career was near, but reuniting with offensive coordinator Kliff Kingsbury led to a surprising renaissance.
Ertz quickly established himself as a dependable target for rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels and a strong leadership presence within the locker room. The three-time Pro Bowler isn't getting any younger, but he knows how to get open and boasts assured, dependable hands capable of moving the chains in high-stakes moments.
With Terry McLaurin being shut down by Atlanta Falcons cornerback A.J. Terrell in Week 17, it left Daniels without his most trusted asset in the passing game. The Heisman Trophy winner turned to Ertz, hitting him for several key catches that also included the game-winning touchdown in overtime to book Washington's spot in the knockout rounds.
Zach Ertz cashed in after hitting Commanders' incentives
As it turned out, Ertz's outstanding contribution came with significant financial benefits attached. According to Adam Schefter of ESPN, the former second-round selection out of Stanford made an additional $750,000 as a result of his superb efforts.
Here's a breakdown:
- $250,000 for securing six touchdowns this season
- $250,000 for accumulating 60+ receptions in 2024
- $250,000 for gaining 600+ receiving yards throughout the campaign
Not bad for someone whose best days were supposedly behind him.
Ertz took a selfless approach when discussing his late career rejuvenation in Washington. Instead of praising himself, he credited the welcoming environment, enhanced locker room culture, and people believing in him despite going through complications as primary reasons behind his improved fortunes.
"The past two years for me have been really tough as a player, and so just being able to come out here with people that truly believed in me, like Kliff, D.Q. has really just allowed me to be at my best again. And I've loved being a part of this team."Zach Ertz
There are several heartwarming stories from a remarkable Commanders' season in 2024. Ertz fighting back from the brink of being cast aside into a focal point of the offense is among the best.
What the future holds beyond the season for Ertz is anyone's guess. He signed a one-year deal in free agency and has done more than enough to warrant another short-term commitment if the money works for all parties. But the Commanders could decide to surge second-round rookie Ben Sinnott into a more prominent role instead.
Either way, Ertz should find employment somewhere if he wants to continue his playing journey. It would take a brave decision to remove him from the equation in Washington considering his rapid influence on and off the field.
The Commanders don't get into the playoffs without Ertz. He's repaid the faith shown in him and more.