Zach Ertz's time with the Washington Commanders ended on a sour note. However, the veteran tight end is not planning to throw in the towel on his NFL journey just yet.
The Commanders haven't completely closed the door on Ertz returning. They have also moved on after signing Chig Okonkwo in free agency. He's the new pass-catching option with more athletic upside. As for the three-time Pro Bowler? He's working his way back from a gruesome torn ACL sustained mid-air against the Minnesota Vikings.
Most thought that would be the end of Ertz's career. He's not getting any younger, and injuries like this could signal deep trouble. Instead of wallowing, the former Stanford star has tackled his rehabilitation with ruthless aggression, eager to get another opportunity somewhere in 2026.
Zach Ertz fighting for another chance as Commanders move forward with Chig Okonkwo
Ertz is under no illusions. He's been around the league a long time. He'll know how his situation is probably being perceived in front offices. The once prolific pass-catcher is looking for a chance and nothing more. But he's confident of taking advantage if the phone does ring.
"It’s just doing everything I can to get back to my best because I felt like I was playing really good football before I got hurt.
"I’m going in with eyes wide open. I’m not going in with a lot of expectation. If I was a team, I probably wouldn’t expect me, based on the injury, based on my age — 'Hey, this is our Week 1 starter.' But I do think if I can get back to myself, that I’m still that same guy."
This is similar to the situation Ertz found himself in before joining the Commanders in 2024 free agency. Another opportunity soon followed his departure from the Arizona Cardinals. He signed for the Detroit Lions in the playoffs but didn't make an impact. Things looked bleak, but Washington thought he still had something left in the tank.
Ertz repaid this faith. He was a massive asset to quarterback Jayden Daniels during his rookie campaign for the ages. He remained consistent in difficult circumstances last season before disaster struck. His leadership in the locker room helped spearhead Washington's renaissance, so the risk to bring him on board was a shrewd one.
What the future holds for Ertz is unclear. Much will depend on his timeline before getting cleared for football activities. After that, it'll be a case of proving his worth to any interested suitors, hoping they will take the plunge. His previous accomplishments need no introduction, but this is a what have you done for me lately league.
All Ertz can do is keep working hard and hope another chance comes. Everything after that is unfortunately out of his hands.
Add us as a preferred source on Google