Veteran tight end Zach Ertz has re-signed with the Washington Commanders for another season, inking a one-year contract worth $6.25 million, with potential earnings up to $9 million. At 34 years old, Ertz remains a formidable presence on the field, particularly as a favorite target of rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels. His return is poised to bolster the Commanders' offensive lineup as they aim for a successful 2024 season.
Ertz demonstrated his reliability last season by catching 66 passes for 654 yards and seven touchdowns, marking his highest scoring reception tally since his 2018 season with the Philadelphia Eagles. Notably, all his touchdown receptions were achieved inside the red zone, underlining his effectiveness in crucial scoring situations. He ranked fourth among tight ends with 13 catches inside the 20-yard line, illustrating his critical role in the Commanders' offensive strategies.
Before joining the Commanders, Ertz spent two seasons with the Arizona Cardinals, though injuries limited him to just 17 games during that period. Despite these setbacks, he experienced a career resurgence in his first season with Washington. Ertz's prior tenure includes an impressive eight-plus years with the Philadelphia Eagles, where he set a single-season reception record for tight ends with 116 catches in 2018. His remarkable performance earned him three Pro Bowl selections before being traded to Arizona on October 15, 2021.
Throughout his career, Ertz has consistently ranked among the top tight ends in the league. Last season, he finished with the fifth-most receptions and was fourth in touchdown catches among his position peers. He also caught 26 passes on third or fourth down, ranking second only to Travis Kelce of the Kansas City Chiefs. Currently holding sixth place on the all-time receptions list for tight ends with 775 catches, Ertz is just 34 receptions away from surpassing Shannon Sharpe and moving into fifth place.
Ertz's resilience and skill have made him an invaluable asset to any team he joins. As he prepares to enter another season with the Commanders, expectations remain high for his continued contributions both on and off the field. His experience and leadership are anticipated to play a pivotal role in guiding a young quarterback like Daniels.
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