The thought crossed Zach Ertz’s mind in late 2023, while he was football-free and recovering from knee surgery. He wasn’t ready to retire, but he had doubts.
“Are you still the same player?” he pondered to himself.
Ertz not only proved he was, but he’s now one step away from competing for another championship.
The seasoned tight end is returning to Philadelphia this weekend to face the Eagles in the NFC title game (noon ET on FOX and the FOX Sports app) as a key member of the Washington Commanders’ potent offense. It’s either Ertz or his former team going to the Super Bowl.
“When the whistle blows, it’s not about the nine years I spent there; it’s about making plays for this team,” Ertz said. “I’m not carrying a chip on my shoulder or trying to prove anything. I just want to be the best version of myself.”
Ertz, at 34, has been in excellent form in recent months, reigniting his passion for football under coach Dan Quinn and offensive coordinator Kliff Kingsbury, whom he knew from his time in Arizona. Working alongside rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels has been beneficial.
“Playing with a quarterback like Jayden has been a huge help,” Ertz acknowledged.
Daniels targeted Ertz almost as much as his No. 1 wide receiver Terry McLaurin this season, forming a productive connection with 66 completions for 654 yards and seven touchdowns. They continued their success in the playoffs.
“A tight end can be a quarterback’s best friend,” Daniels remarked. “Having Ertz, who has seen a lot in this league, has been invaluable in certain situations.”
Ertz’s concerns about his future arose after he tore ligaments in his knee in 2022, ending his first complete season with the Cardinals, where Kingsbury was the coach.
The right opportunity arrived in March when Adam Peters, the new GM of the Commanders, hired Quinn and Kingsbury. Since then, Ertz has seen a resurgence in his career.
“It gave me the chance to rediscover my love for the game and enjoy the process again,” Ertz reflected. “Being around people who know how to utilize me has allowed me to perform at my best. It has exceeded my expectations.”
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Reporting by The Associated Press.