The Washington Commanders have re-signed another locker room leader who helped build its winning culture in 2024. According to Tom Pelissero of NFL Network, the Commanders have re-signed veteran tight end Zach Ertz to a one-year deal worth $6.25 million.
Ertz revitalized his career last season with the Commanders. The three-time Pro Bowler hauled 66 receptions for 654 yards and seven touchdowns. He became the safety net for star rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels.
He played an integral part in the development of Daniels, who won the 2024 Offensive Rookie of the Year award.
Daniels reacted to the news of Ertz re-signing with Washington.
Ertz had his most catches and yards since being traded from the Philadelphia Eagles to the Arizona Cardinals in 2021. In Arizona, his career stalled, leading to his release in November of 2023. He finished the season on the Detroit Lions’ practice squad.
Last season, he signed a one-year $3 million deal with Washington, and earned an additional $750,000 with incentives. Ertz’s signing was due to his familiarity with Commanders offensive coordinator Kliff Kingsbury, who was Ertz’s head coach during some of his time with Arizona.
Ertz led the tight end room and mentored Daniels into a breakout season. The Commanders won 12 games during the regular season and reached the NFC Championship Game before losing to the eventual Super Bowl LIX champion, the Philadelphia Eagles.
Ertz was among the roster and organization’s overhaul, which included the hiring of General Manager Adam Peters and Head Coach Dan Quinn. Now, the club is looking to build off their success. Keeping the locker room leadership that helped build their 2024 season has been a priority for the team’s brass.
Earlier this week, Washington re-signed All-Pro linebacker Bobby Wagner to a one-year deal for 2025. Wagner anchored the defense, and now the team has taken care of Ertz, giving Daniels back his safety net.
Zach Ertz will at least bridge the gap at tight end for another season. Washington traded for wide receiver Deebo Samuel earlier this month from the San Francisco 49ers. Both Ertz and Samuel will complement All-Pro wide receiver Terry McLaurin while bolstering Washington’s offense that ranked seventh in yards and fifth in points in 2024.
