Commanders Veteran Emerging as Unselfish Leader 'For Everyone'
The Washington Commanders have made it clear this offseason that they're looking to contend for division and conference titles as soon as possible in the coach Dan Quinn era.
Along with drafting LSU quarterback Jayden Daniels with the No. 2 overall pick, the team also added some key veterans like running back Austin Ekeler and linebacker Bobby Wagner.
Joe Camporeale-USA TODAY Sports
These additions have highlighted Washington's offseason while simultaneously overshadowing a signing that could prove to be one of the NFL's more underrated moves by season's end.
The Commanders signed veteran tight end Zach Ertz to a one-year, $3 million deal in March after he spent three seasons with the Arizona Cardinals. A former NFC East rival of Washington from his time with the Philadelphia Eagles, the one-time Super Bowl champion has already proven to be a valuable leader this offseason, as his impact has stretched beyond just the tight end room.
“That’s the first thing about Zach that he’s seen what Kliff expects from the offense, and he’s not a selfish guy, he wants to help everyone out," Washington tight end Cole Turner said on "The Sports Junkies” of 106.7 The Fan in Washington, D.C. "It’s been really fun to play with him. Me and Zach have become friends in just a few months of knowing each other; he’s a very personable guy and a guy that goes out of his way and wants to see the team win.
“It’s been great having him around. Not just for the tight ends, but for everyone. He’s one of the leaders on the team, for sure.”
Ertz suffered a torn ACL during the 2022 campaign before dealing with a quadriceps injury this past season.
In 28 regular-season games with Arizona, the veteran posted 130 catches for 1,167 yards and eight touchdowns.
If he can put together a fully-healthy season with Washington at age 33, Daniels will have a major security blanket to throw to on offense.