Zach Ertz was terrific for the Washington Commanders in their NFC championship loss to the Philadelphia Eagles. The longtime former Eagle caught 11 passes for 104 yards against his former team. It was his first 100-yard game of the season.
From the offseason throughout the season, Ertz praised rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels. Although Daniels’ physical tools were evident, Ertz most appreciated his poise, leadership, and humble nature.
Ertz started every game for Washington and proved to be a valuable weapon for Daniels while mentoring the rookie passer and other young players.
After the loss, Ertz reflected on the season and wished he was significantly younger.
“Obviously, I’m going to be disappointed we didn’t win this one,” Ertz said. “I’ve only played in two of these NFC championship games in 12 years, so I understand how difficult it is to get here. But the thing I’ll take away is just the bond that I had, the guys that I met, playing with Jayden, you know, I wish I was 22 playing with him, had my whole career in front of me with them. So, it’s just….that’s tough. But overall, just what an amazing group of guys. Amazing coaching staff, DQ (Dan Quinn), I’ve loved every minute of being here with him. He just sets such a good foundation every day, so when times get tough, or things get tough, we just kept going back to our foundation. So I’ve loved every bit of it.”
TE Zach Ertz on the bond he developed with his Commanders teammates and QB Jayden Daniels:
“I wish I was 22 playing with him, had my whole career in front of me playing with them.” pic.twitter.com/JaN9tcjVk8
— Sam Fortier (@Sam4TR) January 27, 2025
Ertz and Bobby Wagner’s impact on the 2024 Commanders will be remembered for years to come. Two veteran players who came to Washington to help reset a culture — a winning culture — and did it in only one year.
It almost sounded like the 34-year-old Ertz was unsure whether he would return next season. When you’re an older player, you take things year by year. Perhaps Ertz is considering retirement or hasn’t discussed any plans with the front office beyond his one-year contract.
If Ertz wants to return, it’s difficult to imagine Washington not wanting him back next season.