Zach Ertz isn’t done yet. Not even close. The veteran tight end tore his ACL in Week 14 against the Vikings, and many wondered if that would be the end for the 35-year-old. But according to NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero, Ertz is planning to return for his 14th season and should be cleared right around Week 1 of 2026.
Two months into rehab and already eyeing a comeback. That is the kind of resilience you’d expect from a guy who ranks fifth all-time in receptions and eighth in receiving yards among tight ends.
Still Getting It Done
Before the injury, Ertz was quietly putting together another solid season in Washington. He hauled in 50 catches for 504 yards and 4 touchdowns in 13 games. He’s not going to wow you with athleticism at this stage, but his route-running is still sharp, and his hands remain some of the safest in the league.
Where Could Ertz End Up?
With his Commanders contract expired, Ertz will hit free agency. So where does he land? Here are a few spots that make sense:
Philadelphia Eagles
A reunion in Philly? It’s not as crazy as it sounds. Dallas Goedert is heading into free agency himself, and if the Eagles lose him, bringing back Ertz on a one-year deal could provide stability while they figure out their long-term plan at the position. Plus, the fans would love it. Ertz is still a beloved figure in Philadelphia after catching that game-winning Super Bowl LII touchdown.
Kansas City Chiefs
If Travis Kelce decides to hang it up, the Chiefs would need a reliable target at tight end. Patrick Mahomes has always thrived with a security blanket in the middle of the field, and while Ertz isn’t the dynamic playmaker Kelce is, he knows how to win in the short game. If Kansas City wants another ring, adding a veteran like Ertz wouldn’t be the worst move.
Washington Commanders
Don’t rule out a return to Washington. Jayden Daniels developed great chemistry with Ertz over the past two seasons, and Head Coach Dan Quinn values veteran leadership. The only wrinkle? Washington has been focused on getting younger and faster this offseason, and the veteran doesn’t exactly check those boxes. Still, if the price is right, bringing him back makes sense.
Teams With Young Quarterbacks
Ertz’s value goes beyond just catching passes. He’s a leader in the locker room and a mentor on the field. These are qualities that young quarterbacks desperately need. The Tennessee Titans (with Cam Ward) and New York Giants (with Jaxson Dart) could both benefit from adding a seasoned veteran who can help their young signal-callers adjust to the NFL.
The Bottom Line
Ertz has nothing left to prove. He’s got a Super Bowl ring, three Pro Bowls, and a Hall of Fame-worthy career. But he’s not ready to walk away—not yet. If he can get back to full strength by Week 1, some team is going to get a dependable, high-IQ tight end who still knows how to produce.
