The Washington Commanders had one of the best seasons in recent memory in 2024. Rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels was fabulous, leading the offense to be one of the most dangerous in the NFL. Last offseason, the Commanders went on a spending spree in free agency, signing many veteran players to deals. Many criticized this, but it worked out well as it established a culture that spread through the locker room. One of those veterans was three-time Pro Bowl tight end Zach Ertz. He was a reliable target for Daniels all year, and the team is bringing him back on a one-year deal.
Washington Commanders Re-Sign Zach Ertz
NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero reports that Zach Ertz’s contract is one year and $6.25 million. However, incentives could push it up to $9 million. The Washington Commanders signed him, hoping he could bring a veteran presence to the locker room. He did much more than that. The former Philadelphia Eagle and Arizona Cardinal played in all 17 games, catching 66 passes for 654 yards and seven touchdowns. That was his most receiving yards since 2022 and most receiving touchdowns since 2018.
It was clear that Daniels looked for Ertz in the red zone. While Terry McLaurin had a career year as well, most of his touchdowns were passes from outside the red zone. When the team got close to the endzone, Ertz knew how to get open. The Commanders get the veteran presence back, and Daniels gets one of his favorite targets.
Dangerous Offense
The Washington Commanders are building quite the offense this offseason. McLaurin is still there, and the team traded for Deebo Samuel already this offseason. Now that Zach Ertz is back in the mix, the offense is starting to be one of the most dangerous in the league. Daniels himself is a weapon because of his running ability, which creates more opportunities for the rest of the pass catchers. Defenders have to respect his legs, leading to some one-on-one opportunities in coverage.
The Washington Commanders surprised many by making it to the NFC Championship Game last year. They are hungry for more. The quarterback on a rookie contract is one of the best advantages in sports. Washington is looking to take advantage of it. The offense is looking good so far, and we are early in the offseason. What else does the front office have up its sleeve?
