Big changes are coming to the Washington Commanders' roster with free agency on the immediate horizon. There's also an obvious intent to reward those who contributed significantly during the team's memorable run to the NFC Championship game in 2024.
There was a growing belief that the Commanders and Zach Ertz would come to a mutual agreement on a new deal. The veteran tight end outlined his desire to remain in Washington after a standout campaign. Adam Peters rewarded him accordingly to maintain continuity around quarterback sensation Jayden Daniels with a one-year deal.
According to multiple reports, the Commanders will pay Ertz around $6.25 million which could increase to $9 million with incentives. This represents a good deal for both parties and ensures Daniels has one of his most trusted assets in the passing game around for one more campaign.
Ertz is more than deserving of this commitment. Most fans and analysts wondered if he could still produce the goods after signing for the Commanders last offseason. His career trajectory over the two years before joining Washington meant this could have gone either way. As it turned out, reuniting with Kliff Kingsbury galvanized his career.
Zach Ertz's new deal with the Commanders is richly deserved
The former second-round pick slotted into the schematic concepts seamlessly. Ertz earned a prominent role in the passing game and embraced the team's culture shift under head coach Dan Quinn. He led from the front, becoming an integral part of Washington's strategy and providing Ben Sinnott with an exceptional mentor during his rookie transition.
When the Commanders needed a big play on offense, Daniels went to either Terry McLaurin or Ertz more often than not. The Stanford product's assured hands, body control, and ability to create separation quickly became a major asset. Extending him also provides some extra breathing space for Sinnott to continue his development before potentially assuming TE1 responsibilities.
Sinnott was brought along gradually by the coaching staff. He flashed promise as a blocker and brought in all five of his targets for 28 receiving yards and one touchdown. It would be a surprise if the ex-Kansas State standout wasn't more involved next season, but he'll likely be a secondary option unless Ertz gets struck by the injury bug.
Having another year to learn from Ertz should do wonders for Sinnott's development. But the Commanders are ready to win now, so keeping a proven performer with Pro Bowl-caliber production was essential for the short term.
And if this is his last season before riding off into the retirement sunset, his teammates will do everything in their power to make sure he goes out with a bang.
More Commanders news and analysis