Zach Ertz has earned his place as one of the most accomplished and respected tight ends in NFL history. His consistency, elite route-running, and knack for making crucial plays in big moments have made him a cornerstone of any offense he has been a part of. From his Super Bowl-winning performance with the Philadelphia Eagles to his recent success with the Arizona Cardinals, Ertz’s career reflects hard work, leadership, and football intelligence. This article delves into Zach Ertz’s journey, his impact on the game, and what the future holds for this elite tight end.
Early Life and College Stardom
Born on November 10, 1990, in Orange, California, Zach Ertz showed athletic potential from a young age. He attended Monte Vista High School in Danville, California, where he excelled in both football and basketball. After graduating, Ertz accepted a scholarship to Stanford University, where he would make a name for himself in college football.
At Stanford, under coach David Shaw, Ertz became a key part of the Cardinal’s offense. He was known for his ability to get open down the middle of the field and make difficult catches in traffic. In his final college season (2012), Ertz led Stanford with 69 receptions and 898 receiving yards, earning consensus All-American honors. His collegiate success made him one of the top tight end prospects in the 2013 NFL Draft.
NFL Career: Philadelphia Eagles
Drafted by the Eagles (2013)
Zach Ertz was selected by the Philadelphia Eagles in the second round (35th overall) of the 2013 NFL Draft. The Eagles saw Ertz’s potential to be a game-changing tight end, and he quickly developed into one of the team’s primary offensive weapons. His ability to run crisp routes, coupled with his size and athleticism, made him a mismatch for opposing defenses.
Breakout Season (2015)
Ertz’s breakout year came in 2015, when he recorded 75 receptions for 853 yards, showcasing his ability to be a reliable target for then-quarterback Sam Bradford. His chemistry with new head coach Doug Pederson helped elevate his role in the offense, and it became clear that Ertz was more than just a blocking tight end—he was an elite receiver capable of stretching the field.
Super Bowl LII and Career Milestones
The pinnacle of Ertz’s career came during the 2017 season, when he was a crucial part of the Eagles’ journey to their first-ever Super Bowl championship. Ertz finished the season with 74 receptions, 824 receiving yards, and a career-high 8 touchdowns. However, it was in Super Bowl LII against the New England Patriots where Ertz truly left his mark on history.
In the fourth quarter of the Super Bowl, with the game on the line, Ertz made a game-changing catch and ran into the end zone, giving the Eagles the lead. His performance was instrumental in securing the Eagles’ 41-33 victory, and his catch is remembered as one of the most iconic moments in Super Bowl history. Ertz finished the game with 7 receptions for 67 yards and the decisive touchdown.
In 2018, Ertz continued to elevate his game, setting the NFL record for most receptions in a single season by a tight end, with 116 catches. That year, he also recorded 1,163 receiving yards and 8 touchdowns, cementing his place as one of the NFL’s elite.
Departure from Philadelphia
After nearly a decade with the Eagles, Ertz’s time in Philadelphia came to an emotional close during the 2021 season. As the team looked to rebuild and transition to a younger core, Ertz was traded to the Arizona Cardinals in October 2021. His departure marked the end of an era in Philadelphia, but he left as one of the franchise’s greatest players.
New Beginning: Arizona Cardinals
In Arizona, Ertz brought experience, leadership, and proven talent to a young, dynamic team led by quarterback Kyler Murray. He quickly became a key target in the Cardinals’ passing attack, and his presence has helped elevate the offense.
Immediate Impact with the Cardinals
Ertz wasted no time making an impact in Arizona. In his debut with the team, he hauled in 3 catches for 66 yards and a touchdown, immediately establishing chemistry with Murray. Throughout the rest of the 2021 season, Ertz remained a consistent force, finishing with 56 receptions for 574 yards and 3 touchdowns in just 11 games with the Cardinals.
Leadership and Mentorship
Beyond his production on the field, Ertz has played a significant role as a leader and mentor in the Cardinals’ locker room. His experience as a Super Bowl champion and veteran tight end has provided valuable insight for younger players. As the Cardinals look to remain competitive in the NFC, Ertz’s veteran presence has been crucial.
Playing Style and Strengths
Elite Route-Running
One of Zach Ertz’s greatest strengths is his ability to run precise, crisp routes. His knowledge of how to create separation from defenders is what makes him such a dangerous receiving threat. Whether it’s beating linebackers in man coverage or finding the soft spots in zone defenses, Ertz has an uncanny ability to get open.
Sure Hands and Clutch Plays
Ertz is known for his reliable hands, rarely dropping passes, especially in high-pressure situations. He has consistently made clutch catches in key moments, as seen in Super Bowl LII and numerous other games throughout his career. This reliability has made him a go-to target for quarterbacks over the years.
Blocking Ability
While Ertz is best known for his receiving skills, he is also a capable blocker. Over the course of his career, he has improved in this area, making him a versatile player who can be used in various offensive schemes. His ability to block defensive ends and linebackers has added a valuable dimension to his game, making him a complete tight end.
Legacy and NFL Impact
Zach Ertz’s career is a testament to consistency, hard work, and excellence. He ranks among the top tight ends in NFL history in terms of receptions, yards, and touchdowns. His legacy in Philadelphia is cemented, not only as a Super Bowl champion but also as one of the most productive tight ends in the franchise’s history.
Throughout his career, Ertz has demonstrated the importance of the tight end position in modern NFL offenses. His ability to be both a reliable receiver and a solid blocker has made him a prototype for the new generation of tight ends entering the league.
What’s Next for Zach Ertz?
As of the 2024 season, Zach Ertz remains a key contributor for the Arizona Cardinals. His experience and skill set make him a valuable asset as the Cardinals aim to compete in a tough NFC West division. While Ertz’s career is already filled with accolades and accomplishments, he continues to push forward, showing no signs of slowing down.
Looking to the future, Ertz’s name will likely be in discussions for the Pro Football Hall of Fame. With his consistent production, record-setting performances, and Super Bowl heroics, Ertz has made a compelling case for induction once his playing days are over.
In conclusion, Zach Ertz is one of the most accomplished tight ends in NFL history. His contributions on the field, leadership off the field, and ability to come through in clutch moments have left an indelible mark on the sport.