Tight end Zach Ertz has been in the spotlight recently after his decision to sign with the Washington Commanders. One of the pivotal factors influencing his choice was the presence of offensive coordinator Kliff Kingsbury.
Kingsbury had previously worked with Ertz during their time together with the Arizona Cardinals. Ertz’s performance flourished under Kingsbury’s guidance, as he amassed impressive statistics, including 103 receptions for 980 yards and seven touchdowns across 21 games.
However, following Kingsbury’s departure from the Cardinals in early 2023, Ertz’s productivity experienced a downturn, ultimately resulting in his release from the team.
During an appearance on The Pat McAfee Show, Ertz expressed his excitement about reuniting with Kingsbury in Washington. He emphasized Kingsbury’s significant role in his success in Arizona, making it an easy decision for him to consider Washington as a desirable destination in free agency.
Ertz also highlighted the notable changes within the Washington organization as an appealing aspect. With new leadership in the form of an owner, general manager, and head coach, including Dan Quinn, Ertz sees the team’s fresh direction as promising.
The prospect of returning to the East Coast further adds to Ertz’s anticipation for the upcoming season with the Commanders. He views the ongoing transformations within the team, including the potential acquisition of a new quarterback through the draft, as additional reasons for optimism.
The possibility of drafting a talented quarterback could significantly bolster Washington’s competitiveness, making it an attractive landing spot for players like Ertz who are seeking to join the franchise in 2024 and beyond.