Commanders Coach Cites Key Improvement From Veteran TE

Ahead of Jayden Daniels’ rookie season, the Washington Commanders did what they could to surround him with quality veterans. Following a strong first season with the franchise, one offensive weapon appears ready to improve even more in 2025.

Coming off a down year with the Arizona Cardinals, where he only played in seven games, the Commanders signed tight end Zach Ertz. He’d have a bit of a resurgence in Washington, proving to be a viable target for Daniels. Appearing in all 17 games, Ertz totaled 654 receiving yards and scored seven touchdowns.

While guys like Terry McLaurin and new addition Deebo Samuel have garnered most of the attention, Ertz has quietly been working to be an even stronger complementary piece for the Commanders.

Also read: NFL Analyst Cites Key Element in Terry McLaurin Trade Saga

Commanders coach praises Zach Ertz’s improvement in key area

In a recent column for ESPN, insider John Keim broke down some of the top standouts from the Commanders’ practice with the Patriots. Among those to get a shout-out was Ertz.

Keim noted that one member of the coaching staff applauded Ertz’s improved footwork and thinks it could make him an even more dangerous weapon in 2025.

“However, left tackle Laremy Tunsil showed again Wednesday why they traded for him. He was a strong protector for quarterback Jayden Daniels on the edge — his size and footwork were on display,” Keim wrote. “Meanwhile, tight end Zach Ertz was, again, a reliable target over the middle — one coach said his footwork is even better than last year, allowing for more yards after the catch. That was evident Wednesday.”

Young quarterbacks are known to heavily rely on their tight end, and that could end up being the case for Daniels this season. Depending on what happens with McLaurin and the front office, Ertz could find himself with a more prominent role in the offense to start the season.

Also read: Insider Reveals Sizable Disconnect in Terry McLaurin Contract Talks

Earlier in his career, Ertz was viewed as one of the top tight ends in the NFL. At his peak with the Philadelphia Eagles, he notched a 1,100-yard season and was a key piece for a team that won that Super Bowl.

Now getting ready to turn 35, it’s safe to say those days are behind Ertz. However, if he can bring back any semblance of his old self, he could end up being a major X-factor for the Commanders this season.

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