In a significant move ahead of the NFC Championship game, Zach Ertz has officially signed with the Detroit Lions, as reported by Tom Pelissero of NFL Network on Monday.
The seasoned tight end is slated to commence with the practice squad, with the potential of being elevated to the active roster in time for the Lions’ pivotal matchup against the San Francisco 49ers.
Formerly associated with the Arizona Cardinals, Ertz sought his release earlier this season with the aim of joining a competitive team. The move to Detroit materialized following the injury to backup tight end Brock Wright during the Lions’ clash with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Sunday. Head coach Dan Campbell expressed uncertainty about Wright’s availability for the upcoming game, stating, “Brock, we’ll see. Doesn’t look real good for next week, but we’ll see.”
Zach Ertz, a three-time Pro Bowler and Super Bowl champion with the Philadelphia Eagles, adds a wealth of experience to the Lions’ lineup. Notably, Ertz has some familiarity with the Lions’ system, having played under current Lions tight ends coach Steve Heiden during Heiden’s tenure coaching tight ends in Arizona last season. Ertz, who boasts a 12-year career with the Eagles (2013-2021) and the Cardinals (2021-2023), brings impressive statistics, including 709 catches for 7,434 yards and 46 touchdowns.
