1. Introduction
Veteran tight end Zach Ertz continues to be a significant contributor for the Washington Commanders. As a trusted target for quarterback Jayden Daniels, questions frequently arise such as: Is he playing today or tonight? What’s his contract status? And how does he fit into Washington’s offensive strategy this season? In this comprehensive article, we’ll address these questions and provide clarity for fans and fantasy football enthusiasts alike.
2. Is Zach Ertz Playing Today or Tonight?
As of Week 2 of the 2025 NFL season, all indications are that Zach Ertz is expected to play. According to the latest fantasy football injury model, he has a 99% chance to play this week, and expert rankings position him as the TE14 overall.
Similarly, the Pro Football Network’s Week 2 Fantasy Hub confirms:
“Ertz is not on the injury report and is expected to play.”
With no injury hurdles reported, fans can be confident that he will be active today or tonight, depending on the timing of the Commanders’ matchup.
3. Weekly Game Status and Injury Updates
Week 1 Recap:
In Week 1 against the Giants, Ertz had a solid performance:
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3 catches for 26 yards and a touchdown.
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He ranked second on the team in targets (five), following Deebo Samuel Sr.
Advanced Metrics:
According to Rotowire, Ertz currently accounts for:
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17.2% of Team Targets
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15.5% of Team Air Yards
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Average Depth of Target: 8.2 yards
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His Air Yards per Game: 41.0.
These metrics highlight his role as a consistent, middle-of-the-field receiving option for Washington.
Week 2 Outlook:
As referenced earlier, all latest reports confirm he is expected to play. No injury designations or red flags have been listed.
4. Contract and Re-Sign Details
Ertz has secured his place with the Commanders by signing a one-year contract worth $6.25 million, with incentives that could elevate it to $9 million.
According to Washington Post reporting:
The deal helps maintain offensive continuity and fosters quarterback Jayden Daniels’ development, retaining a trusted veteran in the red zone and intermediate areas. Last season, Ertz posted 66 receptions for 654 yards and seven touchdowns, playing all 17 games.
Other reports include:
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Hogs Haven: Added that Ertz also had 18 catches for 255 yards and a TD in the playoffs.
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TalkSport: Emphasized Daniels’ enthusiasm at the re-signing.
5. Performance Overview & Role with the Commanders
Career Snapshot
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Drafted: 2013, 2nd round (Pick 35) by Philadelphia Eagles; also played for Arizona Cardinals and briefly for Detroit Lions before joining the Commanders.
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Accolades: Super Bowl champion (LII); 3× Pro Bowl (2017–2019).
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2024 with Washington: 66 receptions, 654 yards, 7 TDs. NFC Championship Game standout with 11 catches for 104 yards.
Role & Fit
Ertz serves as a reliable middle-of-the-field and red-zone receiving option. His veteran savvy and route-running create separation and trust in critical situations. With teammates like Terry McLaurin, Deebo Samuel, and young tight end Ben Sinnott in the mix, Ertz continues to provide consistency and teaching presence for his younger counterparts.
6. Why This Matters to Fans and Fantasy Football Managers
For fans, especially those tracking daily updates or playing fantasy football, knowing if Zach Ertz is playing today or tonight is crucial. His weekly output—particularly in PPR formats—hinges on targets and red-zone usage. Based on his usage and health, he often ranks as a low-end TE1 or high-floor TE2.
Managers should continue to monitor game-day reports, but the current outlook suggests he remains a trustworthy weekly starter, particularly in favorable matchups or when other weapons are limited.
7. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Is Zach Ertz playing today or tonight?
A: Yes—he is expected to play in Week 2. He is not on the injury report, and the fantasy injury model gives him a 99% chance to play.
Q2: What is Zach Ertz’s current contract?
A: He signed a one-year contract for $6.25 million, with incentives potentially raising it to $9 million.
Q3: How did he perform in 2024 and the playoffs?
A: In the 2024 regular season, Ertz had 66 catches for 654 yards and 7 TDs. In the postseason, he added 18 catches for 255 yards and 1 TD. In the NFC Championship Game, he logged 11 receptions for 104 yards.
Q4: What is his role in the offense?
A: He is primarily used as a reliable red-zone and middle-of-the-field target, offering veteran stability and teaching presence. He remains especially valuable in third-down and scoring situations.
Q5: Is Ertz a fantasy football start?
A: Yes—he’s generally regarded as a low-end TE1 or high-floor TE2. He is expected to play and tends to be a safe, reliable option, particularly in PPR formats.
8. Conclusion
To summarize:
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Zach Ertz is expected to play today or tonight, with no injury flags and near-certain game status.
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He has secured his place in Washington with a one-year, up-to-$9 million contract, re-signing after a productive 2024.
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His consistent usage, especially in scoring situations, keeps him valuable both for Commanders fans and fantasy players.
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Continue tracking weekly updates, but confidence in his availability and role remains high.
