In the immortal words of LL Cool J, don't call it a comeback.
NFL Network's Tom Pelissero has reported that former Philadelphia Eagles tight end Zach Ertz - still grinding as he's currently rehabbing off a torn ACL - is fully committed to returning for a 14th NFL campaign.
"Three-time Pro Bowl TE Zach Ertz plans to play a 14th NFL season and is expected to be cleared right around Week 1, per souces. Ertz is 2 months into rehab from a torn ACL. He ranks 5th in catches and 8th in yards among TE in NFL history, including 50-504-4 in 13 games in 2025."
Much has been made of the tight end issues in Philadelphia. The position is entirely fluid at the moment, and the group's composition could be vastly different next season.
Ertz so good: Why a reunion in Philly makes sense
A potential homecoming for Zach Ertz could prove to be perfect timing, if not long overdue. Along with the many accolades #86 racked up while donning midnight green - including 38 touchdowns (57 career touchdowns), two Pro Bowl selections, and the unforgettable touchdown grab in Super Bowl LII as an Eagle - Ertz can still get downfield to make an impact.
Notching over 10 yards per reception in 2025, a full recovery for the free agent could usher in another strong output in 2026. Sure, there is a bit of risk fresh off injury, but his ability to challenge defenses since leaving Philadelphia in 2021 has been undeniable. In the past two seasons, he proved to be a highly trusted target for Jayden Daniels in Washington.
As a second tight end who can operate in the intermediate and short passing game, it's entirely possible that a team and player-friendly deal could be reached. And should he return to Philadelphia, he will continue his ascension up the charts of a few remarkable team records. With 579 receptions, Ertz trails only icon Harold Carmichael (589 receptions) by 10 catches for most in franchise history. He's also currently in fifth place for most receiving yards in Eagles history, with his 6,267 yards placing him well within striking distance of Desean Jackson (6.512 yards) and Mike Quick (6.464 yards) for a spot within the top three in team history.
Yes, adding more blocking prowess figures to be a heightened priority at the position, but as a complementary piece, the return of Ertz would raise the proverbial roof at Lincoln Financial Field.
Read more: New 3-round mock draft adds logical fits for Eagles (but one head scratcher)
And one last run in the city of brotherly love could provide quite the encore for a legendary Eagle.