The last time Zach Ertz played in a Conference Championship game, he was suited up in midnight green. He made it to the mountaintop during a Super Bowl run with the Philadelphia Eagles. He was one of the heroes, securing a ring in his fifth career season.
Seven years later, Ertz is back for another run at glory. Who would have thought? This time, he is doing so with a different team.
Zach Ertz returns to Philadelphia, hoping not to repeat his last appearance.
Ertz returned 'home' in Week 11, playing for the Washington Commanders. It was his first time playing in Philadelphia since being traded. Against his former team, Ertz finished with 47 receiving yards and a late touchdown in the fourth quarter. The Commanders still lost the game.
With a win at home five weeks later, the Commanders split the season series with the Eagles this season. Ertz is hoping to break that tie in favor of Washington.
Earlier this week, Ertz was asked about his feelings on the matter. "I'm going to do everything I can to make sure that we are giving ourselves a chance to win the football game. When the whistle blows, it's not gonna be about the nine years I had there, it's going to be about trying to make as many plays for this team as possible."
“I understand the environment it’s going to be. I understand how I’m going to be received this time versus last time. Everyone knows how I feel about that building, the people in that building, the people in that community. Our foundation is still doing work there for a reason.… pic.twitter.com/mda9WlXHsS
— John Clark (@JClarkNBCS) January 23, 2025
Adding a veteran presence to the Commanders, Ertz and receiver Terry McLaurin have brought leadership to the offense. This season he has 654 yards and seven touchdowns. He will add to that come Sunday.
Now, one game away from the Super Bowl, there could be another ring in Ertz's future. The Eagles will host the Commanders Sunday at 3PM ET.