Zach Ertz: Profile of a Premier Tight End in the NFL
Zach Ertz has had a flourishing career as a tight end in the National Football League (NFL). Known for his hands, route-running, and ability to come up with big plays, this article offers an in-depth profile of one of football’s most prolific tight ends.
Early Life and College Career
Ertz’s Origins and High School Highlights
Born on November 10, 1990, in Orange, California, Zachary Adam Ertz would emerge as one of America’s top-ranked football players. In high school at Monte Vista in Danville, California, Ertz excelled both academically and on the playing field. His senior year was marked by an impressive record boasting numerous touchdowns and receiving yards, foreshadowing what would come in his college and professional careers.
Stanford Cardinal Success
Choosing to attend Stanford University, Ertz played collegiate football for the Stanford Cardinal under coaches Jim Harbaugh and David Shaw. His tenure with Stanford was marked with steady improvement each year, culminating in a stellar final season which earned him unanimous All-American honors. With an extraordinary junior year performance, especially notable in the Rose Bowl, Ertz made his case to enter the NFL Draft.
NFL Years
Draft and Early Seasons with the Philadelphia Eagles
The Philadelphia Eagles selected Zach Ertz in the second round (35th overall) of the 2013 NFL Draft. As a rookie he showed flashes of potential but it was the following seasons where Ertz’s consistent development thrust him into the limelight as one of the top tight ends in the league. With an intuitive connection with his quarterbacks and strong possession skills, he became a favorite target on third down and in critical game moments.
Pro Bowler and Record Breaker
Ertz’s efforts did not go unnoticed; he earned his first trip to the Pro Bowl after the 2017 season and would repeat this achievement in 2018 and 2019. Moreover, in 2018, he set a then-NFL record for most receptions by a tight end in a single season. The combination of size, quickness, and reliable hands made him nearly unstoppable on key downs.
Super Bowl LII Champion
Zach Ertz’s hallmark season came in 2017 when he played a pivotal role in securing the Philadelphia Eagles their first Super Bowl title in franchise history. He made several critical plays throughout the playoff run that year but none larger than his late touchdown that secured victory over the New England Patriots in Super Bowl LII.
Off-Field Impact and Community Involvement
Charitable Works
Away from football, Zach Ertz has been commendable for his charitable work, particularly through the Ertz Family Foundation which he runs alongside his wife, Julie Johnston Ertz, herself a standout player for the U.S. Women’s National Soccer Team. Through their foundation, they focus on initiatives to help those in need, emphasizing youth sports and education.
Later Career Moves: Arizona Cardinals Transition
Following his storied time with the Eagles, Zach Ertz was traded during the 2021 season to the Arizona Cardinals. While a tough emotional departure from what had become his football home, Ertz quickly engrained himself within the Cardinals team culture as a veteran presence and continued to make substantial contributions on the field.
Notes
Image Description
A dynamic photo depicting Zach Ertz mid-game; clad in either his Philadelphia Eagles or Arizona Cardinals gear dependent on current team status. He is likely shown calling for or receiving a football exemplifying determination and athletic focus typical of his position as tight end. The image may capture him set against a vibrant stadium background with fans showcasing his professional context.