Cardinals Announce Zach Ertz’s Release – Find Out What’s Next for the Pro Bowl Tight End

With Trey McBride establishing himself as TE1 for the Cardinals, the looming question was how Zach Ertz would fit in.

The answer came Thursday when the Cardinals officially released the veteran tight end. This mutual parting of the ways was first reported by Ertz’s former teammate J.J. Watt.

Ertz has been on Injured Reserve with a quad injury, causing him to miss five games. Given the late-season move, Ertz must still go through waivers despite his veteran status and would be owed about $2.5 million for any team that claims him. NFL Network reported that Ertz agreed to give up one week’s game check to help facilitate the move.

Upon his arrival via trade in 2021, Ertz tied the franchise record for receptions with 56, despite playing in just 11 games after a trade from the Eagles. Last season, Ertz was on pace to break the franchise record for catches when he tore his ACL in the Cardinals’ 10th game. He finished the season with 46 catches for 406 yards and four touchdowns.

Although Ertz was physically fit for Week 1 this season, the production in a Kyler Murray-less offense never seemed to click, as he had 27 catches but only 187 yards and a touchdown. Once Ertz was sidelined, McBride’s effectiveness noticeably increased.

Ertz had been under contract through 2024, but it was likely that he would be released in the offseason considering his status on the roster and his salary.

Currently, the Cardinals have McBride, Geoff Swaim, and Blake Whiteheart on the roster at the tight end position.

The Cardinals re-signed defensive lineman Ben Stille to the practice squad after releasing him from the roster earlier this week. Stille has already been elevated three times from the practice squad for games, so his only chance to play games is to be promoted to the roster.