Zach Ertz Placed on IR with Torn ACL; Commanders Sign Chase Edmonds, Add Kevon Seymour to Practice Squad
Tough news out of Washington: veteran tight end Zach Ertz has been placed on injured reserve after suffering a torn ACL. It’s a brutal blow for the 35-year-old, whose 2025 season-and potentially his career-comes to a sudden halt.
Ertz had quietly been one of the more reliable pieces in a Commanders offense that’s struggled to find its rhythm this year. Even in his mid-30s, he was producing at a solid clip, showing the kind of savvy route-running and dependable hands that made him a staple in NFL passing games for over a decade. In 13 games this season, he hauled in 50 passes on 72 targets for 504 yards and four touchdowns-steady numbers that reflect his continued value as a security blanket and red zone threat.
This injury is particularly tough considering the long road Ertz has already traveled. A second-round pick by the Eagles in 2013, Ertz carved out a legacy in Philadelphia, including a Super Bowl title and three Pro Bowl nods. He was traded to Arizona in 2021 and signed a three-year, $31.65 million deal with the Cardinals, where he continued to contribute at a high level before injuries began to creep in.
After being released by Arizona ahead of the 2024 season, Ertz had a brief stint with the Lions before finding a home in Washington. He re-signed with the Commanders in March on a one-year deal worth up to $9 million with incentives.
The move was seen as a win-win: Washington got a veteran presence for a young offense, and Ertz got another chance to prove he still had something left in the tank. And for much of this season, he did exactly that.
Now, with the ACL tear, the question shifts from "what can Ertz give down the stretch?" to "was that the last we’ll see of him on an NFL field?"
At 35, coming off a major knee injury, the road back would be steep. But if this is the end, he walks away with a résumé that speaks for itself-over a decade of production, a championship ring, and a reputation as one of the most reliable tight ends of his era.
In response to the roster shake-up, Washington is signing veteran running back Chase Edmonds to the active roster. Edmonds brings versatility and experience to the backfield, having contributed as both a runner and pass-catcher throughout his career. He’ll provide depth and flexibility for a team still trying to find consistency on offense.
The Commanders also added cornerback Kevon Seymour to the practice squad. Seymour has bounced around the league but offers special teams value and depth at a position that’s always in demand late in the season.
For Washington, the loss of Ertz is more than just a hit to the stat sheet-it’s the loss of a veteran leader and a stabilizing force. The team will now look to younger tight ends to step up, while hoping Edmonds and Seymour can provide a spark in their respective roles.
As for Ertz, if this is the final chapter, it’s been one heck of a run.