Cardinals release three-time Pro Bowl TE Zach Ertz, clear way for football season

The Arizona Cardinals released veteran tight end Zach Ertz, clearing the way for Trey McBride to take over as the starter.

The Arizona Cardinals made a significant move on Thursday, releasing veteran tight end Zach Ertz. This decision paves the way for the up-and-coming Trey McBride to step into the starting role. Ertz, who is 33 years old, is a three-time Pro Bowl selection. However, he has been sidelined for the past five games due to a quadriceps injury. Despite returning from an ACL tear in 2022, Ertz has only played in seven games this season, recording 27 catches for 187 yards and a touchdown.

Even if Ertz had been able to return from his recent injury, it is likely that he would have lost playing time to McBride, who has been a standout player in an otherwise challenging season for the Cardinals, who currently hold a 2-10 record.

Ertz began his career with the Philadelphia Eagles, where he achieved a Super Bowl victory in 2017. After being traded to the Cardinals during the 2021 season, he performed well, tallying 56 catches for 574 yards and three touchdowns in just 11 games.

The news of Ertz's release was first reported by his former Cardinals teammate, J.J. Watt, who took to social media to share that the tight end "plans to sign with a contender and make a run at his 2nd Super Bowl ring." The Cardinals subsequently confirmed Ertz's release.

This move signifies a significant shift in the Cardinals' lineup and opens the door for McBride to step into a more prominent role. It will be interesting to see how this decision impacts the team as they navigate the remainder of the season.

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