Washington Commanders tight end Zach Ertz shared an uplifting message following a knee injury that ended his season during a tough 31-0 loss to the Vikings. He expressed, “Even if I break down, I will never give up,” alongside a photo of himself praying in uniform.
His wife, Julie Ertz, a celebrated soccer player and two-time Women’s World Cup champion, reposted his message on her Instagram Story.
The injury occurred in the third quarter when Ertz was tackled by Vikings safety Jay Ward while trying to catch a pass from backup quarterback Marcus Mariota. Ertz, now in his 13th NFL season at age 35, appeared emotional as he was wheeled off the field with his leg secured in a brace.
During the game, he managed to record one catch for 11 yards on two attempts and participated in 34 snaps. Unfortunately, this defeat marked Washington’s eighth consecutive loss.
Prior to Ertz’s injury, star quarterback Jaden Daniels left the game due to a left elbow issue. Afterward, head coach Dan Quinn noted that Daniels was removed as a precaution but could make a return. Daniels had previously dislocated the same elbow in Week 9, which caused him to miss three games prior to this one.
Ertz had amassed 50 catches for 504 yards and four touchdowns in his second season with the Commanders. He signed a one-year contract for this season, which leaves his future uncertain as retirement may be on the table.
He was instrumental in leading Washington to the NFC Championship Game in January, although they fell to the eventual Super Bowl champions, Philadelphia, with a score of 55-23.
