While rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels has become an undeniable star for the Washington Commanders, their Week 17 playoff-clinching victory over the Atlanta Falcons was more gratifying for veteran tight end Zach Ertz.
In addition to catching the game-winning pass in overtime, the three-time Pro Bowler received additional money due to incentives in his contract. His sixth touchdown catch of the season earned him a $250,000 bonus. Likewise, going over 600 receiving yards for the season made him $250,000 richer. Ertz cashed in on another $250,000 for tallying at least 60 catches. In total, he made an extra $750,000 in one play.
As of Week 17 of the 2024 NFL season, Ertz has 61 receptions for 610 yards and six touchdowns. The 34-year-old tight end has 8,044 receiving yards, surpassing Ozzie Newsome for the ninth-most catching yards among tight ends. In addition to those incentives and achievements, his mother celebrated her birthday during the Commanders’ victory over the Falcons.
Zach Ertz’s game-winning touchdown catch that clinched a wild-card spot for the Commanders also was his sixth TD catch of the season, triggering a $250,000 bonus.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) December 30, 2024
Ertz made $250K for that catch, another $250K for going over 600 receiving yards this season, and another $250K for… pic.twitter.com/6rT2n4oGGZ
With the Philadelphia Eagles securing the NFC East, the Commanders will start the NFC Playoffs on the road during the Wild Card Round. Depending on the outcome of their Week 18 game against the Dallas Cowboys, Ertz and the Commanders could face the Los Angeles Rams or the winner of the NFC South (Falcons or Tampa Bay Buccaneers).
-Lance Fernandez