Lions’ selection of tight end Zach Ertz for the NFC Championship is under scrutiny
With just three practice days remaining and a trip to the Super Bowl on the line, the Detroit Lions ultimately decided not to play tight end Zach Ertz, who they had brought in as insurance for the NFC Championship game earlier in the week.
On January 24, the Lions added Ertz to their practice squad, adding depth to a position severely impacted by injuries. However, some fans expressed disapproval of the Lions’ decision to not elevate Ertz for the team’s game against the San Francisco 49ers on January 28.
Fullback Jason Cabinda and offensive lineman Michael Schofield were promoted from the practice squad by the Lions on Saturday in preparation for their match on Sunday. Fans were confused by the choice to not elevate the seasoned Ertz, but Mike Payton of AtoZ Sports pointed out that it was probably unlikely that Ertz would be ready in time to play.
Payton posted on X, “I know it seems strange, but Ertz has been here for three whole days.” It’s simply not enough time to become proficient with a playbook. If he performed on Sunday, it was probably only going to be to a small audience. He wouldn’t make much of a difference in this one.
Three-time Pro Bowler and Philadelphia Eagles Super Bowl champion Zach Ertz caught 27 passes for 187 yards and one touchdown in his seven games with the Arizona Cardinals this season. After requesting his release, Ertz was waived in November.
Ertz “plans to sign with a contender and make a run at his second Super Bowl ring,” according to a post by former Cardinals teammate J.J. Watts on X.
Though the Lions had been beset by injuries at tight end, standout rookie Sam LaPorta was able to fully resume practice following a season-ending knee injury. LaPorta was removed from the injury report for the NFC championship game after he had already participated in the first two playoff games.
In addition to being out for the season, backup tight end Brock Wright sustained an arm injury during last week’s victory.
The Lions might have other options at tight end even without Ertz. It was mentioned by Dave Birkett of the Detroit Free Press that Cabinda can also play as a third tight end.
Zach Ertz Turned Heads at Practice: In his brief time with the Lions, Ertz was able to leave a lasting impression, receiving compliments from quarterback Jared Goff on his quick learning curve.
According to the Detroit Free Press, Goff stated on Friday, “He’s picked it up extremely fast, he really has.” And very impressive, not that you didn’t anticipate that from a man with his background and longevity. And over the years, I’ve occasionally met him and heard about his intelligence.
Ertz would have two weeks to continue learning the offense in the event that the Lions defeat the 49ers on Sunday. If that happens, he could be able to play in the Super Bowl.
Sports writer Nathan Dougherty writes about the Detroit Lions and Buffalo Bills for Heavy.com. In the past, he worked as an assistant editor for the sports trade publications Coaching Management, Athletic Management, and Training & Conditioning in addition to writing for the Rochester Business Journal. Based in Rochester, New York, he has an intense passion for all things football. Additional information about Nathan Dougherty
