Zach Ertz Determined to Return in 2026 After Devastating Knee Injury

The veteran tight end is not ready to retire despite a serious ACL tear that will sideline him for most of next season.

Apr. 13, 2026 at 10:51pm

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A fragmented, geometric painting depicting a football player in motion, with sharp, overlapping planes of burgundy and gold representing the Washington Commanders' team colors.A cubist interpretation of a determined Washington Commanders tight end fighting through injury to return to the field.Washington Today

Washington Commanders tight end Zach Ertz suffered a season-ending ACL injury in Week 14 of the 2025 season at the age of 35. While some thought the devastating knee injury would spell the end of his career, Ertz is determined to make a comeback and play again in 2026, stating he doesn't want his last play to be the defining moment of his career.

Why it matters

Ertz's injury and desire to return raises questions about the longevity of veteran players in the NFL, especially those coming off major injuries. His comeback attempt will be closely watched as an example of an experienced player fighting to prolong his career against the odds.

The details

Ertz was having a strong season for the Commanders in 2025 before suffering the ACL tear in Week 14. The injury is expected to sideline him for the majority of the 2026 season as he recovers. Despite the long road ahead, Ertz is adamant about making it back onto the field, stating he doesn't want his career to be defined by that final play before the injury.

  • Ertz suffered the season-ending ACL injury in Week 14 of the 2025 NFL season.
  • Ertz is expected to miss the majority of the 2026 NFL season as he recovers from the knee injury.

The players

Zach Ertz

A veteran tight end for the Washington Commanders who is determined to return to the NFL in 2026 despite suffering a serious ACL injury at the age of 35.

Washington Commanders

The NFL team that Zach Ertz plays for, where he was having a strong season before suffering a season-ending knee injury.

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What they’re saying

“I don't want it to be the last play that I have. Even talking to people now, and they do it out of the goodness of their heart, and [they say], 'Man, that injury was tough.' When people think of my career and that last play, I don't want that to be the conversation starter.”

— Zach Ertz, Washington Commanders Tight End

What’s next

Ertz will continue his rehabilitation process with the goal of returning to the field for the Commanders in the 2026 NFL season.

The takeaway

Zach Ertz's determination to return from a devastating knee injury at the age of 35 showcases the competitive spirit and resilience of veteran NFL players. His comeback attempt will be closely watched as an inspiring example of an experienced player fighting to prolong his career against the odds.