Zach Ertz Injury Reveals Commanders Emerging Tight End Options

Zach Ertz ACL Tear Ends Season, Sparks Fantasy Football Shakeup

Washington Commanders tight end Zach Ertz suffered a season-ending injury. He tore his ACL in Week 14 against the Minnesota Vikings. The serious injury occurred during the third quarter of the game.

Head coach Dan Quinn confirmed the feared diagnosis. At 35 years old, this injury could potentially end Ertz’s career. His emotional reaction on the sideline highlighted the severity of the situation.

Zach Ertz ACL injury

Ertz’s Absence Creates Major Void in Commanders’ Offense

Ertz was a key offensive piece for Washington this season. He was on the field for 551 snaps before getting hurt. His production will be difficult to replace directly.

According to NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport, the team fears a full tear. Ertz was also a reliable fantasy football asset. He ranked as the TE8, averaging 10.4 fantasy points per game.

His loss forces the Commanders to reshuffle their pass-catching options. Several younger players must now step into larger roles. The team’s final four games become an audition for the future.

Top Candidates to Fill the Fantasy Football Void

Rookie Ben Sinnott is the primary candidate for tight end snaps. The second-round draft pick has played 204 snaps this season. He is expected to absorb most of Ertz’s vacated receiving work.

Sinnott has only four catches for 41 yards so far. But his opportunities should skyrocket immediately. He is a prime target for fantasy managers seeking a tight end.

Wide receiver Treylon Burks could also see more action. The former first-round pick is trying to revive his career in Washington. He has shown brief flashes with a touchdown catch already.

Thought you’d like to know-

How serious is a torn ACL for an NFL player?

A torn ACL is a major knee injury requiring surgery and extensive rehab. Recovery typically takes 9 to 12 months. For a veteran like Ertz, it is a challenging setback.

Could Zach Ertz retire after this injury?

Yes, retirement is a realistic possibility. At 35, recovering to play another season is difficult. This injury may influence his decision about continuing his career.

Who is the best fantasy football pickup?

Tight end Ben Sinnott is the top add for immediate replacement. He is widely available and will see a significant snap increase. He offers red-zone potential for the final weeks.

What was Zach Ertz’s fantasy ranking?

Before his injury, Ertz was the TE8 in fantasy football. He was a consistent starter for many teams. His 10.4 points per game made him a valuable weekly option.

Are other Washington pass-catchers worth adding?

Wide receivers Noah Brown and Jaylin Lane may get more looks. Brown is returning from injury, and Lane is a rookie. Both are deeper league considerations for speculative adds.