The Philadelphia Eagles are bringing back three-time Pro Bowler Zach Ertz to their practice squad following an MCL injury that is expected to sideline starting tight end Dallas Goedert for multiple weeks. The 2-0 Eagles look to stabilize their offense and running game amidst mounting injury concerns.
In a move that stirs profound nostalgia and addresses an immediate roster crisis, the Philadelphia Eagles are bringing back a familiar face to shore up their offensive depth. Per a report from ESPN's Adam Schefter, veteran tight end Zach Ertz is signing with Philadelphia's practice squad to help navigate a crucial stretch of the NFL season. Ertz previously played eight-plus stellar seasons with the Eagles from 2013 through 2021, cementing his legacy in franchise history.
During his first tenure in Philadelphia, Ertz established himself as a three-time Pro Bowler and emerged as a vital, high-leverage contributor to the organization's historic first Super Bowl-winning team during the 2017 season. His deep familiarity with the franchise's culture, offensive schemes, and standard of play makes him an invaluable presence in the locker room as the coaching staff looks to weather an unexpected wave of physical setbacks across the offensive unit.
Now 35 years old, Ertz last suited up for the Washington Commanders during the 2025 campaign, proving he could still produce at a high competitive level in the National Football League. Over 13 starts with Washington, he tallied 50 receptions for 504 yards and hauled in 4 touchdowns, demonstrating that his veteran savvy and route-running precision remain intact despite the physical mileage of a long career.
However, Ertz's 2025 season ended prematurely when he sustained a season-ending ACL tear in December. Because of the timing of the injury and his extensive rehabilitation process, he did not sign a contract during the offseason or participate in a training camp over the summer, meaning his conditioning and game readiness will be closely monitored by Philadelphia's performance staff upon his arrival at the practice facility.
The necessity for Ertz's arrival stems directly from a significant injury to the team's undisputed primary tight end, Dallas Goedert. A 31-year-old ninth-season NFL veteran who has spent his entire professional career with the Eagles, Goedert has consistently ranked among the league's most reliable and efficient producers at the position, serving as a foundational pillar of Philadelphia's offensive attack.
Goedert's absence creates an immense void for head coach Nick Sirianni and offensive coordinator Kellen Moore. Through the first two games of the current season, Goedert had already logged 5 catches for 81 yards and 2 touchdowns, with both of those scoring receptions coming against Washington in Week 1. Last season, he posted a career-high 11 touchdowns alongside 60 receptions for 591 yards, highlighting his elite status in the red zone.
The timing of Goedert's MCL injury - which is expected to sideline him for multiple weeks - magnifies broader offensive concerns that surfaced during Sunday's contest. Goedert was limited to just one catch against the Tennessee Titans before leaving the field before halftime, forcing the coaching staff to rapidly adjust their game plan under adverse circumstances.
Beyond his prowess as a favorite red-zone target for quarterback Jalen Hurts, Goedert is celebrated as an elite blocker who routinely clears pathways for Philadelphia's rushing attack. His departure was deeply felt on Sunday as the run game severely stalled, compounded by a stinger that limited star running back Saquon Barkley to a meager four carries. As a result, the Eagles managed only 89 yards on 32 carries, translating to an inefficient 2.8 yards per carry.
While the Eagles currently boast an unblemished 2-0 record to open the campaign, their recent performance against a struggling Titans squad underscores the fine margins of error in the league. Philadelphia found themselves trailing 20-17 late in the fourth quarter before orchestrating a late scoring drive with seconds remaining to secure the narrow and hard-fought victory.
Looking ahead, health updates remain critical as the franchise prepares for upcoming matchups. Saquon Barkley was slated to undergo a precautionary MRI on his injury following Sunday's game, though head coach Nick Sirianni informed reporters during his Monday afternoon press conference that he did not yet have an official update on Barkley's condition. Integrating Zach Ertz back into the fold provides an immediate tactical safety net while the organization monitors the recovery timelines of its offensive centerpieces.
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