Ex-Lions tight end cashes in while giving Commanders a playoff spot

Three-time Pro Bowler Zach Ertz secured a significant payday with his clutch catch during the Washington Commanders’ 30-24 win over the Atlanta Falcons on Sunday.

Ertz’s game-winning touchdown catch from rookie Jayden Daniels not only clinched a wild-card berth for the Commanders, but also marked his sixth touchdown reception of the season. The catch triggered a $250,000 bonus as part of his contract.

The former Super Bowl champion also earned an additional $250,000 for surpassing 600 yards this season and another $250,000 for catching 60-plus passes — feats he accomplished Sunday night, making it a $750,000 day in incentives.

In 16 games this season — the first time he’s played that many since making 15 appearances with Philadelphia in 2019 — Ertz has recorded 61 receptions for 610 yards and six touchdowns.

Before joining the Commanders in the offseason, Ertz had a brief stint with the Detroit Lions last year following his release from the Arizona Cardinals, where he spent the previous three seasons. He signed with the Lions’ practice squad following a forearm injury to tight end Brock Wright during the team’s 31-23 division win over the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

Ertz did not see action while in Detroit, and his contract expired after the Lions’ 34-31 loss to the San Francisco 49ers in the NFC Championship Game.

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