Arizona Cardinals Release Zach Ertz; Tight End Eyes Super Bowl Contender

Ertz's release follows the emergence of Trey McBride as the Cardinals' top tight end; Ertz must clear waivers before joining a new team.

Zach Ertz, the three-time Pro Bowl tight end, has been released by the Arizona Cardinals upon his request. Ertz plans to join a Super Bowl contender.
Ertz's release comes as Trey McBride, a second-year player, has emerged as the Cardinals' top tight end option, making Ertz's presence less critical.
Ertz, who has been on injured reserve due to a quad injury, has not been as impactful this season as he was upon his arrival in 2021.
Before Ertz can join a new team, he will need to clear waivers. The team claiming him would owe him $2.43 million, the remaining amount of his $11.605 million total cap hit for 2023.
Possible landing spots for Ertz include the Philadelphia Eagles, Baltimore Ravens, and San Francisco 49ers, all of whom could benefit from his experience and red-zone threat.