As the Commanders prepare for their NFC Championship matchup with the Eagles, Zach Ertz explains why he compares JD5 to Andrew Luck.

Veteran Commanders tight end Zach Ertz knows all about the importance of keeping Daniels healthy in order for the franchise to deliver a Super Bowl, so it's no surprise that he was steamed over a hit that Detroit Lions defensive end Josh Paschal delivered on his quarterback in last Saturday's NFC divisional round playoff game.

Veteran tight end Zach Ertz signed a one-year deal to join the Commanders last offseason as a free agent, having appeared in seven games for the Cardinals in 2023.

During Saturday’s NFC divisional round win over the Lions, Detroit defensive end Josh Paschal was flagged for unnecessary roughness after he went up high on a hit to Daniels’ helmet. The Commanders quarterback was fine despite the penalty, but Ertz immediately came to the rookie’s defense.

Washington Commanders quarterback Jayden Daniels passes short right to tight end Zach Ertz who leaps over a defender for an 11-yard gain.

As early as the spring, the Commanders had a feeling Daniels would excel as a rookie. By the end of training camp, they were convinced.

Washington Commanders tight end Zach Ertz is recovering after his season came to an end in the NFC Championship against the Philadelphia Eagles. Ertz, 34, enjoy

Baltimore's Lamar Jackson, Buffalo's Josh Allen and Washington's Jayden Daniels won't be participating in the Pro Bowl Games this week.

Commanders tight end Zach Ertz said he knew right away, as early as training camp, that Daniels would be special because of his work ethic and humility. The 24-year-old newcomer also reminded Ertz of a former NFL star. "I compared him to Andrew Luck, which is the ultimate compliment," said Ertz in a report from ESPN's John Keim.

Zach Ertz was terrific for the Washington Commanders in their NFC championship loss to the Philadelphia Eagles. The longtime former Eagle caught 11 passes for 104 yards against his former team. It was his first 100-yard game of the season.

Patrick Mahomes and Josh Allen certainly are going to do their part. And Saquon Barkley might have his own chapter in the Commanders' defensive game plan. Nobody doubts the significance