50 Facts About Zach Ertz

Early Life and Background

Zach Ertz's journey to NFL stardom began long before he donned a professional jersey. His early years were filled with experiences that shaped his future.

1. Born on November 10, 1990, in Orange, California, Zachary Adam Ertz grew up in a sports-loving family.
2. His father, Doug Ertz, played college football at Lehigh University, inspiring Zach's passion for the game.
3. Zach has four younger brothers, making for a lively household full of competition and camaraderie.
4. He attended Monte Vista High School in Danville, California, where he excelled in both football and basketball.
5. In high school, he was named to the All-East Bay Athletic League first team as a junior and senior.

College Career at Stanford

Zach's talent on the field earned him a spot at Stanford University, where he continued to impress.

6. Ertz played for the Stanford Cardinal from 2009 to 2012, redshirting his freshman year.
7. In 2010, he played in all 13 games, contributing significantly to the team's success.
8. During the 2011 season, he caught 27 passes for 346 yards and four touchdowns.
9. His breakout year came in 2012 when he led the team with 69 receptions for 898 yards and six touchdowns.
10. Zach was a consensus All-American in 2012, highlighting his exceptional performance.

NFL Draft and Early Professional Career

Zach's college success paved the way for his entry into the NFL, where he quickly made a name for himself.

11. The Philadelphia Eagles selected Ertz in the second round of the 2013 NFL Draft, 35th overall.
12. He signed a four-year contract with the Eagles on May 9, 2013.
13. In his rookie season, he played in all 16 games, recording 36 receptions for 469 yards and four touchdowns.
14. Ertz's first NFL touchdown came in a game against the Arizona Cardinals on December 1, 2013.
15. By his second season, he had become a key player for the Eagles, catching 58 passes for 702 yards and three touchdowns.

Rise to Stardom

Zach's career continued to ascend as he established himself as one of the league's top tight ends.

16. In 2015, he set a career-high with 75 receptions for 853 yards.
17. He signed a five-year contract extension with the Eagles in January 2016, worth $42.5 million.
18. Ertz recorded his first 100-yard game on December 20, 2015, against the Arizona Cardinals.
19. In 2017, he was named to his first Pro Bowl after catching 74 passes for 824 yards and eight touchdowns.
20. Zach played a crucial role in the Eagles' Super Bowl LII victory, catching the game-winning touchdown pass.

Super Bowl LII and Beyond

Zach's performance in Super Bowl LII cemented his legacy in Philadelphia and the NFL.

21. In Super Bowl LII, Ertz caught seven passes for 67 yards and a touchdown.
22. His fourth-quarter touchdown gave the Eagles a lead they would not relinquish, securing their first Super Bowl title.
23. Following the Super Bowl, he continued to be a top target for the Eagles, catching 116 passes in 2018, setting a new NFL record for receptions by a tight end.
24. He was named to the Pro Bowl again in 2018 and 2019, showcasing his consistent excellence.
25. Zach has been a team captain for the Eagles, demonstrating his leadership on and off the field.

Personal Life and Philanthropy

Beyond football, Zach is known for his contributions to the community and his personal life.

26. Zach married Julie Johnston, a professional soccer player for the U.S. Women's National Team, in March 2017.
27. The couple met at a Stanford baseball game while they were both student-athletes.
28. Together, they founded the Ertz Family Foundation, which focuses on providing opportunities for youth through sports and education.
29. Zach and Julie are known for their philanthropic efforts, including hosting charity events and supporting various causes.
30. They have a dog named Jersey, who often appears in their social media posts.

Records and Achievements

Zach's career is filled with numerous records and accolades that highlight his impact on the game.

31. He holds the Eagles' franchise record for most receptions in a single season with 116 in 2018.
32. Zach is the fastest tight end in NFL history to reach 500 career receptions, achieving the milestone in just 102 games.
33. He ranks among the top tight ends in NFL history for career receptions and receiving yards.
34. Ertz has been named to the NFL Top 100 Players list multiple times, reflecting his peers' respect for his abilities.
35. He has been a finalist for the Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year Award, recognizing his community service and excellence on the field.

Challenges and Comebacks

Zach's career hasn't been without its challenges, but his resilience has always shone through.

36. In 2019, he played through a rib injury, showcasing his toughness and dedication to the team.
37. He faced contract disputes with the Eagles in 2020, leading to speculation about his future with the team.
38. Despite the uncertainties, he continued to perform at a high level, catching 36 passes for 335 yards in the 2020 season.
39. In 2021, he was traded to the Arizona Cardinals, marking a new chapter in his career.
40. Zach quickly adapted to his new team, catching a touchdown pass in his debut game with the Cardinals.

Future Prospects

As Zach continues his career, fans eagerly anticipate what lies ahead for this talented tight end.

41. He signed a three-year contract extension with the Cardinals in March 2022, ensuring his presence on the team for the foreseeable future.
42. Zach aims to break more records and achieve new milestones with the Cardinals.
43. He remains a key player in the Cardinals' offense, known for his reliable hands and route-running skills.
44. Ertz's experience and leadership are invaluable to the young players on the team.
45. Fans and analysts alike predict that Zach will continue to be a dominant force in the NFL for years to come.

Fun Facts and Trivia

Here are some lesser-known facts and trivia about Zach Ertz that fans might find interesting.

46. Zach is an avid golfer and often plays during the offseason to relax and unwind.
47. He has a close friendship with fellow NFL tight end George Kittle, and the two often train together.
48. Ertz is known for his love of country music and has attended numerous concerts of his favorite artists.
49. He has appeared on various television shows and podcasts, sharing insights about his career and personal life.
50. Zach is active on social media, where he engages with fans and shares updates about his life and career.

Zach Ertz: A Remarkable Journey

Zach Ertz's career showcases dedication, talent, and resilience. From his early days at Stanford to becoming a key player for the Philadelphia Eagles, Ertz has consistently proven his worth on the field. His record-breaking performances, including the most receptions by a tight end in a single season, highlight his exceptional skills. Off the field, Ertz's charitable efforts, like the Ertz Family Foundation, demonstrate his commitment to giving back to the community. His journey isn't just about football; it's about making a difference. As fans, we can appreciate not only his athletic achievements but also his contributions to society. Zach Ertz's story is a testament to hard work, perseverance, and the impact one individual can have both in sports and beyond. Whether you're a football enthusiast or someone who values community service, Ertz's journey offers inspiration and admiration.