Washington, DC – April 09, 2025, 02:33 AM PDT
Zach Ertz, now with the Washington Commanders, was labeled a “bust” by his former Arizona Cardinals head coach, Jonathan Gannon.
Gannon, speaking on the “Up & Adams” show, criticized Ertz’s tenure with the Cardinals, saying, “He was a bust—didn’t meet expectations.”
Ertz, traded to the Cardinals from the Eagles in 2021 for CB Tay Gowan and a 2022 fifth-round pick, recorded 574 yards and 4 TDs in 21 games over two seasons.
His lackluster performance, compared to his 1,163-yard 2018 season with the Eagles, led to his release in 2023, after which he briefly joined the Lions’ practice squad.
Following Gannon’s comments, Ertz sent a 7-word message to Eagles GM Howie Roseman, venting his frustration over the trade: “Howie, you’re a fraud who deceived me.”
Ertz’s message reflects his belief that Roseman’s decision to trade him to Arizona set him up for failure, damaging his career trajectory.
Now with the Commanders, Ertz had a resurgent 2024, recording 66 catches for 654 yards and 7 TDs, but the “bust” label clearly stung the veteran tight end.
Eagles fans on X had mixed reactions, with @EaglesNation posting, “Ertz was great here—Roseman made the right call,” while @PhillyFanatic said, “He’s no bust—Gannon’s just bitter!”
