Three-time Pro Bowl tight end Zach Ertz has been granted his release from the Arizona Cardinals, according to his friend and retired edge rusher, JJ Watt. Ertz, who is eager to sign with a Super Bowl contender and secure a second championship ring, made the request to part ways with the Cardinals. The team later confirmed the release, allowing Ertz to finish the season elsewhere.

Ertz, whose career began with the Philadelphia Eagles after being selected in the second round of the 2013 NFL Draft, was an integral part of the franchise and contributed to a Super Bowl victory in 2018. However, he was traded to the Arizona Cardinals in October 2021.

Last season, Ertz suffered a season-ending knee injury, putting him out of action for the remainder of the year. Despite his setback, he returned this season after undergoing ACL surgery. As rookie tight end Trey McBride began to receive more targets in 2023, it appears that Ertz made the decision to seek a new team based on his understanding of his role in the Cardinals' future plans.

During his recovery process, Ertz found support from his friends and fellow athletes, JJ Watt and golfer Jon Rahm. Describing them as "amazing humans," Ertz said they were there for him to lend a listening ear or help take his mind off things during difficult times.

In addition to their shared experiences as athletes, Ertz, Watt, and Rahm are all married to former athletes. Julie Ertz, Zach's wife, retired this year as a two-time World Cup winner, while Kealia Watt, JJ's wife, played in the National Women's Soccer League. Meanwhile, Kelley Cahill Rahm, Jon's wife, was a collegiate athlete, excelling in javelin throwing at Arizona State.

As Ertz embarks on his search for a new football destination, he will likely continue to rely on the support of his close friends. Given Watt's track record of breaking news, it wouldn't be surprising if he continues to provide updates on Ertz's journey in the process.

In his time with the Arizona Cardinals, Ertz played in 28 games, amassing 130 receptions for 1,167 yards and eight touchdowns. With the desire to join a team with Super Bowl aspirations, Ertz is determined to add another championship ring to his collection before the conclusion of his illustrious career.