The Detroit Lions are hoping for a bounce-back season in 2026. After entering last year with Super Bowl aspirations, things didn’t go as planned.
When all was said and done for the 2025 campaign, the Lions missed the playoffs. That has left a sour taste in the mouths of head coach Dan Campbell and the team.
Heading into the 2026 season, the expectations are high. Many are expecting Detroit to get back to being a championship caliber football team. However, there are ways the Lions could give themselves of having a better championship chance.
Keeping that in mind, Detroit has been named a potential suitor for a three-time Pro Bowler late in NFL free agency.
Detroit Lions Named Potential Suitor for Tight End Zach Ertz
Sam LaPorta is one of the best tight ends in the NFL when he’s healthy. That being said, there have been some tough injury concerns for LaPorta throughout his young career.
Adding a more reliable backup tight end could be a wise decision.
SportsNaut’s Andrew Buller-Russ has named the Lions as one of the potential suitors for sign free agent tight end Zach Ertz. He is back at full health following a torn ACL and is looking for a home ahead of the 2026 season.
“If there’s anyone who can appreciate good tight end play, it’s Dan Campbell, who played the position for 10 seasons in the NFL,” Buller-Russ wrote.
“While the Detroit Lions love who they have as a starter with Sam LaPorta, Ertz would give Jared Goff yet another red-zone option. There’s a lot of tight end competition in Lions training camp, and Ertz would certainly help elevate everyone’s play.”
What Would Zach Ertz Bring to the Lions’ Offense?
At 35 years old, Ertz may no longer be the star tight end that he once was. He is still capable of being an impact player.
During the 2025 season with the Washington Commanders, Ertz played in 13 games before the ACL injury. He racked up 50 receptions for 504 yards and four touchdowns. Back in 2024, he caught 66 passes for 654 yards and seven scores.
Signing Ertz wouldn’t be the move that powers the Lions to the playoffs and beyond. But, he’s the kind of high-quality depth player that championship caliber teams need.
Whether or not Detroit actually has interest in Ertz or not remains to be seen. Despite that fact, it’s a pairing that could make a lot of sense for both parties.
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