The Arizona Cardinals can’t seem to catch a break.
The case of Zach Ertz continues that trend.
NFL insider Ian Rapoport delivered a devastating blow this afternoon regarding one of the Cardinals’ main pass-catchers.
Sources: #AZCardinals TE Zach Ertz has suffered a season-ending knee injury. A brutal reality for Arizona and its veteran.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) November 14, 2022
Before this injury, Ertz was having a great season, especially at the age of 32.
He was leading the Cardinals’ pass-catchers in targets and receiving touchdowns, and was third on the team in receiving yards as well.
To say that his presence will be missed is a true understatement.
What’s Next For The Cardinals Offense?
With Ertz gone for the season, the Cardinals will need to turn to a few of their other skill-position players to fill-in in the absence.
One player that could fill in this role nicely is rookie Trey McBride.
While McBride hasn’t had his number called much this year (9 games, 4 receptions, 4 targets for 31 yards), he had an impressive player profile from his time at Colorado State.
The Cardinals used a second-round pick on McBride, and with Ertz going out, it’s clear that they will try to see what they have in McBridge.
Another player that will likely see an increased workload is second-year player Rondale Moore.
In the 2021 draft, Moore was also taken in the second round.
The Cardinals are liking what they see out of him thus far.
He’s had 7, 8, and 9 catches in the past three games, and looks to only expand this role with Ertz out of the picture.
While we wish Ertz nothing but the best in his recovery, his absence will assuredly pave the way for increased playing time for some of the Cardinals youngsters.
NEXT: The Cardinals May Have A Major Injury Concern