Fantasy Football Insight: Selling Zach Ertz of the Washington Commanders in Week 8?

2024 NFL Fantasy Football: Washington Commanders and Zach Ertz – Time to Sell with Betting Insights

The 2024 NFL season has been a mixed bag for fantasy football managers, and no position has been more frustrating than tight end. One player who exemplifies this frustration is Ertz, now with the Commanders. Despite being a veteran presence, Ertz’s fantasy production has been underwhelming, with just one touchdown through seven games. In this column, we’ll dive into Ertz’s fantasy football prospects, the Commanders’ murky quarterback situation, and how bettors can approach these factors with a smart betting strategy.

Zach Ertz: An Underwhelming Fantasy Option

Ertz has always been known as a reliable target, particularly in the red zone, but his 2024 season has been disappointing. With just 25 catches and one touchdown in the first seven games, Ertz’s production has not lived up to fantasy managers’ expectations. While some may be tempted to hold onto him in the hopes of a turnaround, it might be time to move on.

At a DraftKings price of $4,200, Ertz isn’t exactly breaking the bank, but the lack of upside is concerning. For DFS (daily fantasy sports) purposes, there are better options even around the $3,800 to $4,300 range. Players like Cole Kmet of the Chicago Bears, who has been more involved in red-zone opportunities, offer more value for just a few hundred dollars more.

Fantasy Football Tip: Ertz is a sell. If you’re still rostering him, it’s time to find an alternative. Look for cheaper tight ends with more red-zone upside or consider spending up slightly for a more consistent producer.

Commanders’ Quarterback Situation: A Factor in Ertz’s Decline

One of the reasons for Ertz’s limited production is the uncertainty at quarterback for the Washington Commanders. Heading into Week 8, the Commanders’ offense is still trying to find its identity under head coach Dan Quinn. Whether it’s Marcus Mariota or another quarterback under center, the lack of stability impacts Ertz’s fantasy value.

Washington’s offensive inconsistency, combined with their struggles in the passing game, has led to fewer scoring opportunities for Ertz. While Mariota has historically favored his tight ends, the overall inefficiency of the Commanders’ offense limits Ertz’s potential to be a game-changer in fantasy.

Betting Insight: With a shaky quarterback situation, it’s wise to bet the under on Ertz’s receiving yards or receptions in prop bets, especially in games where Washington faces tough defenses. The Commanders’ offense simply hasn’t shown the consistency required to trust Ertz as a reliable target.

Tight End Market: Better Alternatives Than Zach Ertz

As much as fantasy managers want to trust veterans like Ertz, there are better alternatives on the tight end market this season. With Ertz catching just three balls for 35 yards in most weeks, it’s tough to justify keeping him in your starting lineup. Even with a touchdown in Week 7, the overall production hasn’t been enough to inspire confidence.

In contrast, players like Kmet, who has been a consistent red-zone threat, or up-and-comers like Tucker Kraft of the Green Bay Packers, provide more fantasy upside. The tight end position has been a headache this season, but there are still options worth considering.

Fantasy Football Tip: Move on from Ertz and invest in a more reliable tight end. Cole Kmet and others in the $3,800 to $4,300 range are better bets for DFS and season-long leagues alike.

Betting and Fantasy Outlook: Commanders Schedule Breakdown

Looking ahead, the Commanders face a tough schedule with several games where Ertz’s production could continue to lag. For fantasy football managers and bettors alike, the key will be knowing when to fade Ertz and possibly the entire Washington offense.

• Week 9 vs. Philadelphia Eagles: The Eagles’ defense has been dominant this season, especially against tight ends. Betting on the under for Ertz’s receiving yards or receptions is a strong play in this matchup.

• Week 11 vs. Dallas Cowboys: The Cowboys’ aggressive defense will likely make it difficult for Washington to move the ball consistently. Again, the under on Ertz’s yardage or even a “no touchdown" bet might be the smarter move.

• Week 13 vs. Miami Dolphins: The Dolphins’ high-scoring offense could force Washington into a pass-heavy game script, but with an inconsistent quarterback, it’s risky to expect big numbers from Ertz. Betting on Washington’s team total to go under could be a wise play here.

Betting Insight: With Washington’s upcoming matchups against tough defenses like Philadelphia and Dallas, it’s safe to fade Ertz in DFS and bet the under on his receiving props. Look for more promising matchups elsewhere in the tight end market.

Conclusion: Time to Move On from Ertz

Ertz may be a fan favorite and a respected veteran, but his fantasy football production in 2024 has not justified a spot in your lineup. The tight end position has been frustrating for many fantasy managers this season, and while Ertz has had his moments, the lack of consistency is too much to overlook.

With Washington’s quarterback situation still unsettled and the team struggling to generate offensive momentum, it’s time to look elsewhere. Both fantasy football managers and bettors should approach Ertz with caution, opting for more reliable options at tight end and considering betting the under on his weekly prop bets.

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