The Detroit Lions bolstered their roster for the NFC Championship game by signing tight end Zach Ertz earlier in the week. However, despite just three days of practice, and with a trip to the Super Bowl at stake, the Lions ultimately decided against playing him.

Ertz was signed to the Lions’ practice squad on January 24, aiming to provide additional depth to a position that had been significantly affected by injuries. Nonetheless, the Lions chose not to elevate Ertz for the January 28 game against the San Francisco 49ers, a decision that generated surprise and curiosity among some fans.

Insider Explains Detroit’s Move

The Lions made an announcement on Saturday, revealing that they had elevated two players from their practice squad for Sunday’s game: fullback Jason Cabinda and offensive lineman Michael Schofield. The decision not to elevate the veteran Ertz prompted questions from fans. Mike Payton of AtoZ Sports explained that it was likely a challenging task for Ertz to be ready in time for the game.

“I know it seems weird, but Ertz has been here for three whole days,” Payton wrote on X. “That’s just not enough time to learn a playbook. Even if he did play on Sunday, it was more than likely going to be in a limited capacity. He was not going to be a big difference in this one.”

Zach Ertz, a three-time Pro Bowler and Super Bowl champion with the Philadelphia Eagles, contributed 27 catches for 187 yards and one touchdown in seven games during the current season with the Arizona Cardinals. Ertz was waived in November after expressing his desire for release.

According to former Cardinals teammate J.J. Watt’s statement on X, Ertz “plans to sign with a contender and make a run at his 2nd Super Bowl ring.”

The Lions had faced tight end injuries, but breakout rookie Sam LaPorta, who had suffered a knee injury in the season finale, returned to full practice. Having played in the first two playoff games, LaPorta was removed from the injury report for the NFC title game. Unfortunately, backup tight end Brock Wright was lost for the season after sustaining an arm injury in last week’s win.