Zach Ertz has been around the NFL for over a decade. He has seen when a team has a strong culture built and when that culture is nonexistent.
In the case of the Washington Commanders, though, after years of carrying the moniker of a dysfunctional organization, the team appears to be on the right path for the first time in decades.
So much so that Ertz made it clear he wanted to re-sign with the team when given the opportunity this offseason.
"It's just different," Ertz said. "It really feels like a family. That cliche gets thrown around so much in our profession, but I would say this place really does feel like a family because people really do care about other people's success."
Since Josh Harris and his ownership group bought Washington, the Commanders have turned overnight into a respectable organization. One that could be a thorn in the side of other contenders moving forward.
And it's not just Ertz that thinks so on the team.
"I think it's become pretty unanimous around the league that they are just running this place really well," said offensive tackle Foster Sarell. "The players love being here, and coaches love working here. I think that is super appealing, because that matters a lot."
The Commanders have seemingly improved their culture overnight. It's amazing what happens with 14 wins and a trip to the conference championship can do for an organization.
