Former Cardinals TE Zach Ertz Joining Lions

ARIZONA -  Former Arizona Cardinals TE Zach Ertz is joining the Detroit Lions, according to numerous reports.

NFL Media's Tom Pellisero says Ertz will begin on Detroit's practice squad with an opportunity to be elevated for next weekend's NFC title game against the San Francisco 49ers. 

"All the injuries made finding depth for the TE room necessary for the Lions. Adding a savvy veteran at this stage is about as good an addition as a team can hope for," said Pelissero. "Ertz reunites with former Arizona tight ends coach Steve Heiden in Detroit, which should aid in getting the veteran up to speed ahead of Sunday's contest."

Ertz rebounded from a serious knee injury suffered last season and began the year as Arizona's starting tight end, though he again landed on injured reserve thanks to a torn quad and the Cardinals saw the takeover of Trey McBride in the offense. 

The eventual departure - which happened at Ertz's request before Week 13 - was mutual and "brewed for weeks" according to various people.

It's also worth mentioning Ertz has plenty of experience facing the 49ers, an NFC West rival of Arizona's.

In seven games this season, Ertz caught 27 of 43 targets for 187 yards and one touchdown. Philadelphia and Baltimore were believed to be two other teams to watch for Ertz's presence.