Eagles Sign Britain Covey to Bolster Punt Return Game

In a move aimed at strengthening their special teams, the Philadelphia Eagles have re-signed wide receiver and punt return specialist Britain Covey to their practice squad as of Thursday. The 28-year-old player was released by the Los Angeles Rams after clearing waivers, filling a gap left when the Eagles cut both Ainias Smith and Avery Williams earlier in the week.

Covey, who spent three seasons with the Eagles before becoming a free agent in March, is returning to a team that has been searching for an experienced punt returner. During training camp, the Eagles did not find a clear candidate for the role. Although third receiver Jahan Dotson has experience handling punts at Penn State, he has yet to return one in the NFL. Rookie cornerback Cooper DeJean, who took over the punt-return duties last season while Covey was sidelined with injuries, is expected to be a key player on defense, which raises concerns about using him for special teams.

Covey’s Impressive Track Record

Originally undrafted out of the University of Utah in 2022, Covey has demonstrated his value in the return game. In the 2023 season, he averaged an impressive 14.4 yards on 29 returns, marking the third-best single-season record in Eagles franchise history, trailing only legendary players Brian Westbrook and DeSean Jackson. He led the league with 417 punt-return yards and ranked third overall in the NFL, behind Marvin Mims and Derius Davis.

Covey’s offensive contributions also include a career-high of six receptions in Week 2 of 2023, showcasing his versatility. However, his progress slowed in 2024, where he averaged just 9.3 yards on 33 returns and recorded no receptions due to injuries that restricted him to five games. Following the Eagles’ decision not to tender him as a restricted free agent, Covey signed a one-year deal with the Rams, only to be waived at the final roster cuts.

Strategic Moves for the Eagles

By re-signing Covey, Eagles general manager Howie Roseman retains the flexibility to elevate him for game days without using an immediate roster spot. In addition to Covey, the Eagles have also signed veteran safety Marcus Epps and offensive tackle Luke Felix-Fualalo to the practice squad. Epps, who previously played with the Eagles from 2019 to 2022, adds depth to a secondary that has been affected by Andrew Mukuba‘s hamstring injury. Felix-Fualalo, who has Australian and Polynesian heritage, fills the International Player Pathway exemption slot.

Covey’s return is particularly timely, given his career average of 11.3 yards per return, ranking him ninth among undrafted players with at least 50 returns and fourth in team history, behind Ernie Steele, Brian Mitchell, and Darren Sproles. He has recorded a total of 11 receptions for 76 yards throughout his career, including nine catches for 76 yards during preseason with the Rams. Covey is likely to be elevated for the Eagles’ upcoming Week 1 opener against the Dallas Cowboys, addressing a critical need in the punt return game.