PHILADELPHIA — Seeking stability in the return game, the Eagles brought back wide receiver and punt return specialist Britain Covey, signing him to their practice squad on Thursday.
The 28-year-old cleared waivers with the Los Angeles Rams, filling a hole created when the Birds cut Ainias Smith and Avery Williams earlier in the week.
Covey spent three seasons here but became a free agent in March after his contract was up.
The Eagles lacked an experienced punt returner, and no clear candidate emerged in training camp. Third receiver Jahan Dotson handled punts at Penn State but has never returned in the NFL. Rookie cornerback Cooper DeJean — who assumed punt-return duties a year ago, when Covey was out with shoulder and neck injuries — is projected to play virtually every defensive snap, making coaches wary of using him on special teams
Covey, originally undrafted out of Utah in 2022, offers proven production. In 2023 he averaged 14.4 yards on 29 returns, the third-best single-season mark in franchise history behind Brian Westbrook’s 2003 season and DeSean Jackson’s 2009 campaign. Covey led the league with 417 punt-return yards and ranked third in the NFL behind Marvin Mims and Derius Davis
He also logged a career-high six catches in Week 2 of 2023, showing he can help on offense if needed.
Covey’s rapid rise stalled in 2024. He averaged 9.3 yards on 33 returns in his rookie season but had no receptions. His injuries limited him to five games last season. When the Eagles opted not to tender him as a restricted free agent, he became unrestricted
Philadelphia added Avery Williams during the offseason, so Covey signed a one-year deal with the Rams. Los Angeles waived him at final cutdowns, and he cleared waivers without a team claiming him
By re-signing him, general manager Howie Roseman kept open the option of elevating Covey for game days without immediately using a roster spot.
The Eagles also signed veteran safety Marcus Epps and offensive tackle Luke Felix-Fualalo to the practice squad. Epps, who was with the organization from 2019 to 2022, provides depth in a secondary thinned by Andrew Mukuba’s hamstring injury. Felix-Fualalo, of Australian and Polynesian origin, fills the International Player Pathway exemption slot.
Covey’s addition, however, addresses a pressing need. His 11.3‑yard career average is ninth highest among undrafted players with at least 50 returns and fourth best in team history, trailing only Ernie Steele, Brian Mitchell and Darren Sproles.
As a receiver, he has 11 career receptions for 76 yards. With the Rams this preseason, he caught nine passes for 76 yards.
Covey is a good bet to be elevated for the Week 1 opener against Dallas.
https://www.mcall.com/2025/08/28/eagles-bring-back-britain-covey-to-return-punts-2/
