Philadelphia will have a new primary punt returner in 2025.
Britain Covey is leaving the Philadelphia Eagles in free agency to sign a one-year deal with the Los Angeles Rams, according to an official team announcement.
Covey was originally set to be a restricted free agent this offseason but the Eagles predictably opted not to offer him an RFA tender that would’ve cost them just under $3.3 million. They instead let Covey, who turned 28 in March, test the open market as an unrestricted free agent.
There was originally thought that the Eagles could re-sign Covey at a lower number but they apparently moved on from him when they signed free agent wide receiver/return specialist Avery Williams (who is now wearing Covey’s old No. 18 jersey number). The Eagles also recently signed undrafted rookie free agent wide receiver Giles Jackson, who also has a lot of returning experience.
It’s interesting to see that the Eagles seemingly soured on Covey after he previously proved himself as one of the best punt returners in the NFL. Perhaps they had concern about his medical status after multiple injuries (including a neck issue) limited him to just five of 21 games played in 2024.
Though he only spent three years in Philly, it’s safe to say Covey exceeded relatively low expectations as an undrafted rookie free agent signing. The Super Bowl LIX champion has done well for himself to this point and it’ll be interesting to see if he can make the Rams’ regular season roster.
Meanwhile, the Eagles will need a new primary punt returner in 2025. It’s possible the aforementioned Williams will take over that role. Cooper DeJean filled in for Covey last season but Vic Fangio doesn’t seem keen on him taking hits as a returner. Ainias Smith, Adoree’ Jackson, Mac McWilliams, Taylor Morin, and the aforementioned Giles Jackson are other Eagles players with punt returning experience.