Entering his fourth season in the NFL, wide receiver and return specialist Britain Covey was a restricted free agent this offseason. The Philadelphia Eagles did not tender the former undrafted playmaker, making him an unrestricted free agent. A month after the start of free agency, however, Covey remains unsigned.
Starting the season as Philadelphia's punt returner, Covey suffered a broken scapula in Week 3 against the New Orleans Saints. This had come at an unfortunate time as Covey was increasing his offensive role during the injury absences in the wide receiver room. Upon his return to action in Week 12, Covey wasn't able to carve out a role for himself. At that point, star rookie Cooper DeJean had taken over the punt return duties and there was no room in the WR rotation, either.
Eagles Should Consider Re-Signing WR/PR Britain Covey
Despite this, the Eagles should seriously consider bringing back Covey. Not only is his familiarity with the organization and the coaching staff useful, but he also needs to take over return duties.
DeJean is an excellent punt returner, but he is far too important for this team defensively. Defensive coordinator Vic Fangio said throughout the season how he doesn't like the fact that DeJean has such a big return role, making him susceptible to injury.
When Covey is healthy, he is one of the best return men in the league. He averaged an impressive 14.4 yards per return in 2023, one of the best marks in the NFL. Perhaps he doesn't have the same upside DeJean has, but the Eagles have to be smart about how to use one of their best defensive players.
Covey will likely never be a part of the offense, but he is someone the Eagles could break out in cases of emergency. He is at least a name Philadelphia should bring to training camp before making a final decision.