The Philadelphia Eagles are making a bold move that could reshape their roster dynamics and redefine the role of one of their brightest young stars, Cooper DeJean. Known for his electrifying punt returns last season, DeJean may be stepping away from that responsibility as the team looks to lighten his load and prioritize his versatility on defense.
DeJean, a dynamic defensive back, has been juggling an increasingly demanding role. Between locking down the slot, taking on new safety duties, and handling punt returns, his plate is overflowing. While he’s still fielding punts in practice to stay sharp, the Eagles appear to be leaning toward a future where DeJean’s special teams duties take a backseat. The reasoning? To maximize his impact on defense while preserving his energy for a grueling NFL season.
Enter Avery Williams, a free-agent acquisition who could be the key to this transition. Signed in the offseason, Williams brings a proven track record as both a punt and kickoff returner from his three-year stint with the Atlanta Falcons. Despite missing spring OTAs due to an injury, Williams has been turning heads in training camp, showcasing his dual-return capabilities. In a league where roster spots are gold, having one player handle both return roles is a strategic advantage the Eagles are eager to exploit.
But Williams isn’t the only contender vying for the return job. Rookie Ainias Smith, a former Texas A&M standout, is making a compelling case to claim the role. Smith, who racked up 82 punt returns for 836 yards and two touchdowns over five college seasons, has shown marked improvement since arriving in Philadelphia. Special teams coordinator Michael Clay has been particularly impressed with Smith’s progress, noting his enhanced footwork, reliable hands, and newfound confidence.
“Ainias has done a really good job of just improving his feet, his hands,” Clay said. “He’s put in the work. You can definitely tell in the offseason, wherever he was training, and from OTAs to now, he’s just more confident—calm, cool, and collected back there, which has been great.”
Smith’s journey hasn’t been without challenges. Last season at Texas A&M, he struggled with drops and appeared to press under pressure, compounded by an injury during camp. However, the rookie has returned to camp looking revitalized, ready to prove he’s the explosive returner the Eagles need. “We’re excited to see him in live action as we move forward,” Clay added, hinting at Smith’s potential to shine in preseason games.
For DeJean, the shift away from punt returns isn’t set in stone, but it’s a move that makes sense. Last season, he stepped up admirably when Britain Covey was sidelined by injury, delivering 21 returns for 211 yards, with a long of 31 yards. His ability to change games with his speed and vision was undeniable, but the Eagles are cautious about overloading their star defender. “Once we get closer to the regular season, we’ll have a better feel,” Clay said. “But as of now, do I feel it? Probably not. You never know if he wants to be out there, and if the player wants to be out there, he wants to be out there.”
For now, the Eagles are focused on developing their younger returners, giving Williams and Smith the chance to prove they can handle the high-stakes role. If either can seize the opportunity, it could free DeJean to focus on becoming a defensive cornerstone, while ensuring Philadelphia’s special teams remain a weapon. As training camp heats up, all eyes will be on the battle for the return job—and whether DeJean’s days as a punt returner are truly behind him.