The Philadelphia Eagles are determined to win back-to-back Super Bowls. To strengthen their roster, the team has made several key acquisitions, including a position specialist who will play a crucial role in supporting Jalen Hurts and Saquon Barkley in their pursuit of another championship.
The 2024 NFL season was remarkable for the Eagles. Although they had a slow start, they quickly bounced back, finishing the regular season with an impressive 14-3 record.
In the playoffs, Nick Sirianniâs squad proved to be a legitimate contender. They overcame the heavily favored Kansas City Chiefs in Super Bowl LIX, capping off their season in the best possible way.
Eagles acquire a position specialist after key departures in free agency
Philadelphia is widely considered one of the most complete teams in the NFL today. Under Nick Sirianniâs leadership, the franchise has built a powerhouse roster, and their efforts paid off when they lifted the Vince Lombardi Trophy earlier this year.
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However, the Super Bowl-winning roster will undergo some changes this season. The Eagles have lost several key players in free agency, forcing the front office to act swiftly to fill the void left by their departures.
At the start of free agency, Philadelphia announced that Kenneth Gainwell and Isaiah Rodgers would not return for the 2025 season. The two players combined for 26 of the teamâs 33 kickoff returns last year, leaving a major hole in special teams that needed immediate attention.
On Friday, the Eagles addressed this issue by signing return specialist Avery Williams to a one-year deal, as confirmed by his agency, Aura Sports Group. Williams is expected to take over as the teamâs primary kickoff and punt returner for the 2025 season.
Avery Williams, new returner of the Philadelphia Eagles
Last season, Cooper DeJean handled 21 of the teamâs 28 punt returns, but he is expected to focus more on his defensive duties this year. Meanwhile, Williams, who spent the past three seasons with the Atlanta Falcons, recorded 35 combined punt and kick returns in 2024.
Avery Williams: A key addition to the Eaglesâ roster
With Gainwell and Rodgers no longer on the team, Nick Sirianni prioritized finding a reliable replacement. Williams emerged as a strong candidate, making him a valuable addition to Philadelphiaâs special teams unit.
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Williams has showcased his versatility throughout his career. He entered the NFL as a cornerback for the Falcons in 2021 before transitioning to running back. However, he has since solidified himself as a premier return specialist, a role he will now take on for the Eagles in 2025.
