Eagles Favor Undrafted Rookie Over Cooper DeJean for Return Duties

The Eagles may have made one of the most intriguing minicamp decisions this offseason, as reports suggest that undrafted rookie is being given the early edge in the battle for punt return duties — ahead of highly touted second-round pick Cooper DeJean.

While no final decisions have been made, this development is already generating buzz in Philadelphia, especially given the expectations surrounding DeJean’s versatility and athleticism. But the coaching staff may be playing the long game — and the move could make sense in more ways than one.

---

Why Ainias Smith Is Getting the Early Look

Smith, a dynamic playmaker out of Texas A&M, brings college experience as both a wide receiver and special teams returner. Known for his quick-cutting ability and fearless return style, he handled return duties in the SEC against elite competition.

At Eagles minicamp, Smith reportedly looked poised and natural fielding punts, earning extra reps during special teams drills. His college tape shows a player who can make the first man miss — and in today’s NFL, that’s often the difference between 5 yards and 25.

“He’s got juice,” one team source said. “You can tell he’s done this before.”

While the Eagles haven’t confirmed Smith as the regular-season returner, early signs suggest he could earn a roster spot through special teams — just like Britain Covey once did.

---

Cooper DeJean’s Role May Be Bigger Than Returns

DeJean, meanwhile, is viewed as one of the Eagles’ most versatile defensive prospects in years. Capable of playing outside corner, nickel, and even safety, the rookie has been focusing almost exclusively on learning the defensive scheme.

Rather than overloading him with return duties, the Eagles appear to be preserving DeJean’s energy and focus for defensive snaps, especially given the uncertainty surrounding the CB2 battle opposite Darius Slay.

From a fantasy football sleepers 2025 perspective, DeJean could still hold return value later in the season — but for now, it looks like Philly wants him locked in on defense.

---

Depth Strategy or Roster Signal?

It’s worth noting that these early reps don’t always reflect final roster decisions. However, this may be a strategic move by the Eagles to:

• Evaluate Smith’s upside before roster cuts

Protect DeJean’s health and development

Create returner competition to avoid complacency

With NFL Super Bowl odds keeping the Eagles among top contenders, depth in all three phases of the game — offense, defense, and special teams — becomes even more critical.

And for betting picks NFL watchers, Ainias Smith could be a sneaky player to monitor if he makes the 53-man roster.

---

More to Read:

• Fantasy Football Sleepers: Could Ainias Smith Be This Year’s Covey?

NFL Super Bowl Odds Update: Eagles’ Special Teams Could Tip the Balance

Best NFL Betting Apps With Return TD Prop Bets

Training Camp Watch: Return Specialist Battles to Know

Rookie Spotlight: Cooper DeJean’s Versatility and Long-Term Role