Former Pro Bowl Eagles Player Struggles to Find New Team, Eyes Potential Reunion
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PHILADELPHIA, Pa. – A former standout long snapper for the Philadelphia Eagles, is facing an uphill battle in free agency. The 33-year-old, who last played for the Eagles in the 2024 season, has seen little interest from NFL teams and is now hoping for a return to Lincoln Financial Field, sources told NBC Sports on Friday.
Rick Lovato, a fan favorite, was a reliable presence for Philadelphia from 2016 to 2024, appearing in 130 consecutive games and earning a Pro Bowl nod in 2019. Known for his pinpoint snaps and clutch special teams tackles, he recorded 12 tackles over his Eagles tenure, including a career-high four in 2022. After signing a one-year, $1.2 million deal for 2024, Lovato became a free agent, but the market has been quiet.
“Philly’s my home,” Lovato said in a recent interview. “I’d love to keep snapping for Coach Sirianni and this team.”
At 6-foot-2, 249 pounds, Lovato’s consistency and special teams versatility remain appealing, but his age and the NFL’s preference for younger, cheaper long snappers have limited his options. Teams like the Pittsburgh Steelers and Kansas City Chiefs, both in need of special teams depth, have yet to reach out. In 2024, Lovato maintained a perfect snap record, with zero bad snaps on 142 attempts, per Pro Football Focus, but his two tackles marked a dip from prior seasons.
Lovato’s peak came in 2019, when his flawless snapping helped Jake Elliott convert 22 of 26 field goals, earning Lovato Pro Bowl honors. His hustle on punt coverage—often chasing down returners—endeared him to Eagles fans. However, a minor ankle tweak during a 2024 loss to Tampa Bay slightly hampered his mobility, though he played through it.
The Eagles, with $44 million in cap space, could entertain a reunion. Their current long snapper, rookie Jake McQuaide, has shown promise but lacks Lovato’s experience. Special teams coordinator Michael Clay, who praised Lovato’s “glue-guy” role, might push for a veteran presence to stabilize the unit, especially after a 2024 season plagued by inconsistent punting.
Fans are divided. “Lovato’s a legend—bring him back!” one posted on X. Another countered, “McQuaide’s the future. Rick’s had his run.” The Eagles’ recent draft pick, Texas long snapper Ethan Carter, suggests a shift toward youth, potentially sidelining Lovato.
“I know I can still deliver,” Lovato insisted.
A return isn’t certain. Philadelphia’s focus on younger talent and budget-friendly contracts may outweigh Lovato’s reliability. His deep ties to the city—born in nearby Middletown, New Jersey—and eight seasons in green keep his hopes alive, but will the Eagles open the door?
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