At one point in training camp, Parris Campbell was seen as a favorite to not only make the Philadelphia Eagles final roster but also be a key member of their offense.
Things changed drastically for the veteran receiver after the trade for Jahan Dotson and Campbell's camp injury. While the former Giant and Colt has competed on the practice squad, his standing in Philadelphia is no more.
The Eagles released Campbell Tuesday afternoon.
While Campbell's release may not mean much to the average fan, there's a sign of something bigger going on for Philadelphia's offense. Fifth-round rookie receiver Ainias Smith has been on injured reserve for the first half of the regular season.
As a special teams ace, his impact on the 2024 season could have been seen solely in that regard.
Campbell's release could be a sign that the Eagles are prepared to get Smith back from injury, and would love to test him out as the team's kick and punt returner.
The job normally would go to Britain Covey, but the top punt returner is on injured reserve of his own.
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With defensive coordinator Vic Fangio's push to have slot cornerback and backup punt returner Cooper DeJean focus solely on defense, the Eagles are looking for backup roles for him on special teams.