Marcus Epps’ Return Could Spark Eagles’ Defense in Key Clash Against Chargers
PHILADELPHIA – The Philadelphia Eagles are poised for a significant boost to their defense with the opening of the practice window for veteran safety Marcus Epps. After being placed on Injured Reserve following a Week 8 triumph over the New York Giants on October 26 due to an undisclosed injury, Epps is now eligible to make his return. His availability comes after the Eagles’ disappointing Black Friday loss to the Chicago Bears on November 28.
Epps, a product of Wyoming, was originally selected in the sixth round of the 2019 NFL Draft by the Minnesota Vikings. He made his mark by appearing in eight games during his rookie season before being waived and subsequently claimed by the Eagles. His journey took a significant turn in 2022 when he emerged as a starter, contributing to the Eagles’ run to Super Bowl LVII. This success earned him a two-year contract with the Las Vegas Raiders, where he started 20 consecutive games until a season-ending ACL injury derailed his 2024 campaign.
In March, Epps signed a one-year deal with the New England Patriots, but his stint was short-lived as he was released on August 26. Just two days later, he made a return to Philadelphia, joining the practice squad. The Eagles elevated Epps to the game-day roster for the first three weeks of the season and promoted him to the 53-man roster on September 24. Over the first eight games of the season, he primarily contributed on special teams, logging 119 snaps and 15 defensive snaps.
A Defensive Need for Reinforcements
With rookie starter Drew Mukuba sidelined due to a fractured ankle, the Eagles turned to third-year safety Sydney Brown to pair with Reed Blankenship. Unfortunately, Brown’s performance against the Bears raised concerns, highlighting the urgent need for Epps’ return.
The Eagles are operating under a 21-day window to activate Epps from Injured Reserve, with the possibility of his return coinciding with the Monday night matchup on December 8 against the Los Angeles Chargers, who share a record of 8-4 with Philadelphia. Epps’ return would be particularly poignant as it brings him back to near his hometown at SoFi Stadium.
Currently, the Eagles’ safety depth is thin, with only Blankenship and Brown on the 53-man roster. Last week, the team elevated Andre’ Sam from the practice squad for the game against the Bears, while cornerback Michael Carter has taken on backup safety duties alongside his role in the slot. Adding to the team’s challenges, veteran defensive back Parry Nickerson was released from the practice squad on Tuesday. Nickerson, a sixth-year player from Tulane, had participated in five games this season, having been signed to the active roster ahead of the Week 4 victory over the Buccaneers before being waived and subsequently re-signed.
As the Eagles prepare for this crucial stretch, the potential return of Marcus Epps could be the spark they need to fortify their defense against a formidable Chargers offense.
