The Philadelphia Eagles have opened a 21-day practice window for tight end Albert Okwuegbunam to return from injured reserve, as announced by the team.
Okwuegbunam was placed on IR in August while the Eagles were finalizing their roster cuts from 90 to 53 players. The team utilized a new rule that allowed him to be placed on IR before the cuts, making him eligible to return this season. This is a change from the previous requirement that players placed on IR before the cuts would be out for the entire season. The Eagles also used this mechanism for Ainias Smith, whose practice window was opened last week.
The timing of Okwuegbunam’s return is likely connected to Dallas Goedert’s potential absence due to a hamstring injury, which may lead the Eagles to activate Okwuegbunam as a third tight end alongside Grant Calcaterra and Jack Stoll.
However, it’s worth noting that Okwuegbunam may not be the ideal depth option. He has not contributed on special teams, playing just five snaps in that capacity since joining the NFL in 2020. While he has the potential as a pass-catcher, he struggled to demonstrate that ability during offseason practices.
The Eagles have 21 days to decide whether to activate him to the roster; otherwise, he will remain on IR for the remainder of the season.
