Eagles wasted no time finding Tristin McCollum's replacement with familiar face

Epps joined the Eagles in 2019 after being waived by the Vikings in November. He'd spend three and a half seasons in Philadelphia, appearing in 54 games (20 starts), recording 208 tackles and 15 pass deflections, providing value on defense and special teams, especially in 2022, when Epps appeared in 99% of the Eagles' defensive snaps.

What Epps can bring to the table a second time around for Eagles

Epps rejoining the Eagles instantly provides value and depth, especially with rookie Andrew Mukuba's status in jeopardy for Week 1 against the division rival Dallas Cowboys. Coupled with the Eagles waiving Tristin McCollum on Wednesday, the Eagles were down to three safeties, along with Cooper DeJean, who will be performing triple duty, between nickel, cornerback, and safety. Epps' sudden arrival may force him to "drink from the firehose" while Epps is familiar with the confines of Lincoln Financial Field, a lot has changed for the Eagles since his departure.

Calling the shots on defense now is Vic Fangio, who may remember Epps from their time together in 2022 when Fangio was serving as a consultant for the team. As it stands now, it appears that Sydney Brown will get the nod for Week 1, with Mukuba's availability in question, unless Epps can speed through Fangio's playbook by opening kickoff.

With injuries, depth, and the viability of Brown's play, the signing of Epps does give the Eagles a bit more stability and leverage if called upon. Epps' return does give Philadelphia's defense a bit more flexibility if he's called upon. Hopefully, for Fangio, Epps' role will stay primarily on special teams, with Mukuba and Dejean taking the majority of reps at safety on defense.