Griffin Hebert was signed to the practice squad by the Philadelphia Eagles on December 28, the organization announced.
After the 2023 NFL Draft, Hebert, an undrafted free agent out of Louisiana Tech, signed with the Seattle Seahawks. When the Seahawks completed their final roster cuts in late August, he was released.
Philadelphia also placed wide receiver Devon Allen on the Practice Squad Injured Reserve list in a comparable move. He’ll be out for at least the next four games.
The 24-year-old Hebert played both tight end and wide receiver for Louisiana Tech. Over his four undergraduate seasons, he caught 99 receptions for 1,532 yards and 14 touchdowns, averaging 15.5 yards per catch.
Here’s what draft analyst Lance Zierlein of NFL.com had to say about Hebert prior to the 2023 NFL draft:
Griffin Hebert powers his way to paydirt for @LATechFB and it's a one score game in the 4th!
📺 > https://t.co/AN9t9QLs9Y pic.twitter.com/DfB51Az98H
— Conference USA (@ConferenceUSA) October 3, 2021
Hebert’s athleticism makes him an intriguing prospect as a route runner. He can stretch the field as a deep play threat, and he has an impressive versatility as a player. Philly now lists him as a wideout, although he could potentially play fullback or halfback. He’s played wide receiver, tight end, and halfback in the past.
He had an outstanding Pro Day, running a 4.53 40-yard sprint.
In the 2023 preseason, he caught three receptions on four targets for 22 yards (3.7 yards after the catch), while playing 11 plays in the slot for Seattle. While he is unlikely to play this season, he could utilize the opportunity as an audition for next season.
In Britain, Covey, an Eagles UDFA, is making a name for himself this season.
Britain Covey, a wide receiver who joined the Eagles as an undrafted free agent out of Utah after the 2022 draft, is creating a name for himself on special teams.
“What a weapon. Do you all have votes for Pro Bowl? Please vote for him. Who is better at returning the ball than him? Who in the NFL is a better punt returner than Britain Covey?” Eagles head coach Nick Sirianni questioned a press conference after Philadelphia’s 33-25 victory over the New York Giants on Christmas Day. In that game, Covey had a career-high 54-yard punt return, allowing the Eagles to score early.
“He changes games,” Sirianni continued, referring to Covey. “He’s a unique returner.” He’s developed into a really remarkable football player who serves as a weapon for us. So, Philadelphia, go out and vote for Britain Covey in the Pro Bowl, because I haven’t seen anyone play or return the ball better than him. He’s a hottie.”
Perhaps Hebert won’t pan out, but given Covey’s recent success, it’s evident the Eagles have a flair for discovering and nurturing hidden stars.
