When the Philadelphia Eagles opened their practice window on Wednesday, the focus was clear: veteran long snapper Charley Hughlett was back in the mix. After the team released Cal Adomitis the day before, the Eagles signaled a return to the 10‑year‑old veteran who had been on the sidelines watching from the sidelines.
Practice Window Opens
The decision to bring Hughlett back came as the Eagles adjusted their roster after a season of injuries and adjustments. The practice window that opened on Wednesday marked the first time Hughlett was given a chance to rejoin the squad in a meaningful capacity since his release.
Hughlett’s Injury and Return
Hughlett, 35, began the season playing in the first four games before a core muscle injury required surgery. The injury forced him onto injured reserve on September 30, and he missed the final nine games of the year. Despite the setback, the Eagles had already indicated that they intended to return to him once he was healthy.
Adomitis’s Interim Role
With Hughlett sidelined, Cal Adomitis stepped in as the Eagles’ long snapper for the nine games that followed. Adomitis filled the role during a period that included a win over the Lions in Week 11, where he recorded two special‑teams tackles.
Team Perspective and Quotes
Special‑teams coordinator Michael Clay praised Adomitis’s performance while also acknowledging Hughlett’s readiness to return. He said, “Cal has done a really good job stepping in while Charley’s getting back to getting healthy out here, in protection and field goal snaps and getting down and making some plays and we showed him making a couple plays,” Clay added. “The other players, they get little oohs and ahs for him to go make a play.”
Signing Hughlett This Offseason
The Eagles signed Hughlett during the offseason after moving on from two‑time Super Bowl champion Rick Lovato. Lovato had retired after spending time with the Chargers this season, leaving a vacancy that the Eagles chose to fill with Hughlett’s experience.
Hughlett’s Browns Legacy
Before joining Philadelphia, Hughlett was the Cleveland Browns’ long snapper for ten seasons. He played in 152 career games, but only appeared in three postseason contests. In Browns history, he ranks 15th all‑time in games played.
The Decision’s Context
The release of Adomitis and the reactivation of Hughlett were part of a broader strategy to stabilize the Eagles’ special‑teams unit. With a veteran snapper familiar with the playbook and the coaching staff, the team aimed to reduce the risk of mis‑snaps in critical moments.
Player Development and Observation
During the weeks leading up to the practice window, Hughlett had been present at training sessions as a spectator. Coaches noted his focus on recovery and his willingness to learn from the team’s current play‑calling and protection schemes.
Impact on the Season
The Eagles’ decision to bring Hughlett back is expected to influence both the defensive and offensive lines. A reliable snapper can improve the timing of blockers, protect the quarterback, and ensure that field‑goal attempts are set up correctly.
Coaching Staff’s Confidence
Coaching staff members expressed confidence in Hughlett’s ability to reintegrate smoothly. Their statements highlighted his professionalism and the trust the team has in his skill set.
Adomitis’s Performance Highlights
Adomitis’s contributions were not limited to snapping. In the Week 11 victory over the Lions, he made two special‑teams tackles, demonstrating his versatility and commitment to the team’s defensive efforts.
Transition to the 2025 Season
Looking ahead, the Eagles anticipate that Hughlett’s return will help the team maintain consistency as they prepare for the next season. His experience is viewed as a stabilizing factor during a period of roster changes.
The Role of Experience
Hughlett’s decade‑long career has equipped him with a deep understanding of the game’s nuances. His presence is expected to benefit younger teammates who can learn from his approach to snapping under pressure.
Key Takeaways
- The Eagles released long snapper Cal Adomitis and reinstated veteran Charley Hughlett after his injury recovery.
- Hughlett had played the first four games of the season before a core muscle injury placed him on injured reserve on September 30.
- Adomitis filled the role for nine games, including two special‑teams tackles in a Week 11 win over the Lions.
- Special‑teams coordinator Michael Clay praised both players, noting Hughlett’s readiness and Adomitis’s solid performance.
- Hughlett’s 10‑season tenure with the Browns included 152 games, ranking 15th all‑time in the franchise’s history.
The Eagles’ roster move underscores the organization’s commitment to maintaining a reliable special‑teams unit. With Hughlett’s experience and Adomitis’s interim performance, the team aims to strengthen its foundation as the season progresses.
