DeVonta Smith Poised for Breakout Season with Eagles
Philadelphia Eagles wide receiver DeVonta Smith is entering the upcoming season with unparalleled momentum, having recorded back-to-back 1,000-yard seasons. Smith's stellar performances have extended to the training camp, where he has emerged as a standout player, consistently making catches and displaying impressive skill throughout seven practices.
The 2023 season marks Smith's third year with the Eagles, and his contributions have already cemented his place in the team's history. With 240 receptions and 3,178 receiving yards in his first three seasons, Smith stands as the most productive receiver in franchise history over such a period. His position coach, Aaron Moorhead, has been effusive in his praise.
"He's had as good of a camp that he's had probably since I've been here with him," stated Moorhead. "His confidence is through the roof, and he's continuing just to master his craft." These words reflect the positive trajectory of Smith's professional development, which has been marked by his keen attention to detail and unwavering commitment to improving his game.
Smith himself remains focused on enhancing his football IQ and situational awareness. "You always want to improve your football IQ. That's something you can always grow on," said Smith. "There might be situations we have this year that we didn't run into last year. So situational football and football IQ." This mindset underscores Smith's dedication to elevating his performance and adapting to the evolving challenges of the sport.
A cornerstone of Smith's approach to the game is his commitment to doing his job to the best of his ability, regardless of whether or not he is the focal point of a particular play. "Making sure I'm doing my job. If I'm open and the ball doesn't come to me, for me, that's a plus because at the end of the day I still did my job. I was open," Smith explained. "So just going out there and making sure I'm putting the right things on tape."
Moorhead shares Smith's emphasis on attention to detail, stressing the importance of executing routine plays. "There are plays I think every year he's been here he's left on the field for certain things, and just maybe a technique here, a technique there, and things that would've been big plays for us in games. He knows that," Moorhead remarked. "Just doing the routine things. The plays that I left on the field, there were routine things that I wasn't doing. Making sure that I'm constantly doing the routine things so that I'm capitalizing on every play."
This dedication to consistency and execution is evident in Smith's performance during training camp, where he has showcased both his skill and commitment to improvement. Moorhead appreciates Smith’s meticulous nature, reinforcing the standards that the receiver has set for himself. "I have great receivers," Moorhead acknowledged, highlighting the depth of talent in the Eagles' receiving corps, with Smith leading the charge.
Smith’s achievements on the field have been complemented by his financial success off the field, as evidenced by a lucrative contract extension worth $25 million per year. Yet, despite this significant milestone, Smith remains grounded and driven by the desire to continually improve. "There's always room for improvement. Every year, you're gonna find something new that you're going to want to put in the toolbox," he affirmed.
As the Eagles prepare for the forthcoming season, the synergy between Smith and Moorhead exemplifies the collaboration and dedication needed for success in the NFL. With Smith’s burgeoning talent, relentless work ethic, and the guidance of a supportive coaching staff, the Philadelphia Eagles are poised to witness another stellar year from their star wide receiver.