Philly Leader

Nearly three years ago, DeVonta Smith received a call from a 215 area code that would change his career. The Philadelphia Eagles had traded up in the first round of the 2021 NFL Draft to select him, the Heisman Trophy winner from the University of Alabama. Since joining the team, Smith has proven his worth as the 10th overall pick.

In 55 regular season and playoff games, Smith has amassed 267 catches for 3,583 yards and scored 20 touchdowns. He set a franchise rookie record with 916 receiving yards and followed it with consecutive seasons surpassing 1,000 yards and scoring seven touchdowns each year. In 2022, he briefly held the team record for most receptions in a season and concluded the year with a standout performance in the Super Bowl.

Smith's success is notable given that he shares targets with A.J. Brown, another accomplished receiver who has earned back-to-back Pro Bowl selections since joining Philadelphia two years ago.

"I've grown very close to (A.J.), it means a lot to be able to go out there knowing guys who have similar stories," Smith stated. "You got two guys that are happy for each other."

The Eagles recognized Smith's talent early on and recently rewarded him with a three-year contract extension through the 2028 season.

"It means a lot to me. It means a lot to my family," Smith said regarding his new contract. "All the long nights, early mornings that I've been putting in... it feels good to see that hard work paying off."

However, Smith emphasized that his journey is far from over: "The journey is not over. It's just starting."

Smith appreciates playing in Philadelphia despite high expectations from fans: "I understand expectations are high in the city... I embrace it because it just shows that the fans love it."

He has won over fans with his dedication, impressive skills on the field, humorous personality, and resilience despite concerns about his size before entering the league.

Reflecting on draft night three years ago, Smith remembers hearing his name called and anticipating reuniting with quarterback Jalen Hurts both on and off the field.

"You can always get better," he remarked. "There's no such thing as you've reached your peak... we'll keep doing it."