DeVonta Smith's Stellar Performance Fuels Eagles Optimism
DeVonta Smith has emerged as a linchpin in the Philadelphia Eagles' offense. Coming off back-to-back 1,000-yard seasons, Smith’s extraordinary performance has caught the attention of both fans and coaches alike, establishing him as one of the brightest stars in the league. However, it's not just his on-field statistics that make him standout; it's his approach to the game and his ceaseless quest for improvement.
Smith's consistency during the Eagles' recent training camp has been nothing short of remarkable. His dedication and execution have impressed his position coach, Aaron Moorhead, who noted, "He's had as good of a camp that he's had probably since I've been here with him. His confidence is through the roof, and he's continuing just to master his craft." This level of performance at camp seems to be a continuation of his stellar on-field contributions, where he racked up a record-setting 240 receptions and 3,178 receiving yards in his first three NFL seasons—an achievement no Eagle has matched.
The Importance of Routine
Aaron Moorhead has consistently highlighted the significance of mastering routine plays, an area where Smith has shown considerable growth. "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," Moorhead emphasized. This focus on routine, rather than special plays, underscores Smith's dedication to maintain consistency and reliability.
Smith himself is equally aware of the nuances that make a good player great. He believes that his role goes beyond just making big plays. "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. So just going out there and making sure I'm putting the right things on tape," Smith articulated. This mindset highlights his commitment to the team's broader goals, even if it means he doesn't always come under the spotlight.
High Standards and Self-Improvement
Smith’s high standards for himself extend beyond the field. He constantly seeks to elevate his football IQ and situational awareness, recognizing that the learning process never truly ends. "You always want to improve your football IQ. That's something you can always grow on. There might be situations we have this year that we didn't run into last year. So situational football and football IQ," Smith stated. This commitment to intellectual and strategic growth underscores his holistic approach to the game.
Moorhead echoed similar sentiments, noting that Smith has always been committed to fine-tuning even the smallest aspects of his game. "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 observed. This meticulous attention to detail has set Smith apart, making him a crucial player for the Eagles.
A Bright Future
Smith's efforts and achievements have not gone unnoticed by the Eagles management. The organization showed its confidence in him by signing him to a contract extension worth $25 million per year. Such a substantial commitment speaks volumes about his importance to the team's future and their belief in his potential to lead them to greater heights.
Despite his accomplishments, Smith remains firmly grounded. "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 remarked. This perspective reflects his enduring ambition and drive to become better with each passing season.
With his extraordinary skill set, tireless work ethic, and perpetual quest for excellence, DeVonta Smith is not just a star in the making—he’s a star shining brightly. As the Philadelphia Eagles look ahead to the new season, Smith's remarkable combination of talent and tenacity will undeniably be one of their most valuable assets on the journey forward.