DeVonta Smith Continues to Impress in Eagles Training Camp
Philadelphia Eagles wide receiver DeVonta Smith is proving once again why he is one of the most electrifying talents in the NFL. Coming off back-to-back 1,000-yard seasons, Smith has been a standout performer in the Eagles' training camp, demonstrating both his consistency and stellar work ethic.
Smith's performance has not gone unnoticed by his position coach, Aaron Moorhead. "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," Moorhead said. Indeed, Smith's confidence and mastery are evident as he consistently makes catches during the team’s seven practices.
With 240 receptions and 3,178 receiving yards in his first three seasons, Smith has already etched his name in the Eagles' record books. His 3,178 receiving yards are the most any player has accumulated in Philadelphia during their first three seasons. Yet, Smith remains resolutely focused on improvement. "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 reflected.
Smith's desire to elevate his game goes beyond mere stats. He has set lofty standards for himself, emphasizing the importance of being open and executing his role, regardless of whether the ball comes his way. "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 explained.
The attention to detail and routine plays is a hallmark of Smith's approach, one greatly appreciated by Moorhead. "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 noted. "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."
Smith's consistency and drive extend beyond the practice field. Earlier this year, he signed a contract extension worth $25 million per year, a testament to his value to the team and his place among the league's elite receivers. Yet, he remains grounded and focused on continuous improvement. "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 said.
The synergy between Smith and his position coach is palpable, and it undoubtedly plays a crucial role in his continuous development. Moorhead's appreciation of Smith’s effort and attention to detail is mutual. "I have great receivers," Moorhead asserted, highlighting the quality and dedication of his receiving corps.
Smith's exceptional performance in training camp and his hunger for improvement bode well for the Eagles as they gear up for the new season. As he strives to elevate his game even further, fans and analysts alike will be keenly watching to see what new heights DeVonta Smith can reach.