DeVonta Smith is Primed for a Huge Second Season

Philadelphia Eagles wide receiver DeVonta Smith had a big day on the practice field Friday. His connection with quarterback Jalen Hurts has continued to progress as he heads into his second NFL season.

On the first play of 7-on-7, Hurts hit Smith for a 40-yard completion. Smith would also beat Pro Bowl cornerback Darius Slay on a nine-route down the right sideline for a 40-yard touchdown.

“During three sets of 7-on-7, DeVonta Smith has caught everything thrown his way, including two big-yardage receptions,” wrote Josh Tolentino of The Philadelphia Inquirer. “His footwork and hands remain pristine.”

Get our free mobile app

Philadelphia acquired AJ Brown from the Tennessee Titans on draft night to pair with the former Alabama All-American. He believes that the two of them can cause some serious problems for opposing defenses.

"In my opinion, Smitty is a wide receiver No. 1," Brown said Friday. "And he going against a cornerback No. 2, I expect Smitty to dominate. Just taking pressure off each other. Even being on the same sides, so you can't really double. It's great having another great wideout besides you."

Smith hauled in 64 receptions for 916 yards and five touchdowns as a rookie. Brown spoke about how refined the 23-year-old wide receiver is at this stage in his career.

"He's a really good route runner," Brown said of Smith. "Guys early on in their career, like first year, Year 2, they're still developing and he can run every route in the route tree. Just a little [nuances], little things that, of course, that we all can get better at. And just keep tuning up our game and keep developing. I think the sky's the limit for Smitty. So, I'm excited for him Year 2. I'm excited for the steps he takes."