Philadelphia Eagles wide receiver DeVonta Smith continues to impress as he enters another season with the team, coming off two consecutive 1,000-yard campaigns. Smith's prowess on the field has been evident during the Eagles' training camp, where he has consistently made catches over seven practices. His position coach, Aaron Moorhead, has taken note of Smith's exceptional performance and burgeoning confidence.
"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 stated, reflecting on Smith's development and self-assurance. Such high praise from his coach indicates that Smith is poised for another standout season.
Smith's dedication to his craft is further underscored by his personal goals. He is continuously striving to enhance his football IQ and situational awareness, key components that can elevate his game to new heights. "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 explained, highlighting his commitment to learning and growth.
High standards are a hallmark of Smith's approach to football. His meticulous attention to detail ensures that he performs his role effectively, regardless of whether or not 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 said, demonstrating his focus on execution and team success.
Moorhead has also noted Smith's improvement in executing routine plays, an area that can often be overlooked but is crucial for consistent performance. "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. Smith's awareness of these missed opportunities and his determination to correct them is a testament to his drive for perfection.
In Smith's first three seasons with the Eagles, he has already set impressive records, with 240 receptions and 3,178 receiving yards—more than any other player in the franchise's history during that period. Such achievements have not gone unnoticed, earning him a lucrative contract extension worth $25 million per year. Yet, despite these accolades and financial rewards, Smith remains humble and dedicated to self-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," Smith remarked, acknowledging that the quest for excellence is a continuous journey. This mindset has undoubtedly contributed to his consistent performance and ability to stay at the top of his game.
Moorhead's appreciation for Smith extends beyond his on-field performance to his overall attitude and approach to the game. "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 commented, emphasizing the importance of reliability and consistency in football.
The partnership between Smith and Moorhead serves as a foundation for ongoing success. With a coach who recognizes his potential and a player who is committed to refining his skill set, DeVonta Smith is well-positioned to continue making significant contributions to the Philadelphia Eagles. As the new season approaches, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how this dynamic wide receiver builds on his impressive achievements and pushes the boundaries of his capabilities even further.