The 2026 season is going to be a massive one for Philadelphia Eagles wide receiver DeVonta Smith, as he is most likely taking over as the number one pass target in the offense, replacing A.J. Brown, who is expected to be traded in the next week or two.
Over the last four years, Smith has played second fiddle to Brown in the offense despite having three 1,000-yard seasons in that time span. Pro Football Focus writer Bradley Locker shared a list of 10 NFL players who have a chance to earn their first All-Pro seasons, with Smith being included.
"Smith may not have tons of plaques next to his NFL career so far, but he’s been a consistently above-average wideout. Since his pro debut in 2021, Smith ties for 20th in PFF receiving grade (89.4), and his 257 receiving first downs place 11th. On top of that, the Heisman Trophy recipient has never finished below a 77.1 receiving grade or 1.73 yards per route run in a single season.
Smith has largely fallen second fiddle to A.J. Brown over the last four years, but that’s expected to change given the team’s presumptive trade of the All-Pro. Now, Philadelphia’s offense should revolve around Smith in the passing game, while newcomers such as Makai Lemon and Dontayvion Wicks can operate as complements."
DeVonta Smith could finally get the respect he deserves in 2026
Before Brown was traded to the Eagles in 2022, Smith was a first-round pick in 2021 and was the leading receiver on the team with 916 yards and five touchdowns. Once Brown arrived, Smith was always the second target, but still put up big numbers without a Pro Bowl or All-Pro selection.
Last year was the first time Eagles fans believed Smith was the team's best receiver, as he led the team with 1,008 yards and four touchdowns, beating Brown for the first time in four years by five yards. The traits were there, showing Smith making all the catches and doing all the right things to be seen as the top receiver.
It has been reported this offseason that Smith has been calling around, seeking advice as he assumes the WR1 role in 2026. Everyone in the organization, including head coach Nick Sirianni and quarterback Jalen Hurts, believes Smith is ready to step into that role.
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Eagles fans are expecting big stats from Smith in 2026 and are excited to see him finally get his chance to shine bright as the number one guy.