DeVonta Smith: A Model of Consistency and Continual Improvement
DeVonta Smith, the dynamic wide receiver for the Philadelphia Eagles, has been turning heads this offseason. Smith, who has recorded back-to-back 1,000-yard seasons, is coming off a standout performance in the Eagles' training camp, drawing high praise from 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 remarked.
An Unmatched Work Ethic
Smith's dedication to refining his skills is not lost on those around him. According to Moorhead, Smith's meticulous attention to detail and determination to perfect routine plays have been instrumental in his development. "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 said. Smith himself acknowledges this necessity for improvement, expressing his commitment to boosting his football IQ and situational awareness.
"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. His approach underscores his understanding that mastery in football extends beyond physical prowess to encompass mental sharpness and situational adaptability.
Aiming for Excellence
Smith's high standards for himself are evident in his play. Despite his impressive statistics, including 240 receptions and 3,178 receiving yards in his first three seasons, Smith continually strives for consistency and reliability. He's been a consistent presence in making catches during seven practices this training camp, a testament to his persistent work ethic. His focus on executing his role, even if it doesn't lead to personal glory, demonstrates his team-first mentality.
"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 emphasized. This perspective highlights his commitment to the team's success over individual accolades.
A Bright Future Ahead
Moorhead appreciates Smith's relentless efforts to excel in every facet of 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 noted. With his coach's guidance and his own tenacity, Smith is poised to maintain his upward trajectory in the NFL.
Smith's recent contract extension, worth $25 million per year, is a testament to both his current value and anticipated future contributions to the Eagles. The organization clearly sees his potential for ongoing growth and leadership on the field. Smith himself remains unfazed by the financial figures, focusing instead 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.
Aaron Moorhead, summing up his group's capabilities, remarked, "I have great receivers." This simple yet powerful statement encapsulates the high regard in which Smith is held within the Eagles' camp. As he prepares for the upcoming season, DeVonta Smith stands as a paragon of consistency, dedication, and perpetual self-improvement, ready to once again lead the Eagles' receiving corps to new heights.