DeVonta Smith Records First Career 100-yard Receiving Game

DeVonta Smith became the first Eagles rookie with a 100-yard receiving game since Jordan Matthews in 2014. The former Alabama wide receiver caught seven passes for 122 yards on 10 targets. His 122 yards are the fifth most by an Eagles rookie in team history, they are also tied for the most receiving yards against the Kansas City Chiefs this season. Smith reeled in a 34-yard touchdown, but the play was nullified because of an illegal touching.

The performance came after Smith had compiled 11 receptions for 115 receiving yards over his first three games. It had been a quiet couple of weeks for Smith after exploding onto the scene in the Eagles week one victory over the Atlanta Falcons, hauling in six receptions for 71 yards and a touchdown. And the first time since 2018 that Smith had fewer than 30 yards in back-to-back games.

Smith talked earlier this week about how to improve his chemistry with quarterback Jalen Hurts. “Just the timing with me and Jalen,” Smith said. “Just that and overall just executing as an offense. Just every little detail. Every little thing matters. So if one thing is wrong that’s going to stop anything (good) from happening.”

On Sunday, the 2020 Heisman trophy winner showcased his elite hands, route running and body control that made him a top-10 pick in this years NFL draft. Smith did an excellent job attacking the football and creating after the catch.

He connected with Hurts for a 37-yard completion late in the second quarter. The very next play, Smith laid out for a tremendous 12-yard reception. The rookie leads the Eagles in receptions with 18 and receiving yards with 237 through four games.

Despite the loss, Philadelphia fans should be encouraged with Smith’s performance on Sunday. The Eagles will travel to Charlotte to face the Carolina Panthers in week five.