DeVonta Smith, Philadelphia Eagles. (Photo by Mitchell Leff/Getty Images)
DeVonta Smith returning to practice is wonderful news for Jalen Hurts.
With first-round rookie wide receiver DeVonta Smith returning from a knee injury, this is incredible news for Philadelphia Eagles’ second-year quarterback Jalen Hurts.
Though there were teammates on the Alabama Crimson Tide in the SEC before, this is the NFL. While Philadelphia is not expected to have a great first season under new head coach Nick Sirianni, how Hurts and Smith grow in the passing game will go a long way towards the Eagles being on the rise entering 2022. With Smith back in practice after sustaining a knee injury, this is a start.
The Eagles are counting on Hurts and Smith to have a strong rapport throughout this season.
Philadelphia Eagles: DeVonta Smith’s return is great news for Jalen Hurts
The Eagles used their first-round pick on the 2020 Heisman Trophy winner out of Alabama. While Smith dominated in the SEC, his slight frame was seen as a cause for concern in his NFL evaluation. Would he be able to stay healthy and play a full 17-game season? As for Hurts, 2021 is all about seeing him take the next step as an NFL passer. We know he can run, but can he throw?
If all goes according to plan, Smith and Hurts will make each other better players for the Eagles. They will have established a strong connection in their first year back working with each other. Should they take flight, Philadelphia will have solved two issues on rebuilding its offense at two very important positions. They are the biggest reasons to have hope in the Eagles this season.
The only way the Eagles don’t finish in last in the NFC East is if Hurts and Smith play well together.