Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts (1) offered encouragement to his former Alabama teammate. Eric Hartline-USA TODAY Sports

Rekindled DeVonta Smith-Jalen Hurts connection makes Eagles offense more dangerous

By Sean Barnard | Last updated 9/21/22

Through the first two weeks, the Eagles' offense has opened eyes, with quarterback Jalen Hurts looking unstoppable in his third season. Now there is more bad news for opponents: second-year wideout DeVonta Smith is getting more involved.

In the Week 2 win over the Vikings, Smith caught all seven of his targets for 80 yards, second to tight end Dallas Goedert's 82 yards.

It was clear from the start that the Eagles wanted to pass to Smith, who in Week 1 against the Lions was held without a catch for the first time in the NFL. A 155-yard receiving performance from A.J. Brown against the Lions left Smith with only four targets.

Following that game, Hurts offered encouragement to his former Alabama teammate.

Before heading out to the podium, #Eagles Jalen Hurts passed DeVonta Smith inside the locker room. Hurts gave Smith a pat on the back, and told him: "That's a dub! You gon' get yours, too."
— Josh Tolentino (@JCTSports) September 11, 2022

While Brown has emerged as another big-time target for Hurts, do not forget what Smith can offer. He set an Eagles rookie receiving record by hauling in 64 receptions for 916 yards in 2021. His elite route running and quick feet make him an electrifying weapon in the open field.

Brown, who's 6-foot-1 and 215 pounds, and Smith complement each other's style of play.

Smith is an elite route-runner with great hands, but his lean frame (6-0, 170) will always be a cause for concern. Brown's presence will force opponents to use their most physical corner on the former Titans standout, opening more opportunities for Smith.

"DeVonta Smith is a great playmaker. Not a good playmaker, a great playmaker."

-- Nick Sirianni agrees that they need to get Smith involved more
— Dave Zangaro (@DZangaroNBCS) September 12, 2022

Believe it or not, Brown could allow Smith to fly under the radar and become a dynamic weapon capable of an 1,000-plus-yard receiving season. Through two weeks, the Eagles lead the NFL in total offense with 941 yards.

With the emergenece of Hurts, and the dynamic duo of Brown-Smith, expect the Eagles' offfense to soar even more in 2022.

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