DeVonta Smith Draws Praise From NFL Legend Amid A.J. Brown Trade Buzz
The Philadelphia Eagles' wide receiver group continues to draw attention throughout the NFL offseason. With veterans DeVonta Smith and A.J. Brown, along with rookie first-round pick Makai Lemon, they could form a dangerous trio.
However, the three may never play a regular-season snap together. Brown has been at the center of trade rumors off and on for several years now. ESPN's Tim McManus reports that the three-time Pro Bowler is expected to be traded this offseason and that the New England Patriots are "the most likely destination."
Moving on from Brown would make Smith the clear-cut top receiver for Philadelphia.
The last time that happened was his rookie season in 2021. He led the team in receptions (64), yards (916) and touchdowns (five). One year later, in 2022, the Eagles acquired Brown, who immediately overtook that role.
Smith becoming the premier target in Philadelphia is something former NFL wide receiver Steve Smith Sr. is ready to see. During ESPN's "Get Up," the 2025 Pro Football Hall of Fame finalist praised the former Alabama Crimson Tide pass catcher.
"He's been waiting, and biding, chomping at the bit for his opportunity," Smith Sr. said. "A.J. Brown is an alpha and I will say he's 1A. DeVonta Smith is 1B… They're going to move him around and he's going to shine and show you that he's a hell of a wide receiver."
"DeVonta Smith, he's a number 1 wide receiver. He's been waiting for this opportunity."
— Get Up (@GetUpESPN) May 29, 2026
Steve Smith Sr. on the Eagles' WR room after a potential A.J. Brown trade pic.twitter.com/Oi2DogN0ZA
Over the past five seasons, Smith has been a consistent producer for the Eagles. He has accumulated 385 receptions, 5,019 yards and 31 touchdowns. He is also entering the first season of a three-year, $75 million contract, adding pressure for increased production.
Smith Sr, who carved out a 16-year career in the NFL and has the eighth-most receiving yards in league history (14,731), sees a great deal of upside in the 27-year-old. With Brown's time in Philadelphia trending toward an end, Smith could be positioned for a significantly expanded role.
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This story was originally published May 29, 2026 at 2:19 PM.