Eagles: 3 non-QB options in 2021 NFL Draft after Jalen Hurts news
By Mark Sipos
1. Devonta Smith, Wide Receiver, Alabama
Grabbing Jalen Hurts a true #1 target has to be a priority this off-season. The Eagles have been lacking a stud at wide receiver for years, though it is not for a lack of trying.
Philadelphia has spent multiple high draft picks on wide receivers the last few seasons. Since 2017, the Eagles have drafted six wide receivers: Mack Hollins, Shelton Gibson, JJ Arcega-Whiteside, Jalen Reagor, John Hightower, and Quez Watkins. Of these six, Mack Hollins has the most career receiving yards with 527. Most have had injuries that have derailed their young careers, while others just have not found their footing in the NFL.
The Eagles will also be releasing veteran receiver Alshon Jeffery. A pro bowler in 2013, Jeffery has not been able to stay healthy, only being able to play in 30 of the last 48 games. With Desean Jackson already released, the Eagles overhaul of the wide receiver room is well underway. While the two leading wide receivers from last season will be returning, Greg Ward and Travis Fulgham are more complementary pieces than true targets. Grabbing a talent like Devonta Smith would be an instant upgrade.
A former college teammate of Hurts, Smith was the best player in college football last season, winning the Heisman trophy while on his way to helping Alabama win the college football national championship. The sure-handed Smith has the skill set to be the true elite wide receiver that the Eagles have been desperately searching for. Smith is a polished route runner who has the best after-the-catch ability. While Smith’s size is a bit of a concern, his explosive skill set is undeniable and would give Hurts the main target that he needs.