Jalen Hurts is staring down a big-time Week 4 matchup against the Rams, and he’ll be doing it without his absolute top target. Devonta Smith, Philadelphia’s lead wide receiver, is expected to be unavailable for Sunday’s game, a massive blow to an an offense already trying to work through some early season issues.
The Devonta Smith Impact
This is a huge problem. We’re only three games into the season, and the Eagles’ “offseason re-design” hasn’t exactly been firing on all cylinders. Running back Saquon Barkley still hasn’t scored a touchdown, and tight end Dallas Goedert is already sidelined with a knee injury. Now, their No. 1 receiver is out. Smith has been battling a hamstring injury for two straight weeks, even playing through it last Monday Night Football against the Bears. But it looks like this week, he just can’t go, not having practiced at all. This was supposed to be a monster year for Smith, especially with A.J. Brown gone, and he’s delivered so far, becoming Hurts’ clear favorite. Through three games, he’s got 27 targets , that’s 13 more than anyone else on the roster! , 19 receptions, 235 yards, and a touchdown. Remember that 117-yard performance against Tennessee? Yeah, that’s what’s missing.
Who’s Stepping Up?
So, who’s Jalen Hurts throwing to now? The depth chart gets real interesting, real fast. Dontayvion Wicks, who’s been the established No. 2 to Smith, is likely first in line for a huge uptick in targets. He’s been impressing with his separation early in the season, snagging nine passes for 179 yards and a touchdown already. This is his moment to shine.
Then you’ve got Makai Lemon, the first-round pick, who hasn’t done much through three games, totaling seven catches for 38 yards, despite Philadelphia trying to get him involved with screens. This could be his breakout opportunity. And let’s not forget Darius Cooper, who caught the game-winning touchdown pass from Jalen Hurts back in Week 2 against the Titans; he’s definitely getting a bigger role. Veteran Hollywood Brown could also factor in, though he also appears to be sidelined, per Tim McManus. That’s a lot of question marks for a “big-time matchup.”
This Sunday against the Rams isn’t just another game; it’s a huge test for the Eagles’ revamped offense and Jalen Hurts’ ability to adapt. With their top target out and other key players banged up or struggling, the coaching staff needs to dig deep and find ways to get these unproven guys involved. Every single snap is going to matter for how this offense finds its footing early in the season.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by The Sporting News.
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