In a recent interview, DeVonta Smith made a bold statement that has Eagles fans buzzing with excitement: he considers his quarterback, Jalen Hurts, to be among the Top 5 quarterbacks in the NFL. As the Philadelphia Eagles’ star wide receiver and one of the NFL’s most promising young talents, Smith’s endorsement of Hurts speaks volumes about the chemistry between the two and the trust they’ve built over their time together in Philly.

This declaration comes after Hurts’ breakout season, where he not only led the Eagles to a Super Bowl appearance but also proved himself as one of the most dynamic quarterbacks in the league. Smith, who has been Hurts’ go-to receiver since their college days at Alabama, shared his admiration for his quarterback’s growth, leadership, and exceptional abilities on the field.

A Dynamic Duo

The connection between Jalen Hurts and DeVonta Smith has been nothing short of electric. Both players have risen together, from their college championship run to their partnership in Philadelphia, and their bond has been crucial to the Eagles’ offensive success.

In the 2022 season, Hurts took his game to another level. He finished as a MVP finalist, leading the Eagles to a 14-3 record and an NFC Championship. Hurts showed off his dual-threat ability, throwing for over 3,700 yards and rushing for an additional 760 yards with 13 rushing touchdowns. His ability to make plays with both his arm and his legs makes him a constant threat, and Smith has been one of his biggest beneficiaries.

Smith’s Confidence in Hurts

Smith’s belief in Hurts’ abilities reflects a deep respect for his leadership and growth as a quarterback. The duo has developed a strong on-field rapport, with Smith finishing the 2022 season with over 1,000 receiving yards and multiple highlight-reel catches, often courtesy of Hurts’ pinpoint accuracy and ability to extend plays.

Smith’s praise for Hurts as a Top 5 quarterback comes after a season in which Hurts showed growth in key areas, particularly in his passing accuracy, pocket presence, and decision-making. Hurts’ leadership was on full display, not just in his stats but in his ability to inspire confidence in his teammates. It’s clear that Smith, who has worked closely with Hurts, sees the potential for even more greatness in the years to come.

Why Jalen Hurts Deserves the Top 5 Spot

There are several reasons why DeVonta Smith believes Hurts belongs in the Top 5 quarterbacks in the NFL:

Dual-Threat Ability: Hurts is not just a passer; he’s a dual-threat quarterback who can take over games with his legs as well. His ability to rush for touchdowns and make plays on the ground makes him incredibly difficult to defend.

Maturity and Leadership: Hurts has grown immensely in his time with the Eagles. What stood out during the 2022 season was his poise under pressure and his leadership. Whether it was in the NFC Championship Game or the Super Bowl, Hurts showed that he could keep his team in the hunt when it mattered most.

Improved Passing: One of the biggest criticisms of Hurts in his early years was his passing ability, but he has proven doubters wrong. He developed a much more consistent deep ball and was one of the most accurate quarterbacks in the NFL last season. Hurts can now make all the necessary throws, from deep bombs to sideline fades, and he’s improved his timing with receivers like A.J. Brown, Dallas Goedert, and of course, DeVonta Smith.

Winning Mentality: Hurts exudes confidence, not cockiness, and he plays with a chip on his shoulder. After being doubted in his early years, he used that fuel to elevate his game. This underdog mentality has been a driving force behind the Eagles’ success and has earned him the respect of his teammates, coaches, and fans.

Playoff Performance: Hurts was outstanding in the 2022 playoffs, leading the Eagles to the Super Bowl and putting up one of the best performances by a quarterback in a title game. He threw for 304 yards and 1 touchdown, and rushed for 3 touchdowns in a game that showed he’s capable of stepping up in the biggest moments.

A Bright Future Ahead

With the foundation of his success, Jalen Hurts is only getting started. At just 24 years old, he has already proven that he has what it takes to lead a team to the Super Bowl, and his potential continues to rise. If he continues to develop and refine his skills, there’s no doubt that Hurts will cement himself as one of the top quarterbacks in the league for years to come.

For DeVonta Smith, the endorsement of Hurts as a Top 5 quarterback is just the beginning. The bond between the two will likely only strengthen, and as the Eagles continue to build around their dynamic duo, they will be a team to watch for years to come in the NFC.

Conclusion

DeVonta Smith’s assertion that Jalen Hurts is among the Top 5 quarterbacks in the NFL is more than just a teammate’s praise—it’s a recognition of Hurts’ incredible rise in the league. After an MVP-caliber season, Hurts has proven that he’s not only a top-tier quarterback but one of the most dangerous and complete quarterbacks in the game.

As the Eagles look to maintain their status as one of the NFL’s elite teams, the bond between Smith and Hurts will continue to be a driving force for success. With both players hungry to achieve even greater things, the future for the Eagles looks as bright as ever.