Throughout the history of the sport, many great athletes have stood out in College Football, with numerous others successfully making the leap to the NFL. It’s a privilege reserved for few, and even fewer go on to win a Super Bowl. The debate over the greatest of all time in various positions continues, and one current player on the Philadelphia Eagles roster believes he was the best wide receiver the NCAAF has ever seen.
Hailing from Amite High Magnet School, a young DeVonta Smith was taking his first steps in college football. After joining the Alabama Crimson Tide in 2017, the talented wide receiver began to show clear signs of his potential.
His extraordinary talent led him to win several titles during his time at Bama, including the CFP Championship. He was also awarded the Heisman Trophy, and at the start of 2021, he was selected in the first round by the Philadelphia Eagles, marking the most important leap of his career.
When asked about who he believes is the best wide receiver in College Football history, Smith didn’t hesitate to proclaim himself. “I’m number one,” he said on the podcast 7PM in Brooklyn.
DeVonta Smith #6 of the Alabama Crimson Tide warms up prior to the College Football Playoff National Championship game against the Ohio State Buckeyes at Hard Rock Stadium on January 11, 2021 in Miami Gardens, Florida.
Smith’s stellar career at Alabama
DeVonta Smith wisely chose to join the Alabama program after his time in high school, where he remained until the end of 2020. During his time there, he showcased an extraordinary level of dominance at his position, a talent he believed would translate seamlessly to the NFL.
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During his time with the Crimson Tide, where he is now under the leadership of Nick Sirianni with the Eagles, Smith racked up a total of 235 receptions for 3,965 receiving yards. Not only that, but he also scored 46 touchdowns in 54 games played for the Tuscaloosa program.
In his final season, Smith was recognized by his peers as the new recipient of the Heisman Trophy. On a team level, he helped lead Alabama to two National Championship titles, in 2017 and 2020.
The ultimate glory in the NFL
Wide receiver DeVonta Smith’s career clearly has no limits. Having accomplished everything in his college football journey, he is now continuing to make his mark, this time in the NFL.
On February 9th, the Philadelphia Eagles defeated Patrick Mahomes’ Chiefs 40-22, securing their second Super Bowl ring in the franchise’s history. Smith caught a 46-yard touchdown thrown by game MVP Jalen Hurts during the third quarter.
Smith’s stay in Philadelphia is guaranteed, as in April 2024, the former Alabama wide receiver signed a three-year, $75 million contract extension with the Eagles, meaning fans will be able to enjoy his talent for a few more years.
