ESPN rookie stat projections: How will DeVonta Smith perform in 2021?

There’s a lot of intrigue surrounding the newest addition of the Eagles receiving core. Rookie WR DeVonta Smith had one of the most stellar careers in college football history and looks to carry his production over to the pros.

ESPN recently released their rookie stat projections and expect a big year from the Heisman winner in 2021:

Receiving yards

1. Ja’Marr Chase, Cincinnati Bengals: 1,003
2. DeVonta Smith, Philadelphia Eagles: 964
3. Jaylen Waddle, Miami Dolphins: 875
4. Kyle Pitts, Atlanta Falcons: 780
5. Rashod Bateman, Baltimore Ravens: 657

“This paints a very positive picture for Chase, Smith, and Waddle in 2021. Assuming they stay healthy, all three are positioned to play significant offensive roles out of the gate.”

Touchdowns from scrimmage

1. Najee Harris, Pittsburgh Steelers: 8
2. Ja’Marr Chase, Cincinnati Bengals: 7
3. Kyle Pitts, Atlanta Falcons: 6
4. Travis Etienne, Jacksonville Jaguars: 5
5. DeVonta Smith, Philadelphia Eagles: 5

“At 6-foot-1 and 208 pounds, Chase figures to see sufficient work near the goal line, whereas the weight of Waddle and Smith (both under 185 pounds) could limit output in that department a bit for them.“

Smith’s work ethic has gotten praise from several NFL players, ranging from Colts LB Darius Leonard to Hall of Fame WR Tim Brown. The “Slim Reaper” dominated the SEC over the last 3 seasons:

227 receptions
3,835 yards
43 TDs
16.9 yards/catch

Even when Smith was surrounded by first-round talent, he was still the most targeted receiver on Alabama over Jerry Jeudy, Henry Ruggs III, and Jaylen Waddle. His combination of speed, length, and agility will make him a dynamic threat in an offense yearning for explosiveness.