Yesterday was a rough playoff debut for DeVonta Smith.

After not being targeted until there was 1:15 remaining in the first quarter, Smith finished with four receptions for 60 yards — most of them coming in the 4th quarter.

Following the frustrating end to the season, Smith was asked about Hurts and his future as QB1 in Philadelphia:

"I think he's going to be that guy."

— DeVonta Smith on whether or not Jalen Hurts has earned the trust of the Eagles organization to be the QB going forward

— Dave Zangaro (@DZangaroNBCS) January 17, 2022

“He’s grown a lot. He’s smarter, the decision-making that he does,” Smith said. “He works hard. He understands everything a lot more. Us being at practice, not just me and him but his connection with all the other receivers, the running backs, the O-line, just the communication as an offense, everything is getting better. And it’s only going to get better as we keep going.”

“I mean, he was a first-year starter and lead us to the playoffs. Everything is not going to be what you want it to be. You’re going to have ups and downs, you’re going to have little bumps here and there and when adversity strikes, he responds. I think he’s gonna be that guy.”

The duo didn’t have a perfect season as they were visibly not on the same page at times. The second-year QB did show signs of development down the stretch, however. Consistency and familiarity are valuable for a young receiver.

It’s evident that Hurts and Smitty have chemistry on and off the field — something the Eagles front office should keep in mind when thinking about the future. With DeVonta’s endorsement, allowing Hurts to lead the team for another year may be the best option.

100% certain Hurts would’ve like ran like hell on this play in Week 3. #Growth pic.twitter.com/w3thamTuTL

— Victor Williams (@ThePhillyPod) December 27, 2021

Mandatory Credit: Mitchell Leff | Getty Images