NFL 2022: 3 wide receivers expected to have big sophomore seasons

ATLANTA, GEORGIA - SEPTEMBER 12: DeVonta Smith #6 of the Philadelphia Eagles catches a 18-yard touchdown pass from Jalen Hurts #1 (not pictured) against the Atlanta Falcons during the first quarter at Mercedes-Benz Stadium on September 12, 2021 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Todd Kirkland/Getty Images) /

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Photo by Sarah Stier/Getty Images /

NFL sophomore receivers: DeVonta Smith gets help in Philadelphia

Jalen Hurts is playing under a microscope this season. Uncertain of his future, the Eagles’ front office has held their current starter in an auditioning phase.

After two years with the franchise, the staff decided to build around the idea of leaning on Alabama’s former standout-starting with the 2021 NFL Draft.

Taking receivers early has not benefitted the birds in previous drafts. Their decision to add Jalen Reagor to the roster in 2020 has yet to pay off.

Fortunately for Philadelphia, DeVonta Smith has shown glimpses of how dynamic he can be. His 14.3 yards per catch is a testament to how dangerous he can be in the open field.

Philadelphia’s sophomore receiver will also have a scapegoat this season. The trade between the Tennessee Titans added A.J Brown to the offense. The six-foot-one receiver will bring size to the Eagles’ receiving core.

Brown has used his frame to record close to 3,000 career receiving yards. His 24 touchdown career touchdowns will help the Eagles take the scoring load off Smith, giving him more room to become a receiving threat.

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