Bucky Brooks walks back his concerns about DeVonta Smith

Bucky Brooks is already walking back the concerns he had about DeVonta Smith at the next level. Following the reigning Heisman Trophy winner’s preseason debut, the NFL.com analyst sweetened his opinion on Smith’s ability to fill the role of the Philadelphia Eagles’ top pass catcher.

“DeVonta Smith just logged his preseason debut, but upon first blush, it sure looks like he is more than capable of filling the role as the Eagles’ No. 1 receiver,” wrote Brooks.

Originally, Brooks had concerns about various aspects of Smith’s game, but mostly his size and strength. 

“Personally, I had my reservations about Smith making an immediate impact due to his underwhelming size and strength,” wrote Brooks. “With the physicality, speed and tempo of the pro game, I had concerns about Smith creating consistent separation against top defenders. 

“Sure, the Alabama product lit the football world on fire last year with 117 catches for 1,856 yards and 23 touchdowns (!) in 13 games, but dominating as a collegian is vastly different than owning NFL defensive backs.”

DeVonta Smith is an artist

While Smith had just two receptions for 19 yards in the Eagles 35-0 loss to the New England Patriots, he still convinced one doubter. After watching the former Alabama wide receiver create separation and get open throughout his time on the field, Brooks became convinced.

“It appears his game does indeed translate to the highest level,” Brooks wrote, following Smith’s debut. “Seeing Smith work at Alabama was like watching an artist paint a masterpiece, and the rookie’s artistry is still on full display in Philly.”

While the Eagles are going through a transitional period with their franchise, Smith will be a key piece to their success both this season and in the future. If he plays anything like he did at Alabama, he may end his career with a statue next to Rocky Balboa.

‘It felt good just to get out there.’

Throughout the summer, Smith has been plagued with a sprained MCL. However, his knee looked all healed up last night. Afterwards, the wide receiver spoke about how good it felt to be out there.

“It felt good just to get out there and get back in a groove with my routine before the game and stuff like that,” Smith said, per Chris Franklin of NJ.com. “Just to get back out there and get back to myself.”

Aside from Bucky Brooks, the biggest believer DeVonta Smith gained last night was former Cincinnati Bengals great, Chad Ochocinco. The former NFL wide receiver let his excitement shine through, uncensored, via Twitter. 

“Do y’all f**** see Devonta Smith off the line of the got d*** scrimmage, holy pigeon s*** that m*f* gone be nice,” Ochocinco tweeted.

Translation: Smith made some noise in his preseason debut. Expect the volume to turn up to eleven when the season rolls around.