Eagles’ DeVonta Smith Set to Shine in New Offensive Scheme

In a significant shift for the Philadelphia Eagles, the team’s offensive strategy is poised for transformation under new offensive coordinator Sean Mannion. This revamped system is expected to bolster the running game, offering enhanced opportunities for players like Saquon Barkley and Jalen Hurts. However, head coach Nick Sirianni has expressed particular optimism about the impact this change will have on wide receiver DeVonta Smith, entering his sixth season.

During a recent media session, Sirianni dismissed the notion that Smith has hit his peak performance. “I think he continually gets better,” he stated emphatically. “You saw him have a great year in 2025… Tough, smart football players with talent tend to reach their ceiling, and I think that’s what you’re seeing with DeVonta.”

Potential Changes in the Roster

The Eagles’ roster could undergo significant changes as speculation surrounds the future of A.J. Brown. Both Sirianni and general manager Howie Roseman offered vague responses regarding Brown’s status for the upcoming season during a session with journalists on February 20. Roseman noted, “There are a lot of conversations in the offseason about players on your teams, on other teams… We’re trying to get better, and it’s hard to do that if you’re just subtracting great players.”

Smith has consistently demonstrated his ability on the field, surpassing 1,000 receiving yards in three of his five seasons. In 2025, he led the Eagles with 1,008 yards on 77 receptions, narrowly outpacing Brown, who recorded 1,003 yards. Notably, Smith achieved a career-high of 1,196 yards in 2022, the same year Brown set a franchise record with 1,496 yards.

If the Eagles were to trade Brown, it would likely result in increased targets for Smith, further enhancing his potential for receptions and yardage. The Eagles could look to fill the void with a veteran free agent or an early-round draft pick. Additionally, the future of tight end Dallas Goedert, who could also enter free agency, remains uncertain.

Adapting to New Offensive Strategies

Despite the challenges that may arise, Sirianni is confident in Smith’s ability to adapt to the new offensive system. He acknowledged the importance of getting Smith the ball consistently. “Getting DeVonta Smith the ball, and getting him targets, is always going to be important for the success of our football team,” Sirianni remarked. “He does good things when he gets those opportunities.”

The Eagles’ running game, which struggled last season, will also be a focus of improvement. Barkley’s rushing total fell from 2,005 yards in 2024 to 1,140 yards last season. However, his performance improved as the season progressed, with an average of 4.7 yards per carry over the latter half of the season.

With Mannion at the helm, the team will introduce new blocking schemes and running strategies designed to maximize the offensive potential. Sirianni expressed confidence in Barkley’s adaptability, stating, “Great football players can fit into a lot of different offenses… He’s been highly productive in many of the schemes.”

The Eagles ranked 24th in total yards per game and 19th in points last season, indicating ample room for improvement. A healthier offensive line and a more dynamic Hurts will be crucial for elevating the team’s performance in Mannion’s system. Should these adjustments be successful, Smith stands to benefit significantly, thriving as a primary target regardless of Brown’s status.

As the Eagles prepare for the upcoming season, the focus will be on how effectively they can implement these changes and leverage their key players, particularly Smith, to foster a winning culture. “You’re seeing him continue to do these things and make plays only that he can make on the football field,” Sirianni concluded, highlighting Smith’s potential in the new offense.

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