Philadelphia hasn’t been able to call their wide receiver group “elite” in quite some time, but they can finally do that this season.
Eagles wide receivers A.J. Brown and DeVonta Smith have both surpassed 1,000+ receiving yards, becoming the first duo to do so in the same season, in franchise history.
Both players are also ranked in the top-six for most receptions in a season by an Eagles wide receiver. And, the best part is, they still have two more regular-season games to go.
EAGLES WIDE RECEIVER DUO
DeVonta Smith, joined the Eagles last season, setting an Eagles’ rookie record for most receiving yards in a single season with 916. Though he had an adequate season, expectations were high that he would play well in 2022, and he delivered.
Through 15 games, Smith has 79 receptions, ranking sixth in Eagles’ history for most receptions by an Eagles wide receiver. He’s also completed 1,014 receiving yards and seven touchdowns. In Philadelphia’s last four games, Smith finished with 100-yard game three times.
Matching Smith, is A.J. Brown who also recorded three 100-yard games in the last four weeks. Brown joined the Eagles this season after he was traded from the Tennessee Titans, and is playing a career-best. In 15 games, he has 80 receptions, ranking fifth in franchise history. He’s also recorded 1,304 receiving yards and ten touchdowns.
In the league, Brown is the only player with 1,200 yards and 16 yards per catch. He is also just 106 yards away from setting a franchise record for the most receiving yards in a season. Mike Quick currently holds that title from 1983.
When asked about Quick’s record, Brown stated, “I’d be lying to say it doesn’t mean anything. But I’m trying to channel my focus in other directions, (like) me doing what I have to do to make plays for my team on critical downs. We’ll handle all the records and all the other type of stuff (later). It’s a blessing to even be that close to his record.”
THE BATMAN TRIO
The benefit to Philadelphia rebuilding their team has been the influx of youth. Smith is 24 years old and is under contact until 2025, and Brown is 25 and will be an Eagle throughout 2026.
With the help of quarterback Jalen Hurts, the tree known as “The Batman’s”, have found consistency, accuracy, and tremendous chemistry on and off of the field. Hurts has connected with Smith 16 times for at least 20 yards, and Brown adds another 20. No other team in the league has two receivers with 16 or more 20-yard catches this season.
With two games remaining, it’s likely Nick Sirianni could sit out Smith and Brown for the team’s Week 18 game in preparation for the playoffs. If that’s the case, we’ll see what Sunday brings when the Eagles take on the New Orleans Saints. Kickoff is at 1 PM on January 1.
