BREAKOUT: DeVonta Smith IS READY to be the Philadelphia Eagles WR1 in 2026!

Locked On Eagles - Daily Podcast On The Philadelphia Eagles28mMay 4, 2026

Get the full intelligence

Search transcripts, export clips, track mentions, and explore all topics from “BREAKOUT: DeVonta Smith IS READY to be the Philadelphia Eagles WR1 in 2026!” inside PodZeus.

AI-Generated Summary

In this episode of Locked On Eagles, host Louis DiBiase argues that Devontae Smith is poised to become the Philadelphia Eagles' primary wide receiver in 2026 following the likely trade of A.J. Brown. DiBiase highlights Smith's elite route-running, contested catch ability, and versatility, citing standout performances in college (including a 12-catch, 215-yard, 3-TD first half in the 2021 national championship) and key playoff outings when Brown was sidelined. He believes Smith’s 2026 season could mark a breakout moment, potentially cementing his legacy as the greatest Eagles receiver of all time. The analysis also examines Saquon Barkley’s potential bounce-back year after a down 2025, emphasizing his durability and historical precedent for running backs recovering from high-usage seasons. DiBiase advocates for more creative usage of Barkley in the passing game, including wheel routes and screens. Finally, Dallas Goddard is positioned as a crucial veteran leader in 2026, despite the drafting of Eli Stowers, due to his red zone prowess, chemistry with Jalen Hurts, and need to improve as a blocker in the new offensive scheme. The episode concludes with optimism that the Eagles’ 'big three'—Smith, Barkley, and Goddard—can carry the offense in Brown’s absence. Key takeaways include: Devontae Smith has the skillset and proven track record to be the Eagles’ WR1; Saquon Barkley’s 2026 season could be a rebound year with better scheme utilization; Dallas Goddard remains essential as both a red zone weapon and mentor; the offense should balance run and pass to protect Saquon; and the Eagles’ future success hinges on their core stars stepping up rather than relying solely on new role players.

Key Takeaways
1

Devontae Smith has the elite skillset and proven playoff performance to become the Eagles' WR1 in 2026.

2

Saquon Barkley is expected to bounce back in 2026 with improved offensive scheme and better run-blocking support.

3

Dallas Goddard remains vital in 2026 as a red zone threat, mentor, and complete tight end despite Eli Stowers' arrival.

4

The Eagles' offense should balance run and pass to maximize Saquon’s longevity and effectiveness.

5

The team’s success in 2026 will depend more on the big three stepping up than on new role players replacing A.J. Brown.

…and 3 more takeaways available in PodZeus

Chapters
0:00
10 min

Devontae Smith: The New Eagles WR1 in 2026

Devontae Smith had 12 catches in the first half of the national championship against a good Ohio State football team, 215 yards and three touchdowns. That's in the first half of a national title when Jalen Waddell is not playing.

Highlight
10:00
10 min

Saquon Barkley: Can He Bounce Back in 2026?

DiBiase analyzes Saquon Barkley’s 2025 season and argues that despite a down year, he remains the heart of the Eagles' offense. He draws historical parallels to other elite running backs who rebounded after historic seasons and emphasizes the need for better offensive balance and creative passing game usage to help Saquon thrive in 2026.

20:00
10 min

Dallas Goddard: The Veteran Anchor in 2026

Dallas Goddard is still your only complete do-it-all number one tight end.

Highlight
30:00
3 min

The Big Three: Smith, Barkley, Goddard

DiBiase concludes by reinforcing that the Eagles’ success in 2026 will depend on the core trio—Devontae Smith, Saquon Barkley, and Dallas Goddard—stepping up, not on new role players replacing A.J. Brown. He emphasizes that the stars must carry the load in the passing and running games.

High-Impact Quotes
Devontae Smith had 12 catches in the first half of the national championship against a good Ohio State football team, 215 yards and three touchdowns. That's in the first half of a national title when Jalen Waddell is not playing.
Louis DiBiase6:06
Viral: 90.0
Dallas Goddard is still your only complete do-it-all number one tight end.
Louis DiBiase29:10
Viral: 85.0
I think before you know it, give it a year or two. He's going to jump AJ. I think he could jump Harold Carmichael, Terrell Owens, Mike Quick, Deshaun Jackson and be up there as maybe the number one guy of all time at this position.
Louis DiBiase9:56
Viral: 80.0
Speakers

Host

Louis DiBiase
Topics Discussed
Devontae Smith's Rise to WR195%Saquon Barkley's 2026 Outlook85%Dallas Goddard's Role in 202680%Eagles' Offensive Scheme Evolution75%A.J. Brown Trade Implications70%Tight End Development and Depth65%Playoff Performance and Clutch Play60%Running Back Usage and Longevity55%
People & Brands

Devontae Smith

person

28xPositive

Saquon Barkley

person

18xPositive

Dallas Goddard

person

16xPositive

A.J. Brown

person

15xNeutral

Jalen Hurts

person

12xPositive

Eli Stowers

person

8xPositive

Makai Lemon

person

4xPositive

Zach Ertz

person

2xPositive

Hollywood Brown

person

2xNeutral

Dontavian Wicks

person

2xNeutral

Get the full intelligence

Search transcripts, export clips, track mentions, and explore all topics from “BREAKOUT: DeVonta Smith IS READY to be the Philadelphia Eagles WR1 in 2026!” inside PodZeus.

Start discovering podcast insights today

Start with a 7-day trial and explore a growing catalog of popular podcasts. No credit card required.

No credit card required • 7-day trial • Cancel anytime