DeVonta Smith Claims Status as Greatest College Football Receiver Ever

Amite City, Louisiana — DeVonta Smith, the standout wide receiver of the Philadelphia Eagles and 2020 Heisman Trophy winner, boldly claimed his status as the greatest wide receiver in college football history during an appearance on the podcast “7 PM in Brooklyn with Carmelo Anthony” on March 23, 2025.

Smith, a former Alabama star, stated, “I’d say yeah,” when asked if he believes he is the best ever. He acknowledged the talent of other receivers, citing former teammates Julio Jones and Amari Cooper as examples of players who have made significant impacts in college football. “You got to have respect for them,” he said, recognizing their contributions to the game.

In his senior season at Alabama, Smith posted remarkable statistics, finishing with 117 receptions, 1,856 yards, and 23 touchdowns, setting SEC single-season records for both yards and touchdowns. His contributions were pivotal in Alabama’s perfect 13-0 season, culminating in a national championship victory. Smith’s dominance earned him several prestigious awards, including the Heisman Trophy, Maxwell Award, Walter Camp Award, and Biletnikoff Award.

Smith’s history in college football is distinguished; he became one of only four wide receivers to ever win the Heisman, joining Tim Brown, Desmond Howard, and most recently, Travis Hunter. Smith argued, “Out of those four, I’m number one,” reaffirming his self-assessment.

Reflecting on the legacies of other receivers, Smith acknowledged their influence on his career. “I was cooking, but they were cooking too,” he emphasized, underlining the competitive nature of the sport.

Over his four-year college career, Smith amassed a total of 3,965 receiving yards and 46 touchdowns, solidifying his place in Alabama history as one of its top receivers. He concluded his college journey as the SEC record holder for receiving yards and touchdowns, a testimony to his skill and consistency on the field.

Smith’s collegiate journey began with humble beginnings as a five-star recruit from Louisiana. As a freshman, he immediately made an impact by scoring the game-winning touchdown in the 2018 national championship game against Georgia. His performance consistently improved, ultimately leading to record-breaking seasons.

His legacy at Alabama is characterized by high achievements; he is remembered as a unanimous All-American and has earned acclaim as the SEC Offensive Player of the Year. Smith’s nickname, the “Slim Reaper,” reflects his agile playing style and ability to dominate defenders.

Following his successful college career, Smith was selected 10th overall in the 2021 NFL Draft by the Philadelphia Eagles. His transition to professional football has been marked by continued success, including significant receiving achievements in his first four seasons.

While debates about Smith’s claim may persist, his extraordinary college career leaves little doubt regarding his status as one of the finest to have ever played the position.