NFL Update: DeVonta Smith’s Brutal Hit Overshadows Eagles’ Victory

The third week of the NFL season was marked by a chilling event that has left fans talking and players shaken. DeVonta Smith, the Philadelphia Eagles’ wide receiver, suffered a terrifying hit during a game against the New Orleans Saints, prompting both outrage and concern across the league.

In a tightly contested matchup, the Eagles managed to secure a hard-fought victory with a score of 15-12. However, the thrill of winning quickly diminished as fans were left reeling from the brutal impact that Smith endured on the field.

DeVonta Smith during the game against the Saints.

A Hit that Shook the Eagles

The hit in question came from Saints defender Khristian Boyd, who collided with Smith in a play that was legal, yet dangerously close to being a flagrant foul. With Smith already pushed backwards by two other defenders, Boyd’s late hit left him unconscious on the turf, resulting in a concussion that kept him off the practice field this week. After thorough analysis, the NFL handed Boyd a fine of $4,600, marking his first disciplinary action as a rookie.

Although the tackle was executed within the rules, many players and fans expressed their disgust over the unnecessary nature of the hit. Even after the play was deemed stopped, Boyd lunged at Smith, striking him helmet-to-helmet and making contact in the neck area.

Players React with Anger and Concern

C.J. Gardner-Johnson, a safety for the Eagles, was vocal post-game, stating, > “Man, that was the grossest thing I’ve ever seen in football.” He, alongside teammates such as Jordan Mailata and Cam Jurgens, rallied around Smith, expressing hope for his swift recovery.

Mailata remarked, “Do I believe it was a dirty hit? Definitely. I just hope Smitty is okay.” Smith’s teammates gathered around him for support as he lay on the ground, illustrating the camaraderie within the Eagles’ locker room.

Eagles players show support for DeVonta Smith after the hit.

Social media exploded with reactions from fans, many condemning the play as unacceptable. Comments such as, “A sad hit, but nothing surprises me with the Saints anymore,” echoed through platforms, further fueling the debate on player safety in the league. Some even suggested that a return to the notorious Bountygate mentality might be resurfacing in New Orleans.

The Aftermath: A Disturbing Video

In a twist that added fuel to the fire, a video surfaced showing Payton Turner, another player involved in the tackle, apparently spitting on the downed Smith. One user exclaimed, “A disgusting team,” echoing many fans’ frustrations with the Saints’ conduct overall. Calls for punishment against Turner have gained momentum, with fans advocating for a suspension due to his actions.

As discussions continue about Boyd’s hit and the ongoing controversy, the focus now shifts to DeVonta Smith and his potential recovery timeline. Coach Nick Sirianni stated, “I don’t know yet. I haven’t had contact with the guys, but I know he was able to stand on his own.” He remained optimistic about Smith’s resilience: “DeVonta is one of the toughest guys I know. If he could’ve gotten back on the field, he would have.”

Head Coach Nick Sirianni discussing player safety and Smith’s injury.

What Lies Ahead for Smith and the Eagles

With Smith’s absence imminent, the Eagles are faced with the challenge of facing the Tampa Bay Buccaneers without one of their star receivers. His status remains uncertain, adding pressure to the Eagles’ offensive strategies moving forward.

The extent of any further disciplinary action against Boyd or Turner is yet to be determined as the league reviews the footage. However, it is clear that the outrage over player safety continues to resonate within the NFL community as players advocate for better protections on the field.

As the season unfolds, all eyes will be on the Eagles and the fate of DeVonta Smith, with fans and analysts alike hoping for a swift and safe return to action for one of the league’s brightest young talents.

Conclusion

The NFL continues to grapple with player safety amidst fierce competition, and the incident involving DeVonta Smith serves as a stark reminder of the risks athletes face. As we look forward to more games, discussions around safety and respect on the field remain crucial in the pursuit of not just victory, but the wellbeing of every player in the league.