As the 2026 fantasy football season approaches, analysts are turning their attention to the Philadelphia Eagles' receiving corps, where DeVonta Smith is emerging as a central figure.
Smith, who has posted a career PFF grade of 89.4 and sits 20th among wide receivers over the past five seasons, is now the team's primary target after the departure of A.J. Brown.
His route efficiency remains elite; he averaged 2.95 yards per route run out wide last season, tying him for third best at the position, and his target rate of 20.5% ranks among the league’s lowest, indicating he gets the ball when it matters.
Elevated Target Rate Signals Upside
With the Eagles having traded away Brown and lost Jahan Dotson, the receiving group has been reshaped by the addition of Makai Lemon, Hollywood Brown, Dontayvion Wicks and rookie Jaxon Smith‑Njigba. This turnover creates an opening for Smith to see a higher volume of passes.
Early projections suggest his target rate could climb, boosting his fantasy points per game and giving him a safer floor as a late‑round pick.
Other sleepers such as Puka Nacua and Parker Washington are also being monitored, but Smith’s combination of experience and increased opportunity makes him the most compelling story.