In the fast-paced world of American football, leadership is key on and off the field. Players take pride in being named team captains, wearing the prestigious “C” on their jerseys as a badge of honor. However, for Eagles receiver DeVonta Smith, the 2024 season brings a different story.
Last year, Smith donned the captain’s jersey proudly, but this year, things have taken a different turn. He has been omitted from the recently announced roster of team captains for 2024. Instead, the seven chosen leaders for the upcoming season are receiver A.J. Brown, kicker Jake Elliott, defensive end Brandon Graham, quarterback Jalen Hurts, tackle Lane Johnson, tackle Jordan Mailata, and cornerback Darius Slay.
The decision to exclude Smith sparked curiosity among fans and analysts alike. When asked about this change, coach Nick Sirianni shed some light on the matter. “There were a lot of guys that got votes,” Sirianni explained. “I had to go with the guys that got the most votes there. Just because DeVonta didn’t have as many votes as some of the other guys does not mean he’s not still a leader on this football team.”
Sirianni emphasized that leadership is not solely defined by the captain’s designation. Many players, like Saquon Barkley and Chauncey Gardner-Johnson, play pivotal leadership roles despite not having the captaincy title. Last year, the Eagles had an abundance of captains, a fact that Sirianni acknowledged. “Where do you cut it off? It’s always a tricky thing. There are a lot of guys deserving of it.”
In a surprising twist, Jordan Mailata was named as a new team captain for 2024, joining the ranks of the returning leaders. However, stalwarts like center Jason Kelce and defensive tackle Fletcher Cox, who were captains in 2023, have since retired, paving the way for fresh faces to take on leadership roles.
As the Eagles gear up for the 2024 season, the dynamics of leadership within the team have evolved. While Smith may no longer wear the captain’s badge, his impact on the team remains undeniable. In the world of football, true leadership transcends titles, as the heart and dedication of players like Smith shape the team’s success both on and off the field.
