The Philadelphia Eagles might need secured a 22-16 win towards the Carolina Panthers in Week 14, however the efficiency was removed from spectacular.
Jalen Hurts’ modest 108-yard passing efficiency, albeit with two touchdowns, sparked rapid scrutiny.
A.J. Brown didn’t maintain again, calling out the passing sport’s shortcomings in a postgame critique that reverberated by means of the staff all week.
Enter former NFL quarterback Alex Smith, who stepped into the brewing controversy with a nuanced perspective that caught loads of consideration.
Whereas many, together with Eagles defensive lineman Brandon Graham, seen Brown’s feedback as a possible shot at Hurts, Smith noticed issues otherwise.
“[Brown] bought requested a query on what they wanted to work on postgame, and he answered it truthfully and he answered it accurately — passing sport. The passing sport was abysmal, and I don’t assume that is a few prima donna receiver that’s upset about not getting the soccer,” Smith emphasised on Sunday NFL Countdown.
Alex Smith involves the protection of AJ Brown:
“He bought requested a query on what they wanted to work on postgame, and he answered it truthfully and accurately — passing sport. The passing sport was abysmal, and I do not assume that is a few prima donna receiver…” pic.twitter.com/Ww6peU2fun
— Terrible Saying (@awfulannouncing) December 15, 2024
Smith’s evaluation went deeper, stating particular moments the place Hurts missed essential alternatives.
He additional broke down performs that highlighted the quarterback’s hesitation.
“Time and time once more, AJ Brown was open on this sport, he’s the first receiver on this offense, he had a one-on-one and so they didn’t get the ball to him,” Smith famous.
The criticism was pointed and private.
Smith accused Hurts of being overly cautious, describing his enjoying model as methodical and risk-averse.
He referred to as a few of Hurts’ missed connections “downright inexcusable,” stressing the significance of trusting reads and making decisive throws.
This isn’t nearly one sport or one receiver’s frustration.
Smith’s breakdown suggests a extra systemic difficulty with the Eagles’ offensive method.
His candid evaluation implies that the staff’s playoff hopes could possibly be in jeopardy if Hurts doesn’t adapt and change into extra aggressive.
NEXT: Eagles Participant Apologized To Workforce For Stirring Up Drama