What happened: Steve Smith Sr. and James Palmer went to the tape on DeVonta Smith, framing the question not as whether he is good but whether he is ready to dominate as a true volume-heavy alpha receiver. Their breakdown argues the film supports the case for Smith carrying a larger share of the passing game.

Why it matters: The conversation matters because of how much target volume could now run through Smith following A.J. Brown's departure. Whether Smith can absorb a heavier role as the clear No. 1 option sets the ceiling for the offense heading into 2026.

What to watch: Watch whether Smith's target share and route usage expand once the 2026 season gets underway, the clearest sign of whether the alpha-role projection holds.