DeVonta Smith raises Nick Sirianni's offensive woes as Jalen Hurts stumbles early

Nick Sirianni knows Eagles training camp feels like a slow-pitch softball game in July heat right now. You swing easy, loosen up, nothing counts yet. But even in these lazy days, a sudden twinge can ruin the whole season. That familiar buzz at NovaCare Complex? It’s missing a keynote today.

Something vital isn't clicking. The rhythm feels off-kilter. Much like a drummer dropping a beat mid-song. The air holds a tension unexpected this early. All eyes track the absent presence, the missing piece that makes this offensive engine purr.

Stinging Early Hiccups

The Eagles announced Monday that star receiver DeVonta Smith is out with back tightness. It’s the first hiccup for the durable "Slim Reaper" this year. Smith, a rock playing 72 of 77 games since 2021, leaves a gaping hole. Jalen Hurts, meanwhile, looks more like a rookie than a reigning champ.

Observers noted early camp struggles. Missed throws and frustration etched on his face. "On 3rd-and-10, Jalen Hurts heaved it deep to Brown down the right sideline for a gain of 30 or so yards... Overall, it wasn't Hurts' sharpest day," reported Dave Zangaro. He even hit practice equipment with one errant pass.

"He missed a few throws and even threw one pass into the arms of a new piece of equipment this year that get held up by staffers at the line of scrimmage during 7-on-7s," Zangaro added. And suddenly, that relaxed summer vibe feels miles away. A.J. Brown shines, crisp and ready. But Hurts needs his other lethal weapon.

Smith isn't just another target. He's Hurts' security blanket, converting 68 catches for 833 yards and 8 TDs last year. His absence throws timing off. Furthermore, Hurts is adjusting to new play-caller Kevin Patullo. The pressure simmers beneath the July sun.

Sirianni's Test Begins

This is where Sirianni earns his stripes. The head coach faces his first significant 2024 puzzle. How does he keep Hurts sharp without Smith? How does he manage reps for Jahan Dotson and others stepping up? 

Sirianni emphasized mental reps Monday: "We have to be creative... It’s our job to make sure anybody who misses time recoups those reps somehow." His offensive vision hinges on smooth execution. Without Smith, that vision gets blurry. Can Sirianni quickly find the focus?

Hurts remains outwardly confident, especially praising Patullo: "He's been very pointed and clear and has been leading with great conviction." That trust is crucial. However, actions speak louder. Hurts must rediscover his MVP-caliber rhythm, fast. Every wobble now fuels doubt. The Birds' high-flying attack needs both its pilots fully functional. Patullo’s new voice in Hurts' helmet adds another layer to master.

The defensive line of Vic Fangio got a boost with Jalen Carter's return. Yet, the offense sputters. Sirianni’s challenge is multi-faceted: nurse Smith back carefully, rebuild Hurts’ confidence, and integrate Patullo seamlessly.

Camp adversity isn't new for Hurts. He thrives on proving doubters wrong. But Nick Sirianni must steer this ship through the choppy waters. And the path back to February glory looks a little steeper today.