Ainias Smith wasn’t a first-round pick, and as the Eagles sit about a week away from kicking off training camp, the former Texas A&M star is facing a crucial preseason that could determine his NFL future.
Smith spent the off-season training and learning from Philadelphia’s All-Pro wide receiver, A.J. Brown, with the two players running the steps at Lincoln Financial Field. Brown was giving the versatile pass catcher from Texas A&M advice on “visualizing your goals’ and “manifesting your success.” Brown’s words are powerful and can resonate with anyone regardless of what phase of life you’re currently embarking on.
A Dulles High School graduate, the former Texas A&M standout recently held a youth football showcase and symposium at Freedom Center Church in Missouri City.
During the event, Smith told Aaron Wilson of KPRC 2 in Houston that he’s “excited, explosive, and lighter,’ heading into year two.
“Since last year, I really didn’t have the full offseason, but now I feel real good this year, I’m excited,” said Smith, who caught seven passes for 41 yards and one touchdown in seven games and one start as a rookie with two carries for six yards. “I’m explosive. I’m lighter than I was last year, so I’m excited for sure. I lost a few pounds, for sure.”
Eagles second-year pass rusher Jalyx Hunt was in attendance, as Smith was joined by several former Aggies, including New England Patriots starting offensive guard Layden Robinson, Las Vegas Raiders running back Isaiah Spiller, San Antonio Brahmas quarterback Kellen Mond, Houston Roughnecks all-league safety Leon O’Neal, and Green Bay Packers offensive lineman Brant Banks.
Drafted in the fifth round last year, Smith caught four passes for 35 yards and a touchdown when the team rested its primary starters in Week 18. Still, he was a non-factor on offense during his previous six appearances in the regular season and spent most of the season on the PUP list and injured reserve. He’ll enter 2025 looking to prove he can contribute to the passing game and special teams.
This article originally appeared on Eagles Wire: Eagles’ WR Ainias Smith looking for a breakout season in Year 2
