New Orleans, LA — Philadelphia Eagles wide receiver DeVonta Smith is on the brink of achieving a lifelong dream as he prepares to compete for a Super Bowl title in his home state of Louisiana. The Eagles will face off against the Kansas City Chiefs tonight at Caesars Superdome in New Orleans, the home of the Saints giving Smith the rare opportunity to chase a championship in front of family and friends.
For the Amite City native, the experience is more than just a homecoming—it’s a moment of gratitude.
“I’m just thankful,” Smith said. “A lot of guys play in this league for years and never get this opportunity. I’m not taking it for granted. It’s tough to get here… Plus, I get some good home-cooked meals, and I don’t have to worry about flights or hotels.”
Smith’s football journey began at Amite High Magnet School, where he helped lead his team to a 3A state championship appearance in his senior year. His standout performance earned him the Most Outstanding Player award. A multi-sport athlete, he also competed in track and basketball before taking his talents to the University of Alabama, where he built an illustrious career.
The 26-year-old’s résumé speaks for itself. A former Heisman Trophy winner, Smith has amassed numerous accolades, including the Maxwell, Walter Camp, Fred Biletnikoff, and AP College Player of the Year awards. He has won championships at both the high school and collegiate levels and now has his sights set on adding a Super Bowl ring to his collection.
Despite his success, Smith acknowledges that his journey hasn’t been without challenges.
“Growing up in a small town, you see both the good and the bad,” Smith reflected. “You have to choose your path and live with your decisions. I didn’t always do everything right, but those experiences shaped me. It wasn’t easy. I faced adversity, but sometimes, as a kid, you have to learn the hard way.”
Smith, a two-time All-American, is making his second Super Bowl appearance in three seasons, hoping for a different outcome this time. The Eagles fell to the Chiefs in Super Bowl LVII in 2023, but a victory on Sunday would make Smith just the fifth player in history to win a Heisman Trophy, a college national championship, and a Super Bowl.
Kickoff is set for 6:30 p.m. ET on Sunday, February 9, with the game airing on Fox and streaming on Tubi.
