A.J. Brown Praised as 'Great Leader' by Eagles' DeVonta Smith, 'He Wants What's Best'

Philadelphia Eagles wide receiver DeVonta Smith complimented teammate A.J. Brown's leadership on Friday.

"He's a great leader. ...He wants what's best for the team," Smith said, per Zach Berman of The Athletic. "Things aren't necessarily going our way offensively. I don't think nothing wrong with him wanting better in that situation. I certainly feel the same way. Offensively, we need to be better."

Brown hasn't started the 2025 season on a high note, as he's averaging a career-low 37.8 receiving yards per game through four weeks. The three-time Pro Bowler has also scored just one touchdown.

After Brown was held to just two catches for seven yards on nine targets during Philadelphia's 31-25 win over the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in Week 4, he posted a cryptic message on social media.

He shared an image that read: "If you're not welcomed, not listened to, quietly withdraw. Don't make a scene. Shrug your shoulders and be on your way."

Brown later clarified the post, explaining that it wasn't directed at Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts or anyone else with the team.

"Obviously, Sunday after the game I let my frustrations boil over," Brown told reporters Wednesday. "I didn't speak to the media. ... My message truly wasn't directed at anyone in the building. Not my coaches, not my quarterback, general manager, nobody. I take full accountability."

While the Eagles are coming off a Super Bowl title and currently sit at 4-0 in 2025, their passing attack hasn't met expectations to open the season. Philadelphia is averaging a mere 138.0 yards per game through the air, which ranks No. 31 among all NFL teams.

Smith's production has also dipped, as his averages of 39.5 receiving yards per game and 9.3 yards per reception are career-low marks. He's found the end zone once this year after recording at least seven touchdown catches in each of the past three seasons.

As the Eagles attempt to get their pass game back on track, Smith has continued to express his support for Brown.