How is Jalen Hurts going to perform when he’s missing one half of one of the NFL’s top wide receiver duos in 2026? Soon, the NFL will see, as the Philadelphia Eagles feel like they have something in one of their new additions this offseason.
Technically, AJ Brown’s replacement will be DeVonta Smith. After sending the All-Pro pass-catcher to the New England Patriots, the Eagles are simply tabbing Smith as the No. 1 target on the field for Hurts.
The hope for the Eagles was that at least one of three new additions could solidify themselves as the surefire No. 2 this summer. Between Dontayvion Wicks, Makai Lemon, and Hollywood Brown, there’s a clear answer: Wicks.
Jalen Hurts Fueled Major Hype Around New Eagles Weapon
GettyPHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA – JUNE 9: Dontayvion Wicks #13 of the Philadelphia Eagles runs with the ball during mandatory minicamp at Jefferson Health Training Complex on June 9, 2026 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Mitchell Leff/Getty Images)
Following the Wednesday, August 5 practice session, Jalen Hurts had plenty of praise for Wicks based on his performance and the work ethic he has put on display so far.
âHeâs got great work ethic. Heâs got great hunger. In the summertime, he was beating down the door, trying to spend time and just work,” Hurts told reporters.
“He can attack the ball. You can see who has that anger to them. Who has a little bit of rage in them. For the best. Heâs got it. Thatâs exciting to see. He runs great routes. Itâll be exciting to see him work this season with the aggression that he has.”
Dontayvion Wicks Before Landing With The Eagles
GettyGREEN BAY, WISCONSIN – OCTOBER 20: Dontayvion Wicks #13 of the Green Bay Packers catches a touchdown during the second quarter against the Houston Texans at Lambeau Field on October 20, 2024 in Green Bay, Wisconsin. (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images)
The 25-year-old wide receiver entered the NFL out of Virginia in 2023. He was a fifth-round pick for the Green Bay Packers.
As a rookie, Wicks caught 39 passes for 581 yards and four touchdowns in 15 games. During his second season, the veteran wide receiver appeared in 17 games. He reeled in 39 catches for 415 yards and five scores.
GettyGREEN BAY, WISCONSIN – NOVEMBER 28: Dontayvion Wicks #13 of the Green Bay Packers carries the ball against the Miami Dolphins during the second half of the game at Lambeau Field on November 28, 2024 in Green Bay, Wisconsin. (Photo by John Fisher/Getty Images)
Last year, Wicks played in just 14 games, but started a career-high seven matchups. He caught 30 passes for 332 yards and two touchdowns. It was a statistical regression for Wicks in every way during year three.
The Packers sent Wicks to the Eagles back in April, landing a 2026 fifth-round pick and a 2027 sixth-round pick. Upon his arrival, Wicks signed a one-year extension. It wasn’t a major investment, but so far, the bet seems to be paying off.
As Jalen Hurts and the Eagles’ offense look to bounce back after losing one of their top weapons, Wicks is clearly embracing the challenge.
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